Global Economic Times

Homer Hulbert's Noble Life and Love for Korea, Re-illuminated by the Publication of the English Edition of 'What About KOREA?': KO YONG-CHUL Reporter / Updated : 2025-04-17 20:09:31

The eventful life and dedicated love for Korea of Dr. Homer Bezaleel Hulbert (1863-1949), a figure deeply respected in both Korea and the United States, are being re-illuminated with the recent publication of the English edition of his book 'What About KOREA?', drawing keen attention from academia and related organizations. This book, meticulously written by Kim Dong-jin, Chairman of the Homer Hulbert Memorial Society, details Dr. Hulbert's multifaceted aspects and immortal achievements as an educator, a scholar of Hangeul, a historian, a journalist, a secret envoy of Emperor Gojong, and an independence activist, through three years of extensive research.

In 1886, upon the earnest invitation of Emperor Gojong, Dr. Hulbert set foot on Korean soil and made remarkable contributions to the introduction of modern education and the study of Koreanology. Serving as a teacher at Yukyoung Gongwon (Royal English School), he devoted himself to teaching new academic subjects. In particular, he immersed himself in the study of the Korean language and Hangeul, leaving behind valuable academic works such as 'A Comparative Grammar of the Korean Language and the Dravidian Dialects of India' and 'Hulbert's Korean-English Dictionary'. These works not only played a crucial role in introducing Korea and its culture to Western society at the time but are also regarded as foundational achievements in Korean language research.

As Japan's ambition for invasion became blatant, Dr. Hulbert went beyond being a mere educator to become an ardent advocate for Korean independence. He actively worked to inform the international community about the injustice of Japan's colonial rule. Especially after the Eulsa Treaty of 1905 and during the Hague Peace Conference of 1907, he visited the United States and The Hague as a special envoy of Emperor Gojong, denouncing Japan's coercive acts of aggression and earnestly appealing for the restoration of Korea's sovereignty. His dedicated efforts significantly contributed to raising international awareness and highlighting the legitimacy of the Korean independence movement.

Even after the March 1st Independence Movement in 1919, Dr. Hulbert's devotion to Korean independence did not cease. He submitted a powerful appeal titled 'What About KOREA?' to the U.S. Senate, detailing the brutal realities of Japanese imperialistic colonial rule and strongly urging for Korea's independence. His heartfelt plea resonated greatly with the international community at the time and played a vital role in forming international support for the Korean independence movement.

His lifelong confession, "I would rather be buried in Korea than in Westminster Abbey," vividly demonstrates his deep affection and dedication to Korea. In accordance with his will, Dr. Hulbert was laid to rest in the Yanghwajin Foreigners' Cemetery in Seoul after his passing in 1949. The Korean government posthumously awarded him the Order of Merit for National Foundation, Taegeuk Medal, in 1950 in recognition of his distinguished service, and further honored his noble spirit with the Order of Cultural Merit, Gold Crown, in 2014.

The newly published English edition of 'What About KOREA?' deeply explores his diverse life and achievements based on various materials left by Dr. Hulbert, including memoirs, articles, letters, and press reports. This book vividly portrays his dedication as an educator, his passion as a scholar of Hangeul, his insight as a historian, his courage as a journalist, his loyalty as an imperial envoy, and his noble devotion as an independence activist, promising to offer profound inspiration and enlightenment to readers in both Korea and the United States.

Kim Dong-jin, Chairman of the Homer Hulbert Memorial Society, stated in his publication remarks, "Dr. Hulbert was not just a foreign educator but a great individual who sincerely loved Korea and its people. I hope that this book will serve as a precious opportunity for more people to remember Dr. Hulbert's immortal achievements and reflect on his noble spirit."

The Memorial Society plans to distribute this English edition free of charge to the White House, Congress, state libraries, and major think tanks in the United States to widely promote Dr. Hulbert's accomplishments and his dedication to Korea. Additionally, on March 28th, they held a grand publication 기념회 (commemorative event) at the Seoul YMCA, inviting representatives from liberation organizations, Hangeul societies, and academia to honor Dr. Hulbert's life and spirit. It is anticipated that the publication of this English edition will further disseminate Dr. Hulbert's great achievements and positively contribute to the promotion of friendship between Korea and the United States.