Lineage and Family Environment
- 홈
- About Kansong
- Life
- Lineage and Family Environment
- Lineage and Family Environment
- Grief over National Ruin and Introspection
- Hannamseorim Bookstore and Bukdanjang Art Institute
- Bohwagak Art Museum and Passionate Collection
- Boseong Middle School and Hunminjeongeum
- The Korean War
- Cultural Properties Committee and the Art & Archaeology Magazine
The order of the universe is a marvel of intricacy. While creative forces shape our world, destructive elements inevitably emerge. Yet, when destruction reaches its zenith, protective forces invariably arise, sustaining hope for renewal. These guardians have enabled human civilization to progress through cycles of ascendance and decline. The Korean people have borne witness to the ebb and flow of their culture throughout their half-millennium history, experiencing both the euphoria of creation and the anguish of devastation.
In the mid-19th century, the wheel of history afforded Japan an opportunity to ravage Korean culture by swiftly embracing Western civilization and aligning itself with the Imperial Powers. On August 22, 1910, Japan coerced Emperor Gojong of the Daehan Empire into signing the Japan-Korea Annexation Treaty. The treaty’s proclamation, seven days later, coincided with Gojong’s forced abdication to his son, bringing the 519-year history of the Joseon Dynasty to a close after the reigns of 27 monarchs, and heralding the commencement of Japanese colonial rule in Korea.
This forced annexation paved the way for Japan, burdened by a sense of cultural indebtedness to its Sino-origins, to systematically destroy or appropriate Korea’s invaluable cultural treasures without compunction. Influential Japanese figures, including Ito Hirobumi (1841-1909) and Hayashi Konsuke (1890-1939)—architects of the 1905 Japan-Korea Treaty, commonly known as the Eulsa Treaty—and Terauchi Masadake (1852-1919), a key orchestrator of the Japan-Korea Annexation Treaty, recognized the inherent value of Goryeo celadon, Silla-period Buddhist statues, scriptures from various eras, and Joseon-period paintings, calligraphy, and literature. Consequently, they began to amass such works through clandestine means.
Japanese aggressors and their Korean collaborators pillaged ancient tombs and despoiled temples of their artifacts with impunity, engaging in acts that were anathema to traditional Korean customs. A multitude of cherished cultural properties fell into the hands of avaricious Japanese collectors, who viewed them as lucrative investments. Amidst this maelstrom of national ruination, the majority of Koreans found themselves too distraught and helpless to safeguard their cultural heritage.
Yet, like a full moon ascending in the pitch-black winter night sky, a remarkable individual emerged during this period of darkness to protect Korea’s time-honored cultural legacy from obliteration. This savior was Chun Hyung-pil (1906-1962), more widely known by his pen name, Kansong. An examination of his lineage provides insight into how he became a guardian saint of Korean cultural assets.
In the mid-19th century, the wheel of history afforded Japan an opportunity to ravage Korean culture by swiftly embracing Western civilization and aligning itself with the Imperial Powers. On August 22, 1910, Japan coerced Emperor Gojong of the Daehan Empire into signing the Japan-Korea Annexation Treaty. The treaty’s proclamation, seven days later, coincided with Gojong’s forced abdication to his son, bringing the 519-year history of the Joseon Dynasty to a close after the reigns of 27 monarchs, and heralding the commencement of Japanese colonial rule in Korea.
This forced annexation paved the way for Japan, burdened by a sense of cultural indebtedness to its Sino-origins, to systematically destroy or appropriate Korea’s invaluable cultural treasures without compunction. Influential Japanese figures, including Ito Hirobumi (1841-1909) and Hayashi Konsuke (1890-1939)—architects of the 1905 Japan-Korea Treaty, commonly known as the Eulsa Treaty—and Terauchi Masadake (1852-1919), a key orchestrator of the Japan-Korea Annexation Treaty, recognized the inherent value of Goryeo celadon, Silla-period Buddhist statues, scriptures from various eras, and Joseon-period paintings, calligraphy, and literature. Consequently, they began to amass such works through clandestine means.
