Geum Dal-yeon (1874–1914) was a militia leader during the Korean Empire, hailing from Yeongju, Gyeongsangbuk-do. After the Eulsa Treaty was forcibly signed, he organized a militia in Yeongju in 1906 with Kim Nak-im and began his resistance activities. In 1907, he attacked several locations, including the Sunheung branch of the Japanese military police, achieving notable results. In September of that year, he joined Lee Kang-nyeon’s militia as a military officer and vanguard. Notably, in 1908, after Lee Kang-nyeon was captured during the Battle of Cheongpung in Chungcheong Province, Geum, along with Kim Sang-tae, regrouped the militia and continued fighting against the Japanese forces, achieving significant victories.
In 1909, Geum was captured by Japanese forces and sentenced to life imprisonment. While serving his sentence at the Daegu District Court, he passed away in prison. In recognition of his contributions, he was posthumously awarded the Order of Merit for National Foundation (Independence Medal) in 1980.
Translation :
Dalyeon (達淵) humbly bows his head and speaks.
It is truly an unexpected and shocking event that misfortune has befallen your esteemed household with the passing of Madam Hap. Upon receiving the news, I cannot express how startled and saddened I was. Reflecting on it, the bond between husband and wife is profound, and I can only imagine the immense grief and sorrow you must be enduring. Furthermore, not having yet completed the mourning period (for Madam Hap) and now suffering the untimely passing of your son, what misfortune this is, and how can one understand the reasons for such events?
However, even the wise and enlightened men of the past could not avoid such tragedies. Therefore, I humbly ask that you release your worries and try to eat, so as not to harm your spirit and health by succumbing too much to grief.
I should rightfully rush to offer my condolences in person, but due to my own overwhelming concerns and the distance of the journey, I find it difficult to bring my weakened body to visit you. Considering the duty of friendship, I feel both sorrowful and ashamed. I sincerely hope this letter brings you some comfort in this difficult time.
Respectfully written by Chamchoein Kim Dal-yeon on the 5th day of March, Year of the Metal Ox (Shinchuk).
