Honoring the Spirit of Manhae: Youth Learn the True Meaning of Freedom and Peace

A Voice from History Echoes Today

On August 2, 2025, a powerful message from Korea’s past found new life in the hearts of young people. At the Manhae Memorial Hall in Gwangju, South Korea, a special history lecture organized by the International Peace Youth Group (IPYG) and the “Together” Campaign gathered over 35 youth and community leaders to reflect on the life and philosophy of Manhae Han Yong-un—a revered independence activist, Buddhist monk, and poet.

Led by Jeon Bo-sam, Director of the Manhae Memorial Hall, the lecture carried the theme: “The Path of Independence Fighters, Peace in Our Time.” But this was no ordinary history lesson. It was a call to action—a stirring reminder that peace and freedom are not inherited; they must be consciously chosen, protected, and passed on.

The Peace Philosophy of Manhae

Jeon’s lecture deeply resonated with the audience as he explored Manhae’s view that “true peace means respect for not only oneself, but also for others.” Unlike today’s society, which often celebrates individualism at the cost of community, Manhae emphasized that peace and freedom are not privileges but moral obligations.

Quoting Manhae’s writings from prison during the Japanese occupation, Jeon read:

“Freedom is the life of all things, and peace is the happiness of life… To gain freedom, one must value life like a strand of hair, and to keep peace, one must accept sacrifice. This is not only a right but a duty.”

These were not just poetic ideals. Manhae lived by them—even serving the longest sentence among the 33 independence movement leaders after the March 1st Movement, refusing early release unlike others. When asked if his prison time was like hell, he famously replied, “No, I have been to paradise.”

Such conviction in the face of suffering moved many young attendees, making history personal and real.

Peace Is the Inheritance of the Brave

More than a reflection on the past, the event aimed to empower today’s youth to shape the future. “Our generation must carry on the spirit of those who sacrificed for peace,” said Han Ji-won, deputy team leader of IPYG Global Unit 01. “History must not repeat itself. Through learning, we gain the wisdom to break the cycle.”

Distinguished guests—including members of the city council, artists, and community leaders—echoed this sentiment. They affirmed that while generational differences exist, peace can be the unifying goal that binds all.

IPYG and the Together Campaign: Peace in Action

This event is part of a broader peace initiative led by IPYG, the youth arm of HWPL (Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light). Since 2013, IPYG has worked with over 1,000 youth organizations across 128 countries, encouraging youth-led action for peace.

The “Together Campaign,” a national peace movement, connects generations, cultures, and communities under four goals: connecting generations, cultures, the future, and the nation. It aims to resolve societal conflicts and promote sustainable development—starting from historical understanding and civic dialogue.

A Legacy That Lives On

The lecture at the Manhae Memorial Hall was more than a history lesson. It was a transmission of spirit—a reminder that peace and freedom were born of sacrifice, and must be honored with responsibility.

In a world where the value of freedom is sometimes taken for granted, events like this help awaken a new generation to its role in protecting and passing on this precious legacy.

Source: https://vo.la/vNoeij