Did you know that the Czechoslovak Legion provided weapons to Korean independence fighters? This year marks the 35th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Korea and the Czech Republic, but their ties actually go back more than 100 years. In 1920, on their way home, members of the Czechoslovak Legion handed over their weapons to Korean independence forces, those very weapons contributed to the victories at the Battles of Bongodong and Cheongsanri.

To honor this history, the international conference on “Korean Independence Movement and the Czechoslovak Legion” took place on October 25 with great success. Distinguished speakers included H.E. Ivan Jančárek, Ambassador of the Czech Republic to Korea; Professor Michal Řak (Czech Republic); Professor Sangwon Yoon (Chungbuk National University); and Dr. Ilwoong Moon (National Institute of Korean History), among others, who shed light on the deep historical solidarity between the two nations. Led by Professor Michal Řak, the Czech Legion delegation visited the Lee Hoe-Young Memorial Hall, signed an MOU to extend the loan of Czech weapon exhibits, and also delivered a lecture at Korea University.

This event was a meaningful occasion to reflect on the roots of the long-standing friendship and solidarity between the two countries. We sincerely thank everyone who attended.

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