Na Cheol (1863–1916)
After Japan’s annexation of Korea in 1910, Na Cheol founded Daedonggyo, a nationalist religious movement aimed at awakening patriotic spirit and moral strength among Koreans. He also organized the Korean Liberation Association, a secret resistance group that promoted anti-Japanese sentiment, spread nationalist ideas, and supported armed struggles in Manchuria and Korea.
Working closely with exile communities and independence fighters, Na provided both ideological leadership and practical assistance to the liberation cause. In 1916, facing ill health and despair over the nation’s plight, he ended his life in protest against Japanese rule. He is remembered as a spiritual leader of Korea’s early independence movement.
Translation:
I humbly hope that your spiritual and physical well-being remains in peace.
I have just received a letter from Geon Island, and it mentions that the headquarters in the East urgently needs two copies of the Wonyangjip and is asking to have them sent immediately. However, since this book is not for sale and cannot be purchased, what should we do? The two copies that were sent in the spring have already been distributed to our brothers in East and West Gando, and there is currently no way to obtain more. Therefore, I earnestly request that you inquire if it is possible to obtain even one copy specially. How grateful we would be if this could be arranged!
I also hear that the literati on Geon Island are eagerly seeking this book.
Respectfully,
Your younger brother, Cheol.
