Visitors from the Republic of Korea (ROK) said they were deeply moved after visiting the former site of the Provisional Government of the ROK in southwest China's Chongqing Municipality, expressing gratitude for the Chinese government's efforts to keep the past alive for the future.

The historic site lies in the heart of Chongqing’s high-rise downtown, marking a critical chapter in history and the friendship between China and the ROK since World War II.

Tracing its roots back to its establishment in Shanghai in 1919, the Provisional Government of the ROK migrated across China to evade Japanese persecution before finally making Chongqing its stronghold in 1940. For six critical years, the grey-brick buildings served as their base.

Today, over 600 documents and photographs tell the story of ROK independence activists working side-by-side with their Chinese counterparts.

"The Provisional Government of the ROK spent six years in Chongqing. Since Chongqing was the strategic rear, they could engage in many public activities without fear of Japanese suppression. They view this era as the glorious conclusion to their 27-year struggle against Japanese suppression in China -- starting in Shanghai, but welcoming final victory right here in Chongqing," said Xie Xue, head of the former site of the Provisional Government of the Republic of Korea in Chongqing.

The site preserves the original Provisional Assembly hall, the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Finance, and the private offices of government leaders.

For many young ROK visiting China, walking through these halls offers a tangible connection to a history often only read about in textbooks.

"It's really a mind-blowing experience because I can feel the soul and the energy when everything happened back then. It's very touching, looking at our history in a different country, even (though) I wasn't born back then. But if my grandparents, that generation, if they come to see this one, they'd be really touched and they'd be really honored to be, you know, like be here, also like seeing all the things here," said Joo Seung Hui, an ROK visitor.

Having opened more than 30 years ago, the museum has become a place of remembrance and gratitude. Nearly 200 guestbooks, mostly filled by ROK visitors, express thanks to the Chinese government for preserving this revolutionary site and convey hope for lasting friendship between the two nations.

"This place actually has quite a meaning because it is where Korea had Independence Day, actually. So it felt very interesting to watch all of these places, and I felt also appreciative how Chinese government kept this place and how the museum has kept running till now," said Seo Ye Seo, another visitor from the ROK.