The brutal authoritarian rule of colonial Japan is not forgotten by a gracious older woman who was a pioneering actress in the Korean film industry. ChangSoon Seo, who was born in 1937 and is aged 88, is one of three members of Auckland’s Korean community the Times meets with in the lead up to the 80th anniversary of Korea’s Independence Day on August 15. Mrs Seo moved to New Zealand eight years ago to live closer to her daughter and during our chat she revealed she was an actress in 23 movies in the early days of films produced in the Republic of Korea – South Korea. The former Empire of Japan ruled with an iron fist over the whole of the Korean Peninsula from 1910 to 1945, until it surrendered to the United States at the end of World War II on August 15, 1945. “During the Japanese colonisation of our land, unimaginable acts of cruelty were committed,” Mrs Seo tells the Times, through translator YongRahn Park, of the east Auckland-based Korean Positive Ageing Charitable Trust (KPACT). “Young women were subjected to horrific abuse, including rape and exploitation. “Young boys and students were forcibly taken and sent off to war as Japanese soldiers.” There were lots more atrocities from that period of history that could have been discussed, but as we continued our interview, Mrs Seo talked in language illustrating the strong character of Korean people. “On Independence Day, we hold the Taegeukgi [태극기 flag of South Korea] close to our hearts, waving it high. In 1945, we couldn’t hide our joy. Words just can’t describe it. “We shouted ‘대한민국만세! Long live the Republic of Korea!’” However, as history recalls, the initial joy for the end of Japanese rule was followed by years of civil war that ideologically divided South and North Koreas and involved many different countries, from June 25, 1950. That war has technically not ended, though fighting generally has stopped. “After the Korean War, Korea in all sectors was destroyed. People were starving. It was a poor country,” said Mrs Seo. “Rising from the ruins of war, we worked tirelessly with the single-minded determination to build a nation where no one would go hungry. “Driven by the belief that we must not pass poverty down to our children, we turned to education, believing it was the key to overcoming those difficult times. “With that mindset, we came together in unity. Through hard work and a strong belief that we could overcome, we achieved economic growth. “I believe it was that spirit – and the power of a positive, can-do attitude – that helped shape the Korea we know today.” Mrs Seo’s name as a screen actress was Aeja Seo, and from 1953 until the early 1960s she starred in 23 Korean movies. In her mid-teens, she was discovered by chance in public by filmmakers and given the opportunity to star in one of Korea’s most important films, 독립운동!/March 1st Independence Movement – Long live Korean Independence! YongRahn says the March 1st Independence Movement or Korean Independence Movement commenced on March 1, 1919. “This incident happened during the Japanese colonial period. Koreans protested against Japanese rule, declaring the nullification of the Korea-Japan annexation treaty, declaring Korea’s independence, beginning a non-violent independence movement. “It’s also called the Gimi Independence Movement. It was an independence movement that rose throughout the Korean Peninsula on the day of King Gojong’s death (funeral day), as rumours spread that King Gojong was poisoned.” Meeting also with the Times was ChangDong Choi, a respected conductor of Samulnori – Korean drumming. We came together because there’s a special concert of Korean music being held on Saturday, August 9, at Ormiston Senior College Auditorium, to celebrate the 80th anniversary of Korea’s liberation. It has also got more significance because for the first time in New Zealand there will be a combined performance of a Korean orchestra and Samulnori drummers. Mr Choi has lived in New Zealand for 31 years and ran restaurant Choi’s Korean BBQ for 25 years in Meadowlands, retiring five years ago. He’s been the conductor, instructor and leader of the KPACT Samulnori group for the past 14 years. YongRahn says his father was also a renowned Samulnori conductor in Korea and led one of the country’s most well-known teams. “Following in his footsteps, Mr Choi has devoted himself to preserving and promoting traditional Korean percussion in New Zealand. “KPACT’s Samulnori team has become a leading representative of Korean cultural performance, showcasing traditional music not only within the Howick Local Board area but also across the Auckland region,” she says. Mr Choi says: “We’re proud to say we’re regarded as one of the most advanced-level Samulnori teams in Auckland. “For this special event, we’re collaborating with the New Korean Symphony Orchestra, led by conductor NungJin Lee, the first-ever collaboration of its kind in New Zealand. “Planning began in August 2024, and from December onward, our team has practiced over six hours a day, without breaks, to prepare for this performance. “This genre is completely different from what our Samulnori team typically performs,” Mr Choi says. “Thanks to the passion and dedication of our advanced-level members. We have embraced the challenge with open hearts and great enthusiasm. “We’re honoured to be part of this meaningful event. This performance means a great deal.” YongRahn says: “On behalf of the board and members of KPACT, I extend our heartfelt gratitude to the New Zealand Government, local bodies, social service providers, and all the organisations we have worked alongside over the years for their continued support and commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive society. “In the spirit of that shared vision, KPACT is honoured to present the 80th Anniversary of Liberation Commemorative Concert, a meaningful cultural event that celebrates Korea’s liberation and the enduring values of freedom, hope, and unity. “This year’s commemoration holds special significance. As Korean New Zealanders, we’re deeply mindful that the freedom and progress Korea enjoys today would not have been possible without the courageous support of nations like New Zealand. “As a steadfast ally during the Korean War, New Zealand made great sacrifices in support of Korea’s freedom – sacrifices that will never be forgotten,” YongRahn says. “With profound gratitude and a deep sense of shared history, we wish to celebrate Korea’s liberation not only within our own community but together with the people of Aotearoa New Zealand. “As proud members of this society, this event is especially meaningful – a bridge between the past and present, and a tribute to the enduring bond between our two nations. “This celebration will also feature a variety of performances showcasing both traditional and contemporary Korean music.” YongRahn extends an invitation to anyone who wants to attend the event. “We sincerely hope you will be able to join us for this special occasion. We look forward to welcoming you to what promises to be a memorable and meaningful celebration,” she says. The Korean Liberation 80th Anniversary Concert is at Ormiston Senior College Auditorium, 275 Ormiston Road, Flat Bush, on Saturday, August 9, from 7pm to 9pm. Admission is free. To reserve seats, book tickets at https://www.eventbrite.co.nz/d/new-zealand–auckland/korean-festival/ or https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100070157501498