Eunpyeong History Hanok Museum Special Exhibition 'Baekbeom Kim Gu Writes' Ongoing

Three Original Independence Declarations Including the '3·1 Independence Declaration' Revealed... Unpublished Works Showcasing Baekbeom's Calligraphy Newly Unveiled

3.1 Independence Declaration

[Asia Economy Reporter Park Jong-il] Eunpyeong-gu (Mayor Kim Mi-kyung), which operates the Eunpyeong History Hanok Museum, is holding a special exhibition titled "Baekbeom Kim Gu Writes" from December 10 last year to May 9 this year.

This exhibition, which reflects on the true meaning of liberation through Kim Gu's life and calligraphy, features three precious original copies of the Declaration of Independence awaiting visitors in commemoration of the March 1st Movement.

"Baekbeom Kim Gu Writes" is an exhibition that reviews the activities of the Provisional Government of the Republic of Korea and reflects on the true meaning of liberation through Kim Gu's life and calligraphy.

The Provisional Government of the Republic of Korea, where Kim Gu served as chairman, is rooted in the spirit of the March 1st Movement. In this exhibition, in addition to Kim Gu's calligraphy works, three original copies of the Declaration of Independence, which are rarely gathered in one place, are on display, attracting attention.

Among them, the "March 1st Declaration of Independence" (March 1, 1919), designated as a national registered cultural heritage, is especially significant as it was owned by Wi-chang Oh Se-chang (1864?1953), a national representative, among the declared cultural heritage declarations of independence.

The "March 1st Declaration of Independence," written by Choi Nam-seon, contains the background and legitimacy of the declaration of independence, the national damage caused by Japanese imperialism, and the belief in independence.

Before the announcement of the "March 1st Declaration of Independence," the "Declaration of Korean Independence" (February 1, 1919), known as the first declaration of independence in Korea and which influenced the former, is also exhibited.

It was drafted by Cho So-ang, urging for autonomous independence, and announced by 39 independence activists in Manchuria, representing overseas independence movements.

Additionally, the "Declaration of the Korean National Assembly," announced in the Maritime Province, can also be seen, making these three precious original declarations of independence, which are difficult to appreciate in one place, available for visitors during this March 1st anniversary.

Over 60 pieces, including masterpieces of calligraphy embodying the spirit and traces of Baekbeom Kim Gu's independence movement and previously unreleased relics, are on display. Alongside these, the "Ilsong Ogang (日誦五綱, Five Daily Recitations)" written for Sim San Kim Chang-suk is being revealed to the public for the first time.

Written by Daegye Lee Seung-hee, Sim San's teacher, in an elegant and dignified brushstroke, this work prompts a reconsideration of the breadth and origins of Baekbeom's calligraphy. This large-scale piece of seven panels, first disclosed by Sim San's grandson, is a masterpiece.

An official from Eunpyeong-gu stated, "We hope this special exhibition 'Baekbeom Kim Gu Writes' will serve as an opportunity to reflect once again on the significance of the March 1st Movement," adding, "For those who find it difficult to visit and view the original declarations of independence in person, online exhibition viewing is also available on the museum's website. We encourage many to participate."