Japanese aggressors and their Korean collaborators pillaged ancient tombs and despoiled temples of their artifacts with impunity, engaging in acts that were anathema to traditional Korean customs. A multitude of cherished cultural properties fell into the hands of avaricious Japanese collectors, who viewed them as lucrative investments. Amidst this maelstrom of national ruination, the majority of Koreans found themselves too distraught and helpless to safeguard their cultural heritage.
Yet, like a full moon ascending in the pitch-black winter night sky, a remarkable individual emerged during this period of darkness to protect Korea’s time-honored cultural legacy from obliteration. This savior was Chun Hyung-pil (1906-1962), more widely known by his pen name, Kansong. An examination of his lineage provides insight into how he became a guardian saint of Korean cultural assets.
According to A Comprehensive Genealogical Record of the Jeongseon Chun Clan (1929) and The Pedigree of the Jeongseon Chun Clan (1929), Kansong belonged to the Chaemiheon-gong branch of the Jeongseon Chun clan. Chaemiheon was the pen name of Chun Oryun, who served as a royal academy scholar, Deputy Director of Jinhyeongwan, and an official in the late Goryeo Department of Public Works Administration. Chun Oryun’s accomplishments as a scholar and official were so remarkable that Yi Saek (1328-1396, pen name Mogeun, a renowned writer, poet, and philosopher of late Goryeo) composed a prose piece elucidating his courtesy name, while Jeong Mongju (1337-1392, pen name Poeun, a revered politician, writer, poet, and thinker in late Goryeo) crafted a poem in tribute to him.
The Chaemiheon-gong branch is believed to have resided in Jeongseon for six generations, up to Chun Gwangwu (1498-1554), the Seonggyungwan-educated fourth great-grandson of Chaemiheon. Historical records indicate that the tomb of Chun Ilgyeong (1536-1597), the third son of Chun Gwangwu and Kansong’s 10th great-grandfather, was located in Buk-myeon, Gwangju-gun (present-day Gangnam-gu, Seoul), signifying the branch’s relocation to Seoul. Chun Ilgyeong’s second son, Chun Yeon (1554-1639), distinguished himself as a county magistrate during the suppression of the rebellion led by General Yi Gwal (1587-1624) in 1624. He established a family burial ground in Uigok, Haedeungchon, Yangju-gun (present-day Dobong-gu, Seoul).
These records demonstrate that the Chaemiheun-gong branch of the Jeongseon Chun clan established a permanent settlement in Seoul during the time of Kansong’s ninth great-grandfather. Chun Uiryeong (1602-1661), Kansong’s eighth great-grandfather and a lieutenant in the State Tribunal, was renowned for his benevolent nature. During the Manchu invasion of Korea in 1636, his family sought refuge in Hongcheon, Gangwon-do. While striving to provide for his family, Chun Uiryeong discovered a sack of rice concealed beneath a pile of fallen leaves inside a cave. Although the rice would have sustained his family for several days, he resisted the temptation to take it, considering the devastating impact it would have on the person who had hidden it.
Chun Uiryeong’s fourth great-grandson, Chun Seongsun (1760-1815), relocated the family base to Baeugae (present-day Jongno 4-ga) and gradually established commercial dominance in the area. The branch’s family burial ground was moved to Garak-dong, Jungdae-myeon, Gwangju-gun (present-day Garak-dong, Songpa-gu, Seoul). The family’s commercial ventures were significantly expanded by the eldest of Chun Seongsun’s four sons, Chun Hongju (1786-1838). Consequently, all three of Hongju’s sons became men of considerable means. Chun Hongju arranged the marriage of his eldest daughter to Choi Paengtaek from the Gyeongju Choi clan, who held the position of bailiff in the Office of Inspector-General. Chun Gyehun (1812-1890), the second son of Chun Hongju, passed the military service examination and attained the position of Gaseondaebu, a junior second rank, and Commanding General in Gyeongsang-do. In accordance with contemporary practice, which conferred posthumous honors on the father, paternal grandfather, and paternal great-grandfather of an official of second or first rank, Chun Hongju was posthumously awarded the titles of second minister in the Board of Works and deputy commander in the Five Military Commands Headquarters. Chun Hongju’s father and grandfather received posthumous honors as third minister in the Board of Works and fourth deputy commander in the Five Military Commands, respectively.
