A true noblesse oblige of Korea

     People often (well most of the time) have prejudice to those who are rich as greedy and selfish. Through the history, there weren’t many nobles who have done good for their own nations. However, a very famous ‘noblesse oblige’-a French phrase literally meaning "nobility obliges". It is the concept that nobility extends beyond mere entitlements and requires the person with such status to fulfill social responsibilities, particularly in leadership roles-tells us that there were some nobles who set a good example. 

     Now, I want to talk about a Korean independence activist who showed a good example of ‘noblesse oblige.’ His name is Lee Hwe-young. He is not known well but his achievements to the national independence were great. He persuaded his family and spent all of the family property for the independence. He also participated as independence activist and raised an army for national independence. Even though he became bankrupt and had to suffer from starving, he never regretted. One of his famous quotes were “it is a matter of course to sacrifice for your nation,” “even after my death, my soul will stay in this earth and see my nation’s independence.” His love for nation is so touching that my eyes were burst into tears. Not only the nobles but we should all learn from him: his love for nation. 

Reference: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Noblesse_oblige

Photo source: http://www.newdaily.co.kr/news/article.html?no=178588

Man-Hee Lee, led the event of Korean Independence Day

     
     August 15th is Korean Independence Day-in Korean, “광복절.” The meaning of “광복절” is a restoration of light. Korea was once under control by Japan for over 40 years. During the Japan-conquering period, many Koreans tried independent movement. The most well-known movement is March 1st movement in 1919 which is another big holiday in Korea. And in 1945, Korea finally became an independent country.

     Man-Hee Lee, a veteran Korean War soldier who knows well about the misery of war, led the Independent festival to commemorate those who sacrificed for Korea. Many beautiful Korean traditional dances, plays, orchestra, martial arts performance, etc. were held and flew an extra-large thumbprint Korean flag up in the sky. 

<The thumbprint Korean flag>

   The thumbprint was sealed by 17,337 citizens. Amazing isn’t it? It is now listed in the Guinness Book. Everyone who participated in the event was all touched by the effort of one man. As a love for country, Man-Hee Lee is a true patriot and peace leader of this time.