Kim Dong-sin (1871-1933) was a Righteous Army leader who played a key role as a vanguard in Min Jong-sik’s militia after the signing of the Eulsa Treaty. His family origin was from Gyeongju, his courtesy name was Wonpyo (元表), and his pen name was Cheongam (淸菴). Born in Hoedeok County, Chungcheongnam-do, he was one of the leading figures in the Righteous Army movement during the Japanese colonial period.
On March 26, 1906, Kim Dong-sin joined Min Jong-sik’s militia and was appointed as a vanguard. He then moved to Jawonam in Deogyusan, Muju County, Jeollabuk-do, to organize the militia and prepare weapons. In 1907, after Emperor Gojong was forcibly dethroned and the Korean army was disbanded, nationwide Righteous Army movements erupted. Kim Dong-sin, along with Gi U-man and Go Gwang-sun, gathered the militia at Naejangsan in Jeongeup County, Jeollabuk-do, and led anti-Japanese resistance.
Kim Dong-sin conducted raids on the post office and police advisory branch in Sunchang, and he achieved victories in battles against the Japanese army in Namwon. In February 1908, he inflicted heavy damage on the Japanese forces during a battle in Gurang, Yongdam County. He continued his militia activities, engaging in further battles in Geochang County, Gyeongsangnam-do.
However, later that year, Kim fell ill and returned to his hometown for treatment, but he was arrested by Japanese police in June 1908. He was sentenced to life imprisonment by the Gongju District Court and served a lengthy prison sentence.
In recognition of Kim Dong-sin’s contributions, he was posthumously awarded the Order of Merit for National Foundation in 1977.
Translation:
The conversation we had during our last meeting was a great comfort to me. After humbly receiving your letter, I was reassured and glad to hear that you are in good health despite the recent chilly weather. As for me, I am relieved that our parents are doing well as usual, but I am deeply troubled and burdened by the chaos caused by public duties. How can I express this anguish? I have humbly understood what you mentioned, and this is not something I have urged for myself, but rather due to the current situation that forces such action. Although you, following the principles of duty, have made your contributions generously, the fact that the amount was reduced on the list you sent reflects that full efforts were not made. I should return the list, but I hesitated, not wanting to harm the respect we hold for one another. Therefore, I have no choice but to accept it for now, and I hope we can settle this matter when we meet again. I trust you will kindly understand.
As the surroundings are noisy, I must reply hastily.
On the 25th, your younger brother, Dongsin bows.
