In Sunchang, North Jeolla Province, there lies a remarkable piece of history etched into a rock face: the inscription '망일대' (Mangildae), which translates to "Japan Should Perish." This historical relic, carved during the Japanese occupation of Korea, symbolizes the fervent wish of resistance against Japanese colonial rule. Recently, this inscription has gained attention as researchers delve into its origins and the story behind it. Today, we explore who carved this significant message and what it represents in the context of Korea's struggle for independence.
The inscription '망일대' is located on a rock face at the 11th ridge of Mount Obong in Sunchang-gun, South Korea. The characters '망일대' use a variant of the character for "perish" (亡), specifically '兦', to avoid detection by colonial authorities. This inscription expresses the desire for the downfall of Japan. Accompanying the main inscription are additional names: '大韓老人' (Grand Elder of Korea) and various descendants' names carved below.
On August 11, a group led by Dr. Jeong Hyun-chang, a scholar of cultural heritage, visited the site to examine and document the rock inscription. Despite the inscription's visibility from the road, the path to it was obscured by dense overgrowth, making the journey to the site challenging. Dr. Jeong and his team, including local Sunchang residents, had to navigate through thick underbrush to reach the inscription.
Dr. Jeong’s research indicates that the inscription was made by Kim Yong-tae, a notable figure of the time, who was deeply involved in anti-Japanese activities. Kim Yong-tae, born on September 17, 1856, lived during the Japanese occupation and passed away in 1936. The rock inscription was his way of hoping for Japan’s downfall while enduring the harsh conditions of colonial rule.
Dr. Jeong also highlights that the inscription was part of a larger structure, a pavilion known as Mangildae, which has since been lost. Historical records, including the <Honanji> and documents from local scholars, confirm the existence of Mangildae and its role in the anti-Japanese movement. The pavilion was likely constructed between 1911 and 1925, reflecting a period of intense resistance against Japanese colonial rule.
Kim Yong-tae’s inscription, along with other pavilions like 'Toi-eun-jeong' and 'Sang-gu-jeong,' demonstrates the resilience and patriotic spirit of Koreans during a time of great adversity. The inscriptions served as symbols of hope and resistance, marking a defiant stand against Japanese oppression.
The Mangildae inscription in Sunchang is a powerful testament to the indomitable spirit of Korean resistance during the Japanese occupation. Carved by Kim Yong-tae, this message of defiance was both a personal and public expression of the desire for Japan's downfall. The inscription remains a significant historical artifact, embodying the struggles and aspirations of a nation yearning for freedom. As South Korea continues to remember and honor its past, the story of Mangildae underscores the enduring legacy of resistance and the importance of preserving such cultural treasures for future generations.
3 Line Summary for You
The 'Mangildae' inscription in Sunchang, which means "Japan Should Perish," was carved by Kim Yong-tae during the Japanese occupation. This historical message symbolizes the Korean resistance against Japanese rule. The inscription remains a poignant reminder of Korea's struggle for independence and the spirit of defiance.
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