What happened during the March First Movement of 1919?

The March First Movement was a series of nationwide, largely peaceful demonstrations for Korean independence from Japanese colonial rule that began on March 1, 1919.123

Triggered by the death of the former emperor Gojong—a symbol of independence—33 cultural and religious leaders organized a mass rally in Seoul to read a "Proclamation of Independence". The movement quickly spread across the country, with an estimated two million people participating in over 1,500 demonstrations.124

The Japanese colonial authorities responded with brutal repression, deploying military and police units to suppress the protests. The crackdown resulted in approximately 7,500 deaths, 16,000 injuries, and 47,000 arrests.1243

Although the movement did not achieve immediate independence, it was a pivotal turning point that strengthened national unity, drew international attention, and led to the formation of the Korean Provisional Government in Shanghai. Today, March 1 is a national holiday in both North and South Korea.14