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Ahn Jung-geun calligraphy, 'International Law is Inferior to Cannons,' returns from Japan

From Hankyoreh · () Korean

Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

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  • A significant piece of calligraphy by Korean independence activist Ahn Jung-geun, titled 'International Law is Inferior to Cannons,' has been returned from Japan to South Korea.
  • The artwork, created while Ahn was imprisoned by Japanese authorities, will be publicly displayed on August 13.
  • The calligraphy reflects Ahn's insight into the power dynamics of the era, emphasizing the dominance of military might over international law.

A significant piece of calligraphy by Ahn Jung-geun, the revered Korean independence activist who assassinated Ito Hirobumi, has been returned to South Korea from Japan. The artwork, created during Ahn's imprisonment, carries the title 'International Law is Inferior to Cannons' ('Man-guk Gongbeop Bul-yeo Daepoh').

Heo Min, head of the Cultural Heritage Administration, announced on August 5 that the calligraphy would be unveiled to the public in mid-August. Ahn's writings from his prison years are highly valued as artistic testaments to his spirit and determination for independence. The newly recovered piece, 'International Law is Inferior to Cannons,' is particularly notable for its inscription, which conveys a stark message about the geopolitical realities of the time.

International Law is Inferior to Cannons

— Ahn Jung-geunThe title of the calligraphy returned from Japan.

The phrase 'Man-guk Gongbeop' refers to international law as understood in the late Korean Empire, while 'Daepoh' signifies cannons used in warfare. The calligraphy thus expresses Ahn's view that in a world governed by power, international law was less effective than military strength. This insight into the 'law of the jungle' era is seen as a profound reflection of his understanding of the international political climate.

Ahn Jung-geun assassinated Ito Hirobumi, the first Governor-General of Korea, at Harbin Station on October 26, 1909. He was sentenced to death the following February and executed by hanging on March 26, 1910. During his final approximately 40 days, he produced numerous calligraphic works. The newly repatriated piece shares common characteristics with other known works from this period, including the inscription 'Daehan-inguk Ahn Jung-geun' (Great Korean Ahn Jung-geun) and a handprint dipped in ink instead of a seal. The Cultural Heritage Administration confirmed that 'International Law is Inferior to Cannons' was likely created just days before his execution, adding to its historical significance.

Great Korean Ahn Jung-geun

— Ahn Jung-geunAn inscription found on the calligraphy, common to works from his final days.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Hankyoreh in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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