Happy Independence Day to all my Korean friends!!

The flag depicted

in today’s Doodle, with a distinctive design inspired by Yin and Yang, will be seen all over South Korea today—flying on government buildings, private homes, and even trees. Sometimes referred to by the name Taegukgi, the flag is conspicuously displayed in celebration of Korea’s National Day of Liberation, also known as 광복절 or Gwangbokjeol, a commemoration of Korea’s independence from Japanese rule.

On this day in 1945, Japan’s surrender ended World War II and restored freedom to the people of the Korean Peninsula. August 15th remains the only national holiday celebrated in both North and South Korea.

The ”Gwangbokjeol Song” (광복절 노래) is played each year at a solemn flag-raising ceremony attended by President of South Korea. Gwangbokjeol means ‘Restoration of Light Day,’ a fitting name for a holiday when proud Korean citizens reflect on their past and look ahead to a bright future.