In celebration of Gwangbokjeol (Korea’s Liberation Day), the Cyber Diplomacy Mission VANK is launching a campaign using social media platforms such as Instagram and Facebook to promote the raising of the national flag, the Taegukgi. The “Gwangbokjeol Taegukgi Campaign” encourages individuals to participate in this meaningful tradition, despite the challenges many face in physically displaying the flag at home.
While it is common to raise the Taegukgi on national holidays such as Samiljeol (Independence Movement Day), Constitution Day, Gwangbokjeol, Gaecheonjeol (National Foundation Day), and Hangeul Day, it has become increasingly difficult for families to take out and hoist the flag due to the hassle of storing it. As a result, the number of households raising the national flag on these significant days has steadily declined. To address this issue, VANK has developed an augmented reality (AR) filter for users to display the Taegukgi virtually, making it easier to participate in the Gwangbokjeol celebration.
The AR filters created by VANK come in three different types. The first and second filters are the ‘Taegukgi Filter,’ which allow users to display the flag on flat surfaces such as desks or floors by simply pointing their cameras and tapping on the screen. These two filters showcase two versions of the Taegukgi: the modern design and the ‘Denny Taegukgi,’ which is known as the oldest surviving version, dating back to the 1890s. This version holds historical significance, having been present during key events such as the Japanese occupation and Korea’s eventual liberation. Users are encouraged to take photos with the flag at various locations such as parks, rivers, or desks and share them with others.
The third filter is the ‘Taeguk Band Filter,’ which features the symbols of heaven, earth, water, and fire (cheon, gon, gam, ri) as a background. This filter activates through facial recognition, placing a Taeguk headband and a Mugunghwa sticker on the user’s face. This filter offers a fun and interactive way for participants to show their support for the campaign and celebrate the occasion.
Those interested in participating in the campaign can visit VANK’s Instagram account and access the filters via the third option in the posts section. The filter can also be found by searching for “광복절태극기캠페인” on Instagram. Detailed instructions on how to use the filters can be found in the card news section below.
Through this campaign, VANK hopes to encourage people to commemorate Gwangbokjeol and reflect on the countless efforts that led to Korea’s liberation.
How to Participate in the Campaign:
- Follow the VANK Instagram account @vank_prkorea
- Click on the AR filter tab in the profile
- Use the filter to take your own Taegukgi photo or video
- Upload the photo or video to your social media
This campaign serves as a unique opportunity to celebrate Korea’s independence and share the spirit of Gwangbokjeol with the global community.