During Chun Gyehun’s generation, the Chun family secured commercial supremacy in Baeugae. Leveraging profits from their family enterprises, they acquired vast tracts of farmland in Wangsimni, Dapsim-ni, Cheongnyang-ni, and Garak-dong in Seoul, as well as coastal areas of Hwanghae-do, Gongju, and Seosan in Chungcheong-do. Consequently, the family emerged as proprietors of an extensive estate that yielded tens of thousands of sacks of rice annually. Kansong is a great-grandson of Chun Gyehun.
Chun Gyehun bore the courtesy name Yeojae and the pen name Seongjae. His eldest son, Chun Changyeop (1831-1915), used the courtesy name Saguk and the pen name Gyeongam, while the second son, Chun Changyeol (1838-1917), had the courtesy name Seongyeo and the pen name Junam. The two brothers and their families cohabited in the Baeugae residence constructed by their father (at 112 Jongno 4-ga), where they created separate entrances for privacy. Each of these affluent brothers owned land that produced tens of thousands of sacks of rice. Chun Changryeol also enjoyed a successful military career. After passing the military service examination, he held a junior fifth rank post in the Military Training Administration, served as magistrate of Ungcheon and Anhyeop Counties, and ultimately attained the position of commandant in the Palace Guards Headquarters, a junior second rank.
However, Chun Changryeol lacked a male heir and adopted the second son of Chun Changyeop, Chun Myeonggi (1870-1919). As the brothers Changryeol and Changyeop resided in the same compound, the adoption merely entailed Myeonggi’s relocation from one building to another within the premises.
Chun Changyeop’s eldest son was Chun Yeonggi (1865-1929), whose courtesy name was Yunjo and pen name was Okpo. Yeonggi commenced his official career by passing the military service examination and served as an advisor in the Privy Council. Chun Myeonggi bore the courtesy name Eonyeong and the pen name Dunam, and served as a clerk in the Interior Ministry and section chief in the Department of Royal Household, a senior third rank. The brothers, who were also first cousins due to the adoption, inherited and further augmented the substantial fortunes of previous generations.
Chun Yeonggi fathered two sons and four daughters. Kansong was born as the youngest child in the Baeugae residence on July 29, 1906, when Chun Yeonggi was 42 years old, and his wife from the Miryang Park clan (1862-1943) was 45 years old. Kansong’s mother was an aunt of the renowned poet Park Jonghwa (1900-1981, pen name Weoltan). Chun Hyeongseol (1892-1919), Kansong’s elder brother, was fourteen years his senior. At the time of Kansong’s birth, his grandparents, grand-uncle, and grand-aunt were all still living.
Chun Changyeop (grandfather) was 76 years old, and his wife from the Jeonju Lee clan was 74—remarkably long-lived considering the life expectancy of that era. Chun Changyeol (grand-uncle) and his wife from the Gimhae Kim clan were both 69 years old. All of them remained hale and hearty, enjoying contented marriages. Kansong’s father and uncle had both achieved success in their public careers and in their lending and commercial ventures in the Jongno area, living harmoniously in the same residence. One can only imagine the precious bundle of joy Kansong represented to this family blessed with such longevity and affluence.
Moreover, the family line of Chun Myeonggi, Kansong’s uncle adopted by Kansong’s grand-uncle, was on the brink of extinction due to Chun Myeonggi’s infertility. Shortly after birth, Kansong was adopted by Chun Myeonggi. As his biological and adoptive fathers lived in the same home, the adoption was largely nominal. Kansong received the full measure of love from both his biological and adoptive parents and grandparents.
The Chaemiheon-gong branch is believed to have resided in Jeongseon for six generations, up to Chun Gwangwu (1498-1554), the Seonggyungwan-educated fourth great-grandson of Chaemiheon. Historical records indicate that the tomb of Chun Ilgyeong (1536-1597), the third son of Chun Gwangwu and Kansong’s 10th great-grandfather, was located in Buk-myeon, Gwangju-gun (present-day Gangnam-gu, Seoul), signifying the branch’s relocation to Seoul. Chun Ilgyeong’s second son, Chun Yeon (1554-1639), distinguished himself as a county magistrate during the suppression of the rebellion led by General Yi Gwal (1587-1624) in 1624. He established a family burial ground in Uigok, Haedeungchon, Yangju-gun (present-day Dobong-gu, Seoul).
