The Embassy of Sri Lanka in the Republic of Korea, together with the Sri Lankan community celebrated the 77th anniversary of the independence of Sri Lanka on 04 February 2025 in Seoul.
The event commenced with the hoisting of the National Flag of Sri Lanka by the Ambassador of Sri Lanka to the Republic of Korea, Savitri Panabokke, followed by the singing of the national anthem. A two-minute silence was observed in memory of all those who sacrificed their lives for the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the motherland.
The event featured the lighting of the traditional oil lamp by Ambassador Savitri Panabokke; Honorary Consul of Sri Lanka in the South Gyeongsan Province, Seo Min-Jai; CEO, Pacific Air Agency Group-GSA of Sri Lankan Airlines, John Park; representatives of Bank of Ceylon, People's Bank, National Savings Bank, Commercial Bank and Sampath Bank and Sri Lankans representing the business community, professionals, migrant workers and students residing in the Republic of Korea.
Multi-religious observances were conducted by the Venerable Maha Sangha and religious dignitaries of the Hindu, Muslim and Christian faiths, invoking blessings upon Sri Lankans.
The National Day Messages of President Anura Kumara Disanayaka, Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya and Minister Vijitha Herath were read out by the staff of the Embassy.
Addressing the gathering, the Ambassador highlighted the importance of the momentous occasion of the 77th anniversary of Sri Lanka's Independence. She recalled the vital role played by the expatriate Sri Lankans in the socio-economic development of the country. Furthermore, the Ambassador thanked the Sri Lankan community in South Korea who continuously support their motherland, strengthening the country's economy through remittances.
Highlighting the theme of the 77th Independence Day - “Towards a National Renaissance”, the Ambassador briefed the gathering on the “Clean Sri Lanka” initiative of the President which aims to address a cleaner physical environment and a nationwide moral commitment to enhance ethical principles. She further explained the importance of stakeholder responsibility of all citizens in this regard and requested the collaboration and support of Sri Lankans in the Republic of Korea as development partners of the motherland.
As part of the event, the Embassy organized a felicitation for 7 religious institutions in the Republic of Korea in recognition of their remarkable service and continuous assistance to the Sri Lankan community in the Republic of Korea. The representatives of each institution who took part in the event at the invitation of the Embassy were presented appreciation plaques.
The celebration concluded with the singing of the national anthem in the Tamil language and refreshments served to the Sri Lankans who participated in the event.
Embassy of Sri Lanka
Seoul
06 February 2025
