Cho Byung-se (1827 – December 1, 1905) was a civil official and martyr of late Joseon, known for his unwavering patriotism. His courtesy name was Chi-hyeon (穉顯), his pen name Sanjae (山齋), and he hailed from the Yangju Jo clan.
After passing the state civil service exam during the reign of King Cheoljong, Jo steadily rose through the ranks, eventually serving as the Right State Councillor in 1889 and Left State Councillor in 1893. However, following the Gabo Reform of 1894, which restructured the government, he resigned from his position and retired to Gapyeong.
In 1905, following the signing of the Eulsa Treaty, Jo traveled to the capital, pleading with Emperor Gojong to execute the five officials responsible for the treaty’s betrayal. His efforts were obstructed by Japanese interference. Together with figures like Shim Sang-hoon and Min Young-hwan, he persistently submitted appeals to annul the treaty, even camping at the royal palace for days. Eventually, he was forcibly removed by the Japanese military. In his final act of resistance, Jo left letters addressed to foreign envoys and his fellow countrymen, before ending his life through poison. He was 78 years old at the time of his death and was posthumously honored with the title “Chungjeong” (忠正), meaning loyal and upright.
Translation:
As the cool autumn deepens day by day, I have been anxiously awaiting news from you. Now, having received your letter at this time, I am relieved to learn that you have been in good health and harmony, in keeping with the season, and that your son is also safe and well. The joy and comfort I feel at this news are exactly as I had hoped.
As I continue to wear mourning clothes, the sorrow I feel from witnessing the changing times only grows more profound. On top of that, I am deeply troubled by my wife’s worsening illness, which leaves me in constant worry. How could this situation be explained? Although my trip to Honam is imminent, if her condition improves even slightly, I plan to set off on the first day of next month. If the journey does not require a great detour, I look forward to the pleasure of shaking hands and meeting in person.
The items you kindly sent me were given out of true sentiment, and I have gratefully received them. As for the rest, I leave them behind without adding more words.
Written on the 23rd day of the 8th month in the year of Gyeongjin,
With utmost respect,
Choe Bok-in
Humbly, Cho Byeong-se.
