The 'Logic of Might' Behind International Law: An Jung-geun's Final Cry Before Death

Calligraphy written by Patriot An Jung-geun while in prison has returned.

It is a historical artifact that preserves his life, one that maintained indomitable spirit even as he experienced the helplessness of international law.

The Overseas Korean Cultural Heritage Foundation has unveiled An's calligraphy piece, "Mangukgongbeop Bulyeodaepo" (International Law is Not as Good as Big Guns), which was recently repatriated from Japan.

Yumuk refers to calligraphy or paintings left behind by a person before death.

Following the Harbin Uprising, Patriot An was sent to a Japanese court in Lushun for trial, leaving behind numerous pieces of calligraphy until his execution on March 26, 1910.

The calligraphy recently returned from Japan is believed to have been written in March 1910.

In the lower left corner of the artwork, a palm print dipped in ink is clearly visible, along with an inscription stating that it was written in March of Gyeongsul year, or 1910, by An Jung-geun, a "Korean."

The calligraphy holds immense significance as vivid material documenting the reality surrounding Patriot An.

After shooting Ito Hirobumi, An argued that he was carrying out a legitimate act of war in his capacity as the chief of staff of the Korean Righteous Army, demanding a trial according to "Mangukgongbeop," or international law.

However, the Japanese side reportedly indicted him on charges of simple murder and sought the death penalty.


Unveiled today, "Mangukgongbeop Bulyeodaepo" means that international law is inferior to cannons, reflecting a critique of the reality in which international order was governed by the logic of might.

The foundation explained, "These eight characters directly reflect Patriot An's perception of reality, including a deep skepticism regarding the powerlessness of international law."

A total of 31 calligraphy works by Patriot An Jung-geun have been designated as treasures.

(Photo: Yonhap News)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.