“Here starts the torch of 4.19 Revolution”

This is the monument that commemorates the participation of Dongsung High School students in the 4.19 Revolution. It's astonishing that high school students were involved in a revolution, especially one standing against dictatorship.
On March 15, 1960, massive election malpractice occurred during the South Korean Presidential and Vice Presidential elections. The death of the opposition presidential candidate, Jo Byeong-ok, secured Rhee Syngman's victory. Despite this, the ruling Freedom Party risked everything to ensure the election of Vice President Lee Ki-poong, preparing for the possible passing of the 85-year-old Rhee Syngman. It's natural to aim for victory in an election, but their actions crossed a line - planning and executing systematic election malpractice. The ruling Freedom Party's candidate, Lee Ki-poong, was at a disadvantage compared to the opposition Democratic Party's candidate, Jang Myeon, in many respects. This election malpractice was a violation of the people's sovereignty.

Although the election showed President Rhee Syngman winning with 88.7% and Vice President Lee Ki-poong with 79% of the votes, the public was outraged, demanding the nullity of the election. One of the angered citizens was Kim Juyeol, a student preparing for high school admission in Masan. He went missing during the protest on March 15th and was discovered on April 11th in the sea near the pier, his face embedded with tear gas. This event triggered massive protests in Masan, igniting nationwide anger against the dictatorship.

The atmosphere extended to Seoul, where on April 18th, students from Korea University peacefully protested against the fraudulent March 15th election and the Freedom Party's authoritarian rule. The government, however, dispatched bullyboys to attack the students, and this incident made headlines nationwide. Then, on the crucial day of April 19th, students from various middle and high schools in Seoul, including Dongsung High School, participated in the protests.

At 11 AM on April 19th, Dongsung High School students poured out of their school gates. Their frustration was heightened as Jang Myeon, the Vice Presidential candidate, had been the school's principal for an extended period. Teachers from Dongsung High School marched alongside the students, shielding and backing their cause.

United in their demand for 'democracy,' students and citizens from diverse areas marched toward Gyeongmudae, the President's residence. Yet, the confrontation turned tragic when the police resorted to indiscriminate firing, resulting in heartbreaking casualties. Despite the sorrowful beginning, this movement ultimately forced President Syngman Rhee's resignation and marked the downfall of the Freedom Party regime. The resounding call for democracy, voiced by students and citizens alike, finally found its realization.

Living in the Joseon era, where the king was seen as the owner of the nation, I was deeply amazed by the concept of democracy, where the people are considered the true proprietors of the country. Initially, it struck me as incredibly impressive, but I've come to understand that democracy is a collective endeavor, built and upheld by citizens together. The leadership shown by students is particularly astonishing. The journey of learning doesn't just conclude with acquiring knowledge; it involves applying that knowledge. The sacrifices made by the students are truly heart-wrenching.

Let's continue our journey. If you walk down Daehak-ro Main Street, you'll spot the Ahn Chang-ho statue. We'll pick up our tour from there.