Ahn Jung-geun's Final Calligraphy Work Repatriated from Japan

A significant piece of Korean independence activist Ahn Jung-geun's legacy has returned to South Korea. The calligraphy work, titled 'International Law is Inferior to Cannons' (萬國公法不如大砲), was publicly unveiled on Tuesday at Deoksugung Palace's Jungmyeongjeon Hall in Seoul, following its repatriation from Japan.

The artwork, created in March 1910 while Ahn was imprisoned in Lushun, just weeks before his execution, carries a powerful message of disillusionment. The inscription translates to 'International law is inferior to cannons,' a sentiment believed to stem from Ahn's experience after assassinating Itō Hirobumi. Ahn had demanded a trial under international law as a soldier engaged in legitimate warfare, but the Japanese authorities prosecuted him as a common criminal, ultimately sentencing him to death.

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International law is inferior to cannons

Experts have authenticated the piece, noting the distinctive palm print seal, a common feature in Ahn's works, and the calligraphy style. The inscription '庚戌三月 於旅順獄中 大韓國人 安重根 書' (Written by Ahn Jung-geun, a Korean, in Lushun Prison in March of the Gyeongsul Year) further confirms its origin and the period it was created. The work's distinctive calligraphic style, blending regular script with cursive elements, and its powerful brushstrokes are consistent with Ahn's other authenticated works.

The provenance of the artwork has also been traced through inscriptions on its reverse side. These reveal that the calligraphy was initially received by the warden of Lushun Prison, Guriha-ra Sadakichi, and later passed to an unidentified individual who preserved and framed it. This discovery sheds light on the artifact's journey and the individuals who safeguarded it. The Cultural Heritage Administration and the Overseas Korean Cultural Heritage Foundation facilitated the repatriation of the artwork, which was confirmed to exist in Japan in May of the previous year.

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Written by Ahn Jung-geun, a Korean, in Lushun Prison in March of the Gyeongsul Year