Back on April 18, 1960, 3 thousand Korea University (KU) students marched for freedom of speech. Since then, every year on April 18, KU students march from the front gate to the 4.19 National Cemetery. Large flags lead students until they arrive, just like the seniors struggled toward the freedom on behalf of the nations. The tradition continues and this year it will be done around April 18.

Hong Ji Hye (‘15, English Language Education)
 
   
 
I heard about 4.18 Gugukdaejangjung for the first time on Cyworld. At first, I was worried whether I could successfully finish the long marathon. At the same time, however, I was excited to take part in such a meaningful event with seniors and classmates. Before long, I realized that 4.18 Gugukdaejangjung has the significance of 4.18 movement. It is held for the memories of and to pay tribute to the spirits of our seniors who protested injustice, sacrificing themselves. After knowing that, now I am even more honored to participate in the event than before. 
 
Choi Yoon Bin (‘11, Media and Communication) 
 
   
 
I have no doubt that the most important part of 4.18 Gugukdaejangjung is to keep our seniors’ spirit alive. However, because of the extremely solemn mood, I am worried that there might not be any joy during the event. I believe that there are some values that can be delivered more effectively while enjoying the event. Of course, it is problematic to pursue only delight for an event which has historical meaning. I hope 4.18 Gugukdaejangjung becomes an event which is not just solemn, but also relaxing, so that students can participate in it more actively. Then, the original purpose—to honor the spirits of the 4.18 movement—will be achieved by many more students, much more effectively.
 
Jung Ki Wan ('13, Mechanical Engineering)
 
   
 
4.18 Gugukdaejangjung should be more solemn than any other KU events. We have to keep in mind that 4.18 Gugukdaejangjung is not a field trip or picnic to laugh and chat with friends. Rather, it is to show respect to the seniors. For example, the class that I took participated in the event somberly. On the day of 4.18 Gugukdaejangjung, we all wore black-colored T-shirts and dark colored pants. After arriving at 4.19 National Cemetery, we tried to stay calm and while eating lunch, we did not make a mess. Even if this might seem to be a trivial task, I believe that to have such a mind is not trivial but essential. I hope other KU students try to participate in the event more meaningfully as well.
 
Jang Young Jae ('14, Political Science and International Relations)
 
   
 
I believe that 4.18 Gugukdaejangjung is quite di f ferent from other demonstrations. It is non-violent street marching which only KU students participate in. 4.18 Gugukdaejangjung is an event that started and was inherited solely by the student society. Even though some people may say that it is a noisy and meaningless event, I believe it is not just a casual marathon, but rather a march which raises its voice in the society. If 4.18 Gugukdaejangjung is conducted just as a monumental event, its solemn meaning will fade and this will indeed be unfortunate.
 
 

 

 
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