Memorial of Remembrance – The Spirit of Freedom

On September 13, 2026, a delegation from Astana International University, led by Rector A. B. Myrzagaliyeva, visited one of the most significant sites of memory for the Korean people– Independence Hall of Korea, located in Cheonan, Chungcheongnam-do Province, South Korea.

Independence Hall is far more than a museum. It is the living memory of a nation that managed to preserve its dignity, language, culture, and national identity. Within its walls, the pain of loss merges with the joy of liberation, sorrow for the past with pride in the country, and the courage of ancestors with the hope of future generations.

From 1910 until the end of World War II, Korea was under Japanese occupation. This prolonged and tragic period left a deep mark on the destiny of the nation and the memory of its people. Construction of the Independence Hall of Korea took place in the 1980s, and its grand opening was held on August 15, 1987– the day the Korean people annually celebrate Liberation Day.

For the AIU delegation, visiting Independence Hall was not only an introduction to Korean history, but also a moment of deep reflection on the value of freedom, the strength of national unity, and the responsibility each generation bears toward the past and the future. History lives on as long as it is remembered. A state preserves its spiritual foundation as long as it honors those who fought for its freedom. By passing this memory down to the younger generation, a nation preserves not just the artifacts of bygone eras, but itself– its name, its language, and its right to look confidently into the future.

Members of the delegation were particularly impressed by the majestic Monument to the Nation, the Grand Hall of the Nation, the "Indomitable Koreans" sculpture, as well as the models of dolmens and Bronze Age megalithic stone tombs.

The picturesque surrounding natural landscape adds profound symbolism to Independence Hall. The spacious grounds are immersed in greenery, trees, and flowering plants that fill the air with a remarkable sense of freshness, harmony, and renewal. Against the backdrop of stories depicting the arduous struggle of the Korean people, this flourishing nature feels like an extension of the museum's core philosophy: even after the most tragic trials, life is reborn, and the memory of the past becomes the foundation of faith in a peaceful and free future. The finishing touch to this evocative image is the mugunghwa– the hibiscus flower – found throughout the grounds, symbolizing Korea's unyielding resilience, spiritual strength, and unfading beauty.

Astana International University expresses its sincere gratitude to Mr. Kim Hyung-sik, a member of the founding board of the Independence Hall of Korea, for his exceptionally warm welcome, insightful tour, and the opportunity to view the museum’s unique exhibits. The fruitful dialogue regarding the role of historical memory in preserving national identity, native language, folklore, and cultural uniqueness was of particular value.

The university extends special thanks to Professor Eugene Lee for the excellent organization of the visit, comprehensive support provided to the delegation, and high professionalism in translation.

This day will remain in the memories of the delegation members as an encounter with a history that speaks not only of the past. It serves as a reminder to us all that independence is an invaluable legacy won by the courage of our ancestors, and a great responsibility that we must carefully pass on to future generations.