"Science and technology are indeed the way to build a strong nation dreamed of by independence activists."
On the occasion of the 80th anniversary of liberation, scientists and engineers, descendants of independence activists, gathered in one place. The meeting titled 'Commemoration of the 80th anniversary of liberation: a meeting with scientists and engineers who are descendants of independence activists' was held on the 9th at the Korea Science and Technology Center in Gangnam, Seoul. The descendants of the independence activists all expressed their commitment to carry on the legacy of their ancestors who dedicated themselves to the nation through science and technology.
Kim Kwang-ryung, a technician working at the Shanghai branch of the state-owned China National Electric Power Company, noted, "My grandfather, Kim Bok-hyung, dedicated himself to the independence movement while serving in the Shanghai provisional government and assisting Mr. Ahn Chang-ho, leaving behind the last words, 'The next generation should focus on building the nation through science and technology, not politics.'" He also stated, "I have worked for decades in the field of power systems and completely agree that science and technology can save the country."
Other descendants of independence activists shared the same philosophy. Han Ming-gu, an emeritus professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Seoul National University, stated, "My grandfather, Han Gi-ak, emphasized the importance of industry and science and technology more than anyone else while engaging in the media after his work with the provisional government. The belief that a nation can prosper only if its industrial base is strong influenced my career choice, and that value continues to be passed on to my children."
Zhi Chenglong, a professor of physics at North Carolina State University, shared memories of his grandfather, passing on a spiritual legacy. He explained, "My grandfather always valued the fundamentals and lived simply," adding, "That spirit is also connected to the attitude of exploring the fundamental principles of the universe as a physicist." Professor Zhi is the grandson of Mr. Ji Eung-jin, who was active in the provisional government and the Korean Liberation Army.
Glen Winkel (Korean name: Shin Dae-hyun), the grandson of Mr. Shin Eul-no, who received the Order of National Founding this year, stated, "In a Korea with limited resources, where technological advancement is essential, I believe that science is both an identity and a path for our country."
Mr. Shin Eul-no dedicated himself to the independence movement in the 1940s, holding a significant position in the Hawaii headquarters of the Joseon National Revolutionary Party. Winkel holds a doctorate in neuroscience and currently serves as the representative of an IT consulting firm. He expressed, "I want to contribute to Korea in the field of science and technology in the future."