Imagine a young soul, only 22, full of dreams and bursting with the spirit of freedom. That was Lee Han Yeol. From a simple childhood in Gwangju, he became a beacon of hope for a nation striving for democracy. In 1987, his life was abruptly halted when he was hit by a tear gas canister during a protest. Despite the pain, his spirit remained unbroken. A tragic photo, taken as he lost consciousness, became a symbol of the struggle for democracy. His loss was felt deeply across the nation. Over 1.6 million people attended his ‘Democratic National Funeral’, a testament to his impact on Korea’s democratic movement. Today, his final resting place is in his beloved hometown, Gwangju, at the 5.18 National Cemetery. In his memory, the Lee Han Yeol Memorial Museum in Seoul was established. The museum, filled with relics from his life, stands as a reminder of his sacrifice and the ongoing fight for democracy. Among these artifacts, you’ll find his school bag, glasses, and even the outfit he wore on that fateful day. Lee Han Yeol’s story may have ended early, but his legacy continues. Annual events such as the Lee Han Yeol Cultural Ceremony and the Lee Han Yeol Academic Conference keep his memory alive, fostering an ongoing dialogue about the meaning of democracy. His life may have been cut short, but his impact will never be forgotten. It is through the sacrifice of individuals like Lee that a nation’s path towards democracy is paved. #leehanyeol #democracy #Korea #history