These records demonstrate that the Chaemiheun-gong branch of the Jeongseon Chun clan established a permanent settlement in Seoul during the time of Kansong’s ninth great-grandfather. Chun Uiryeong (1602-1661), Kansong’s eighth great-grandfather and a lieutenant in the State Tribunal, was renowned for his benevolent nature. During the Manchu invasion of Korea in 1636, his family sought refuge in Hongcheon, Gangwon-do. While striving to provide for his family, Chun Uiryeong discovered a sack of rice concealed beneath a pile of fallen leaves inside a cave. Although the rice would have sustained his family for several days, he resisted the temptation to take it, considering the devastating impact it would have on the person who had hidden it.
Chun Uiryeong’s fourth great-grandson, Chun Seongsun (1760-1815), relocated the family base to Baeugae (present-day Jongno 4-ga) and gradually established commercial dominance in the area. The branch’s family burial ground was moved to Garak-dong, Jungdae-myeon, Gwangju-gun (present-day Garak-dong, Songpa-gu, Seoul). The family’s commercial ventures were significantly expanded by the eldest of Chun Seongsun’s four sons, Chun Hongju (1786-1838). Consequently, all three of Hongju’s sons became men of considerable means. Chun Hongju arranged the marriage of his eldest daughter to Choi Paengtaek from the Gyeongju Choi clan, who held the position of bailiff in the Office of Inspector-General. Chun Gyehun (1812-1890), the second son of Chun Hongju, passed the military service examination and attained the position of Gaseondaebu, a junior second rank, and Commanding General in Gyeongsang-do. In accordance with contemporary practice, which conferred posthumous honors on the father, paternal grandfather, and paternal great-grandfather of an official of second or first rank, Chun Hongju was posthumously awarded the titles of second minister in the Board of Works and deputy commander in the Five Military Commands Headquarters. Chun Hongju’s father and grandfather received posthumous honors as third minister in the Board of Works and fourth deputy commander in the Five Military Commands, respectively.
During Chun Gyehun’s generation, the Chun family secured commercial supremacy in Baeugae. Leveraging profits from their family enterprises, they acquired vast tracts of farmland in Wangsimni, Dapsim-ni, Cheongnyang-ni, and Garak-dong in Seoul, as well as coastal areas of Hwanghae-do, Gongju, and Seosan in Chungcheong-do. Consequently, the family emerged as proprietors of an extensive estate that yielded tens of thousands of sacks of rice annually. Kansong is a great-grandson of Chun Gyehun.
Chun Gyehun bore the courtesy name Yeojae and the pen name Seongjae. His eldest son, Chun Changyeop (1831-1915), used the courtesy name Saguk and the pen name Gyeongam, while the second son, Chun Changyeol (1838-1917), had the courtesy name Seongyeo and the pen name Junam. The two brothers and their families cohabited in the Baeugae residence constructed by their father (at 112 Jongno 4-ga), where they created separate entrances for privacy. Each of these affluent brothers owned land that produced tens of thousands of sacks of rice. Chun Changryeol also enjoyed a successful military career. After passing the military service examination, he held a junior fifth rank post in the Military Training Administration, served as magistrate of Ungcheon and Anhyeop Counties, and ultimately attained the position of commandant in the Palace Guards Headquarters, a junior second rank.
However, Chun Changryeol lacked a male heir and adopted the second son of Chun Changyeop, Chun Myeonggi (1870-1919). As the brothers Changryeol and Changyeop resided in the same compound, the adoption merely entailed Myeonggi’s relocation from one building to another within the premises.
Chun Changyeop’s eldest son was Chun Yeonggi (1865-1929), whose courtesy name was Yunjo and pen name was Okpo. Yeonggi commenced his official career by passing the military service examination and served as an advisor in the Privy Council. Chun Myeonggi bore the courtesy name Eonyeong and the pen name Dunam, and served as a clerk in the Interior Ministry and section chief in the Department of Royal Household, a senior third rank. The brothers, who were also first cousins due to the adoption, inherited and further augmented the substantial fortunes of previous generations.
