Patriot Lee Seok-gyu, who dedicated his life to independence, laid to rest at 100

Patriot Lee Seok-gyu, who devoted his youth to Korea's independence movement, was laid to rest on August 15, Liberation Day, at the age of 100. Lee passed away on August 13 while receiving treatment for deteriorating health.

Born in Wanju County, Jeollabuk-do, in 1926, Lee founded the 'Mudeung Reading Club' with 17 fellow students from Gwangju Teachers College in March 1943. The club's manifesto included preparing for an armed uprising upon Allied forces' landing, and its members met twice monthly to work towards national independence and establish a correct historical perspective.

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The most rewarding moment of my life was liberation.

Lee also served as a secret contact for the provisional government, relaying orders to Mudeung Reading Club members. His activities were exposed in 1945, leading to his arrest and imprisonment. In recognition of his patriotic contributions, the South Korean government awarded him a presidential commendation in 2010.

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Now, we, the descendants, will carry on the spirit of the Patriot and firmly uphold the identity of the Republic of Korea.

The funeral ceremony, held at the Jeollabuk-do Provincial Office in Jeonju, was attended by approximately 250 people, including family, Minister of Patriots and Veterans Affairs Kwon Eul, and Governor Lee Won-taek. Kim Jin, vice chairman of the Korean Liberation Association, eulogized Lee, stating, "I express my deep condolences to Patriot Lee Seok-gyu, who said the most rewarding moment of his life was liberation." Governor Lee Won-taek also pledged to pass on Lee's patriotic spirit to future generations.

Following the ceremony, Lee Seok-gyu's remains were interred at the National Daejeon Cemetery.

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We will do our best to ensure that the patriotic spirit and noble will left by the Patriot are passed on to future generations, and we hope you now lay down your heavy burden and rest in peace in the embrace of your homeland.