REPORT TO COUNCIL
SUBJECT
Title
Commemoration of the 80th Anniversary of National Liberation of Korea
Report
BACKGROUND
The City of Santa Clara has a significant presence of Korean owned businesses along the El Camino corridor in Santa Clara. In addition, Santa Clara has approximately 3,500 Korean residents based on the 2020 U.S. Census data and an estimated 1.8% of residents report Korean ancestry throughout Santa Clara County. The City of Santa Clara has also established a Friendship City with Icheon, Republic of Korea through the Santa Clara Sister Cities Association which further strengthens our international ties to the Korean community.
National Liberation Day of Korea is celebrated annually on the 15th of August in both North Korea and South Korea. It commemorates the day when the Korean Peninsula was liberated by the Allies in 1945 from 35 years of Japanese colonial rule and coincides with the anniversary of the founding of South Korea in 1945.
In North Korea, it is known as Chogukhaebangui Nal (Liberation of the Fatherland Day) and in South Korea, it is known as Gwangbokjeol (The Day the Light Returned). The name Gwangbokjeol uses the term "restoration" instead of "independence" to emphasize that Korea had been independent for years prior to Japanese rule.
In 2025, Korea will mark the 80th anniversary of its liberation from Japanese colonial rule. Various events will be held throughout August in the Korean community to commemorate this milestone, including exhibitions, concerts, and cultural programs.
DISCUSSION
At the August 19, 2025, City Council meeting, the City Council will commend and recognize the 80th anniversary of the National Liberation of Korea.
In recognition of the commemorative event, representatives including Deputy Counsel General Sang Deok Na from the Consulate General of the Republic of Korea, Daniel Woo, President of the Silicon Valley Korean American Federation, and Dr. Jonathan Kim, President of the San Francisco and Bay Area Korea Center will be present to accept the Commendation.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
This is an informative report only and no action is being taken by the City Council and no environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") is required.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no fiscal impact to the City other than staff time.
PUBLIC CONTACT
Public contact was made by posting the Council agenda on the City’s official-notice bulletin board outside City Hall Council Chambers. A complete agenda packet is available on the City’s website and in the City Clerk’s Office at least 72 hours prior to a Regular Meeting and 24 hours prior to a Special Meeting. A hard copy of any agenda report may be requested by contacting the City Clerk’s Office at (408) 615-2220, email clerk@santaclaraca.gov or at the public information desk at any City of Santa Clara public library.
Staff
Reviewed by: Aimee Escobar, Management Analyst, City Manager’s Office
Approved by: Jovan D. Grogan, City Manager
ATTACHMENTS
1. Commendation in Honor of the 80th Anniversary of the Liberation of Korea