Seoul: The veterans ministry announced on Tuesday its plans to host a concert in celebration of the 150th birth anniversary of Kim Koo, a pivotal figure in South Korea's struggle for independence. This announcement follows the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization's (UNESCO) decision to recognize this year as the anniversary of his birth, marking it with global celebrations.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Kim Koo (1876-1949) was a prominent leader of the provisional government in Shanghai, actively opposing Japan's colonial rule over Korea from 1910 to 1945. UNESCO's designation of 2026 as the year commemorating his birth underscores the historical importance of his contributions. The organization selects anniversaries of significant events or individuals who embody its core values, aiming to promote peace and extend their influence to member and associate states.

The commemorative concert will be held at the National Theater of Korea, located in central Seoul, at 7 p.m. on Tuesday. The event will feature a performance by the Millennium Symphony Orchestra and a special recital of a declaration by Vice Minister Kang Yun-jin, which will echo Kim Koo's vision of transforming the nation into a "cultural powerhouse."