The 3.1 Movement and Korean Declaration of Independence

 Every year on March 1st, Korea pauses to honor a pivotal chapter in its history: Samiljeol, or the March 1st (3.1) Independence Movement Day. This national holiday commemorates the spirited stand Koreans took against Japanese colonial rule on March 1st, 1919. But what exactly sparked this significant outburst of patriotism, and how does it continue to resonate in Korean culture and language today? Let's embark on a journey back to this historic day, unpacking the events and examining the profound linguistic nuances of the Declaration of Independence that reverberate through time.
 

Historical Background of the 3.1 Movement

The annexation of the Korean Empire by Japan in 1910 marked the onset of a dark era. Koreans found themselves stripped of their sovereignty, subjected to cultural and linguistic erasure, and exploited economically under Japanese dominion. The global stage seemed indifferent to Korea's plight, even as the concept of national self-determination gained traction post-World War I. Yet, the Korean spirit remained unbroken; a simmering discontent brewed, culminating in the mass protests of the 3.1 Movement.
 
This watershed moment was more than just a demonstration; it was a resounding declaration of Korea's longing for independence. Despite facing brutal crackdowns that resulted in numerous deaths, the movement ignited a flame of resistance that would fuel future liberation efforts. Its legacy is a testament to Korea's unyielding desire for self-rule and dignity.
 

The Heart of the Movement: The Declaration of Independence

At the core of the 3.1 Movement was the Declaration of Independence, a document that voiced the collective aspiration for freedom and criticized the injustices of colonial rule. Signed by thirty-three diverse leaders, the declaration was a call for peace, liberty, and justice. It stands as a monumental assertion of Korea's right to self-determination and highlights the universal principles of humanity and equality.

 On the website of the Cultural Heritage Administration, you can see a clear image of the Declaration of Independence. Let's take a look at the original text, where the content words are written in Hanja (Chinese characters). It begins with the statement, “吾等(오등)은 玆(자)에 我(아) 朝鮮(조선)의 獨立國(독립국)임과 朝鮮人(조선인)의 自主民(자주민)임을 宣言(선언)하노라.” In contemporary Korean, this is “우리는 이에 우리 조선이 독립한 나라임과 조선 사람이 자주적인 민족임을 선언하노라,” and it can be translated into English as, “We hereby declare that Korea is an independent state and that Koreans are a self-governing people.” Phrases now considered archaic, such as “오등은 (we)” and “자에 (hereby),” highlight the evolution of the Korean language from its use of Hanja (Chinese characters) to the modern Hangul script, offering insight into the linguistic transition.

 

The 3.1 Movement is a powerful reminder of Korea's struggle for sovereignty and the enduring strength of its people. It highlights the profound impact of collective action and the significance of preserving cultural and linguistic heritage as a means of asserting national identity. The evolution of the Korean language from the Declaration of Independence to contemporary usage is a testament to the country's resilience and adaptability.