Carried Out Independence Activities for Over 30 Years in Various Fields Such as Education, Business, Media, and Religion Both in Korea and Abroad
Uiryeong County in South Gyeongsang Province has opened the "Baeksan Nara Love Neoreunmadang," a venue dedicated to commemorating the life and achievements of Baeksan Ahn Heeje (1885?1943), a prominent local figure in the anti-Japanese independence movement, and to tracing his footsteps as an independence activist.
The "Baeksan Nara Love Neoreunmadang," which embodies the entirety of the "Baeksan spirit," was established in Ibsan-ri, Burim-myeon, with a project budget of 5 billion KRW, including national and provincial funds. The facility, with a total area of 932.2 square meters, includes exhibition, experiential, and accommodation facilities.
Exhibits feature audiovisual materials and records focusing on the life and anti-Japanese independence activities of Baeksan Ahn Heeje, as well as the footsteps of various other notable figures. There is also a seminar room where educational programs designed to inspire patriotism and the spirit of independence will be held. In addition, guest rooms have been created to provide comfortable accommodation for visitors.
The opening ceremony for the "Baeksan Nara Love Neoreunmadang" was held on May 21, with over 500 local residents in attendance, including County Governor Oh Taewan, Council Chair Kim Gyuchan and county council members, National Assembly member Park Sangwoong, and Provincial Assembly member Kwon Wonman. The event featured congratulatory performances, the presentation of appreciation plaques, and a screening of a film about Baeksan.
The statue of Baeksan Ahn Heeje was the highlight of the opening ceremony.
The first statue ever created of Baeksan depicts Ahn Heeje with a solemn expression, moving swiftly while carrying a bag filled with funds for the independence movement. Unlike typical statues, which are placed on high pedestals to emphasize grandeur, the pedestal of the Baeksan Ahn Heeje statue was made as low as possible to allow visitors to feel closer to him.
County Governor Oh Taewan stated, "Baeksan is not someone to be briefly mentioned and forgotten in Korean history class. It is rare to find someone who engaged in the independence movement across so many fields?education, business, media, and religion?both at home and abroad for over 30 years." He added, "Baeksan Nara Love Neoreunmadang will serve as a place to reflect on the spirit of patriotism and to pass on his courage and noble ideals to future generations."
Meanwhile, the Sunheung Ahn Clan Association also participated in the opening ceremony, adding to the significance of the event.
Ahn Gyeongha, the eldest grandson of Baeksan Ahn Heeje, said, "My grandfather missed Uiryeong so much that he left a will asking us to plant fruit trees on the hills of his hometown. I am delighted that, thanks to the efforts of Uiryeong County, my grandfather's wish has been fulfilled."
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