Even in a society where the value of calligraphy is often underappreciated, there are works that fetch over 500 million won per piece. One such example is Ahn Jung-geun’s semi-cursive hanging scroll *”Hwanggeumbaekmannyang Bulyoilgyoja”* (黃金白萬兩 不如一敎子, “A hundred million pieces of gold are not worth the education of a single child”), which sold for 730 million won at auction in September 2016. His piece *”Inmuwollyeo Pil-yugeonu”* (人無遠慮 必有近憂, “If one does not think ahead, near worries will inevitably arise”) was auctioned in 2008 for 550 million won, and *”Mosa-jaein Seongsa-jaecheon”* (謀事在人 成事在天, “Man plans, but success depends on Heaven”) fetched 460 million won in 2006.
Why is Ahn Jung-geun’s calligraphy so expensive? Is it because of the quality of his writing, or his character? Many argue that it’s due to his character, noting that the calligraphy itself is not exceptional. However, upon closer examination, his calligraphy reaches an extraordinarily high level, marked by distinct uniqueness. His iconic handprint, made with his amputated finger, is a stunning highlight. Given that he wrote “Great Korean Ahn Jung-geun” just before his execution, the emotional impact speaks for itself. The market’s judgment is often more accurate and impartial than that of experts.
His calligraphy radiates sharpness like the point of a needle, with a powerful spirit and an aura as chilling as frost. It exudes a level of mastery that feels unapproachable. The strokes are thick, precise, and exude elegance and composure, embodying strength and courage. The robust energy and dignity emanating from his writing are so imposing that standing before it can feel overwhelming. A distinctive feature of the handwriting of anti-Japanese activists is the “angles,” representing a manifestation of strong will. Ahn Jung-geun’s calligraphy is exemplary of this, revealing a man of firm and righteous character. The strong pressure of his brushstrokes indicates an abundance of energy. The spacing between his characters and lines suggests a deep sense of self-confidence as well as consideration for others. Even if Ahn had been born in another era, he would undoubtedly have achieved great things.
