Seoul: Prime Minister Han Seong-sook awarded state medals and citations to 68 people in recognition of their contributions to various projects the government carried out last year to mark the 80th anniversary of Korea's liberation from Japan's 1910-45 colonial rule. Among the honorees were distinguished individuals such as Lee Jong-chan and Yuji Hosaka, who have played significant roles in commemorating this important milestone in Korea's history.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Lee Jong-chan, a former lawmaker currently heading the Heritage of Korean Independence, received the Moran Medal. His leadership as a co-chair of the committee responsible for overseeing commemorative projects was pivotal. Yuji Hosaka, a naturalized South Korean from Japan and a professor at Korea University, was honored with a presidential citation for his efforts in preventing historical distortions related to Dokdo, South Korea's easternmost islets claimed by Japan, and the issue of wartime sexual slaves, known as comfort women.

Prime Minister Han expressed his gratitude, stating, "Thanks to the dedication of many people, a solid cornerstone was laid to correctly record the history of the independence movement and remember it together with the people." He emphasized the nation's responsibility to build a fairer and more peaceful Republic of Korea, honoring the sacrifices of patriotic martyrs and ensuring a better future for generations to come.