This message was delivered during a ceremony commemorating the 55th anniversary of the 'August 10 Seongnam (Gwangju Dae-dan-ji) Uprising,' reflecting on the struggles for citizens' rights and the spirit of solidarity that will continue to propel Seongnam's development.
Mayor Shin expressed these sentiments at a ceremony held in the city hall lobby to honor the historical significance of the uprising that took place on August 10, 1971.
The event aimed to revisit the historical context of the uprising and reaffirm Seongnam's identity. It featured performances by the Seongnam City Traditional Music Orchestra, the City Choir, and the Dance JAI Arts Group, along with poetry readings and demonstrations of calligraphy.
Additionally, a video documenting the uprising and a photo exhibition were organized to allow citizens to reflect on Seongnam's past 55 years ago. The photo exhibition will continue at the Seongnam Cultural Center until August 14.
The August 10 Seongnam (Gwangju Dae-dan-ji) Uprising was a struggle for survival initiated by over 50,000 residents forcibly relocated from unlicensed housing in Seoul to the current districts of Sujeong-gu and Jungwon-gu in Seongnam. They demanded improvements to their poor living conditions and the establishment of basic means of livelihood.
The collective demands and resistance of the residents marked a significant turning point that led to Seongnam's elevation to city status on July 1, 1973.
Recognized as one of the first urban poor struggles after liberation, the August 10 Uprising has become a defining event that illustrates Seongnam's urban identity and historical roots.
On this 55th anniversary, there is a growing sentiment in the community to view the August 10 Uprising not merely as a historical event but as a testament to the solidarity and challenges faced by citizens that shaped present-day Seongnam.
For those who experienced the uprising firsthand or shared memories through parents and neighbors, the ceremony served as a reminder that Seongnam is not just a planned city but one built by citizens overcoming difficult circumstances.
There is also a consensus in the community that the historical significance of the uprising should be shared with future generations.
As Seongnam has evolved from a struggle for citizens' rights to a city with a foundation in advanced industries, including the Pangyo Techno Valley, it is essential to carry forward the spirit of solidarity and challenge demonstrated by citizens at that time into Seongnam's urban competitiveness and future development.
In December 2024, Seongnam City amended its ordinance to change the designation from 'Gwangju Dae-dan-ji Incident' to 'August 10 Seongnam (Gwangju Dae-dan-ji) Uprising,' clarifying its historical significance.
Mayor Shin Sang-jin remarked, "Seongnam has grown into a center of advanced industries and innovation based on the solidarity and spirit of challenge that began in Gwangju Dae-dan-ji."
He emphasized, "We will continue to build on this historical foundation to elevate Seongnam as a benchmark city in South Korea and open a new future for the city."
Mayor Shin also plans to continue uncovering records and testimonies related to the August 10 Uprising and expand historical and cultural content to share Seongnam's historical identity with citizens, connecting the spirit of the past to future urban development.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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