Chun Yeonggi fathered two sons and four daughters. Kansong was born as the youngest child in the Baeugae residence on July 29, 1906, when Chun Yeonggi was 42 years old, and his wife from the Miryang Park clan (1862-1943) was 45 years old. Kansong’s mother was an aunt of the renowned poet Park Jonghwa (1900-1981, pen name Weoltan). Chun Hyeongseol (1892-1919), Kansong’s elder brother, was fourteen years his senior. At the time of Kansong’s birth, his grandparents, grand-uncle, and grand-aunt were all still living.
Chun Changyeop (grandfather) was 76 years old, and his wife from the Jeonju Lee clan was 74—remarkably long-lived considering the life expectancy of that era. Chun Changyeol (grand-uncle) and his wife from the Gimhae Kim clan were both 69 years old. All of them remained hale and hearty, enjoying contented marriages. Kansong’s father and uncle had both achieved success in their public careers and in their lending and commercial ventures in the Jongno area, living harmoniously in the same residence. One can only imagine the precious bundle of joy Kansong represented to this family blessed with such longevity and affluence.
Moreover, the family line of Chun Myeonggi, Kansong’s uncle adopted by Kansong’s grand-uncle, was on the brink of extinction due to Chun Myeonggi’s infertility. Shortly after birth, Kansong was adopted by Chun Myeonggi. As his biological and adoptive fathers lived in the same home, the adoption was largely nominal. Kansong received the full measure of love from both his biological and adoptive parents and grandparents.
Kansong’s first birthday, 1907Kansong was extraordinary in numerous respects. From infancy, he was a strikingly beautiful child. It would not be an exaggeration to say that he possessed all of the 32 Marks of a Great Man. His well-formed features, silky skin, and fair complexion set Kansong apart.
Born with exceptional emotional and intellectual qualities, Kansong developed an early affinity for books and writing implements as he began to master reading and writing. He always handled them with care, maintaining their cleanliness and order. He also cultivated a passion for calligraphy and painting, delighting in displaying them on walls or meticulously preserving them in his study.
Born with exceptional emotional and intellectual qualities, Kansong developed an early affinity for books and writing implements as he began to master reading and writing. He always handled them with care, maintaining their cleanliness and order. He also cultivated a passion for calligraphy and painting, delighting in displaying them on walls or meticulously preserving them in his study.
Kansong was the focal point of his parents’ and grandparents’ affections, a fact corroborated by a photograph taken at the eightieth birthday celebration of Chun Changyeop (Kansong’s biological grandfather, born on November 6, 1910—coincidentally, the year of Japan’s annexation of Korea). The endearing and elegant boy in the luxurious fur winter cap positioned between Chun Changyeop and his wife is five-year-old Kansong. Chun Changyeop was the patriarch of one of Seoul’s wealthiest and most esteemed families. Who else but their cherished youngest grandson could have claimed the place between the couple? It is evident that Kansong was their pride and joy.
Chun Changyeop, who had so deeply cherished Kansong, passed away on July 28, 1915, at the age of 85—a day before Kansong’s birthday. The following year, Kansong’s adoptive grandmother from the Gimhae Kim clan (1838-1916) departed this life at age 79. Their demise cast a pall over the Chun family, which had long been blessed with longevity and prosperity.
Chun Changyeop, who had so deeply cherished Kansong, passed away on July 28, 1915, at the age of 85—a day before Kansong’s birthday. The following year, Kansong’s adoptive grandmother from the Gimhae Kim clan (1838-1916) departed this life at age 79. Their demise cast a pall over the Chun family, which had long been blessed with longevity and prosperity.
Eightieth birthday feast of Changyeop (Kansong’s biological grandfather), 1910Unlike Chun Changyeop, who had styled himself as an urban hermit and eschewed public office, Chun Changyeol (Kansong’s adoptive grandfather) believed Kansong should receive a modern education. At the behest of Chun Myeonggi (Changyeol’s adoptive son and Kansong’s adoptive father), a modern intellectual, Kansong was enrolled in Eoidong Public Common School, the precursor to Hyoje Elementary School, in the spring of 1917. At that time, Kansong was 12 years old and still in mourning for his biological grandfather and adoptive grandmother.
