The March 1st Movement arose from a growing desire among Koreans for independence from the oppressive Japanese colonial rule established in 1910. This movement was fueled by the broader context of anti-colonial sentiment following World War I and the global push for self-determination. On March 1, 1919, a group of 33 Korean nationalists gathered in Seoul to read a Declaration of Independence, inspired by U.S. President Woodrow Wilson's principles of self-rule. This immediate call for autonomy resonated with many Koreans, leading to widespread rallies and demonstrations across the nation.

Participants included a broad spectrum of the Korean society, from students to elderly citizens, who organized peaceful protests, chanting slogans and calling for freedom. The response from the Japanese authorities was brutal, with many protests met with violence, resulting in thousands of deaths and arrests. Despite the repression, the movement spread rapidly, marking an important moment in Korean resistance against colonization and fostering a sense of national identity among the populace.

International awareness of the Korean struggle was also raised, as reports of the brutal crackdown reached outside Korea. The March 1st Movement initiated further discussions about Korea's plight and highlighted the significance of achieving independence. This movement laid the foundation for future resistance efforts, such as setting up more organized movements within Korea, and eventually led to the Korean Liberation Army's efforts during World War II. Thus, it became a significant cornerstone in the historical narrative of Korea's fight for autonomy.