Lee Beom-seok (1900–1972) was a Korean independence activist and politician who played a significant role both during the Japanese colonial period and after Korea’s liberation. He participated in the Battle of Cheongsanri as a key commander of the independence forces, fighting fiercely against the Japanese army. He served as an instructor at the Shinheung Military Academy, dedicating himself to training independence fighters. Later, he joined the Northern Military Administration Office led by Kim Jwa-jin and became the head of the officer training department. In the Battle of Cheongsanri, he bravely led the charge and was instrumental in the success of the anti-Japanese armed resistance.
During the 1920s, Lee continued his activities in Manchuria and Russia, serving as the cavalry commander for the independence forces in various battles. He was later appointed Chief of Staff of the Korean Liberation Army, becoming a central figure in armed resistance against Japanese imperialism. Lee also played a key role in coordinating cooperation between the Korean Liberation Army and Allied forces during World War II, further contributing to the independence movement.
After Korea’s liberation, Lee founded the Korean National Youth Association, leading youth nationalist movements and working towards building a new nation. In 1948, he was appointed the first Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense of the newly established Republic of Korea, where he played a crucial role in founding the South Korean military and laying the foundations for the new government. His life was marked by relentless dedication, from leading armed resistance against Japanese colonialism to building the foundations of a newly liberated Korea.
