New Foundation Committee Aims to Revitalize Legacy of Korean Independence Pioneer Choi Jai-hyung
A significant step has been taken to ensure the enduring legacy of Choi Jai-hyung, a pivotal figure in the Korean independence movement, is not only remembered but also actively supported. The “Choi Jai-hyung Memorial Foundation Fund Patronage Committee” convened its inaugural meeting recently at the Lotte Hotel in Seoul. This committee has been established to honor Choi Jai-hyung’s remarkable achievements and his dedication of wealth amassed in Russia’s Primorsky Krai to the crucial cause of Korean independence.
The Choi Jai-hyung Memorial Foundation itself was founded in 2011 with the core mission of organizing annual memorial services and spearheading commemorative projects. However, in recent times, the foundation has encountered considerable challenges in securing consistent operational funds, primarily due to a decline in public and private support. To counteract this financial strain and solidify its future, the foundation has launched this new patronage committee, which is set to initiate a comprehensive public fundraising campaign.
Leadership and Advisory Council Bolster the Committee’s Reach
The newly formed patronage committee boasts a distinguished leadership and advisory council, underscoring the importance and broad appeal of Choi Jai-hyung’s historical significance.
- Chairperson of the Patronage Committee: Chung Suk-hyun, Chairman of the Su-san Group, takes the helm of this crucial initiative.
- Overseas Head: Park Jong-beom, Chairman of the World Federation of Overseas Korean Businessmen, will spearhead efforts in international engagement.
The committee is further fortified by a robust group of advisors and academic members, representing a wide spectrum of expertise and influence:
Distinguished Advisors:
- Sohn Kyung-shik, Chairman of the Korea Enterprises Federation.
- Kim Hyeong-o, former National Assembly Speaker.
- Jung Bui-keun, former National Assembly Speaker.
Academic and Influential Members: This group is tasked with promoting awareness and understanding of Choi’s profound legacy.
- Han Min-koo, former Minister of Defense.
- Kang Min-koo, esteemed lawyer.
- Kim Tae-yu, Seoul National University Emeritus Professor.
- Oh Jong-nam, Seoul National University Emeritus Professor.
- Choi Jin-seok, Sogang University Emeritus Professor.
- Kang Shin-jang, CEO of Mongnesans.
- Kim Hyo-jun, former CEO of BMW Korea.
- Jang Se-jung, Commentator for JoongAng Ilbo.
Prominent Corporate Patrons: Several leading business figures have pledged their support, demonstrating a commitment to preserving national history.
- Kwak Jae-seon, Chairman of KG Group.
- Kim Hong-guk, Chairman of Harim Group.
- Yoon Dong-han, Chairman of Kolmar Korea.
The Extraordinary Life and Sacrifice of Choi Jai-hyung
Choi Jai-hyung’s life story is one of immense courage, entrepreneurial success, and unwavering patriotism. Born in 1860 in Gyeongwon, North Hamgyong Province, he embarked on a journey at the tender age of nine with his parents to Primorsky Krai in Russia. It was in this foreign land that he not only found success as a businessman but also channeled his considerable resources and influence into the fight for Korean liberation.
His commitment to the independence movement was evident from his early endeavors. In 1908, he took a leading role in organizing the Donguihoe, recognized as the first overseas righteous army group dedicated to resisting Japanese colonial rule. Demonstrating remarkable strategic thinking and a deep understanding of the clandestine nature of the resistance, Choi employed innovative tactics to evade Japanese surveillance. In 1909, while serving as the head of Daedong Gongbosah in Vladivostok, he appointed the prominent independence fighter Ahn Jung-geun as a journalist. This appointment served as a crucial cover, allowing Ahn Jung-geun to operate and evade Japanese authorities more effectively.
Choi Jai-hyung’s pivotal role in the independence movement was further recognized in 1919 when he was appointed as the first Finance Minister of the Provisional Government of the Republic of Korea. His dedication and contributions earned him the revered title of the “patriarch of the independence movement in the Russian Far East.” Tragically, his tireless efforts came at a great personal cost. He was arrested by Japanese forces and ultimately died in Ussuriysk in 1920, a martyr to the cause of Korean freedom.
Ambitious Fundraising Goals for a Stable Future
The establishment of the patronage committee is not merely symbolic; it is driven by a clear and ambitious financial objective. Chung Suk-hyun, the chairperson of the committee, shared encouraging news regarding initial support. He revealed that acquaintances who were made aware of the foundation’s financial challenges have already pledged approximately 2 billion Korean won in support, accumulated from January until the present.
Looking ahead, the committee plans to build upon this strong initial response by launching a public fundraising campaign. The goal is to raise an additional 3 billion Korean won. This substantial sum is intended to establish a stable operational base for the Choi Jai-hyung Memorial Foundation, ensuring its long-term capacity to carry out its vital mission of remembrance and education. The collective efforts of this distinguished committee are poised to secure the enduring legacy of a true Korean hero.