However, misfortunes often compound. On November 5, 1917, Chun Changyeol passed away at the age of 80. Two months later, on January 12, 1918, Kansong’s biological grandmother from the Jeonju Lee clan followed, departing at the venerable age of 87. As if by some cosmic design, the most senior members of the Chun family, who had lived in wealth and honor under the same roof for over eight decades, departed this world in rapid succession within a span of three years. From the time Kansong was ten years old, the family was engulfed in a seemingly endless cycle of mourning.
As if being jealous of the affluent family, the Grim Reaper kept stalking the Chuns. Even before the three-year mourning periods for the two grandparents were up, Kansong suffered the loss of his adoptive father on October 27, 1919. Chun Myeonggi was only 50 years old. It appears that Myeonggi’s body and soul had become exhausted as a result of the series of family bereavements.
Fate, as if envious of the family’s affluence, continued to visit tragedy upon the Chuns. Even before the three-year mourning periods for the two grandparents had concluded, Kansong endured the loss of his adoptive father on October 27, 1919. Chun Myeonggi was a mere 50 years old. It appears that the succession of family bereavements had taken a severe toll on Myeonggi’s physical and spiritual well-being.
Since the Chuns had established their settlement in Baeugae, longevity had been a hallmark of the family. Kansong’s great-grandfather, Chun Gyehun, and great-grandmother had lived to 79 and 78 years, respectively. Consequently, Chun Myeonggi’s death at the age of 50 came as a profound shock. Now, at the tender age of fourteen, Kansong was thrust into the roles of chief mourner and family head, grappling with the sorrow of losing his beloved grandparents and adoptive father. It must have seemed as though his world had been shattered.
Chun Myeonggi’s passing occurred before the daesang rite marking the conclusion of the second year in the three-year mourning period for Chun Changyeol. With Chun Myeonggi’s death, Kansong assumed responsibility for the daesang of both his adoptive grandfather and adoptive father. However, Kansong’s streak of misfortune had yet to run its course. Chun Hyeongseol (1892-1919), Kansong’s biological brother and the heir to Kansong’s biological family line, unexpectedly died on November 10, 1919, at the age of 28, without having sired a son to continue the family lineage. This occurred a mere two weeks after Chun Myeonggi’s death and five days following Chun Changyeol’s daesang. The sudden demise of his brother struck Kansong with the force of a thunderbolt.
It had been due to his older brother’s presence that Kansong, at fourteen years of age, had been able to fulfill the role of chief mourner. Residing in the same house, Hyeongseol had diligently looked after Kansong. Just as the three-year mourning period for Kansong’s adoptive father commenced, Kansong lost his sole biological brother, plunging him into unfathomable dejection and sorrow.
In the wake of these familial calamities in 1919, the once-charming young man grew increasingly somber. Kansong engaged in profound contemplation about life, wealth, honor, and the future—both his own and that of his family. Furthermore, he began to contemplate the future of his country and its people, as the passing of Emperor Gojong brought home the stark reality of national ruin. He could no longer remain the privileged young man who had grown up without tribulation under the roof of one of Seoul’s most prosperous families. It was during this tumultuous period that Kansong began to formulate his life’s purpose and conduct, although the specifics remained nebulous. The calamities that befell his family catalyzed Kansong’s rapid maturation
As the sole surviving son of both his biological and adoptive parents, Kansong became heir to the substantial fortunes of the two families, in accordance with the customs of the time. His parents’ concerns and expectations for Kansong must have been immense. Undoubtedly, there were many who envied Kansong and sought to lead him astray. To safeguard himself, Kansong cultivated a more reserved and prudent demeanor.
However, misfortunes often compound. On November 5, 1917, Chun Changyeol passed away at the age of 80. Two months later, on January 12, 1918, Kansong’s biological grandmother from the Jeonju Lee clan followed, departing at the venerable age of 87. As if by some cosmic design, the most senior members of the Chun family, who had lived in wealth and honor under the same roof for over eight decades, departed this world in rapid succession within a span of three years. From the time Kansong was ten years old, the family was engulfed in a seemingly endless cycle of mourning.
As if being jealous of the affluent family, the Grim Reaper kept stalking the Chuns. Even before the three-year mourning periods for the two grandparents were up, Kansong suffered the loss of his adoptive father on October 27, 1919. Chun Myeonggi was only 50 years old. It appears that Myeonggi’s body and soul had become exhausted as a result of the series of family bereavements.
Fate, as if envious of the family’s affluence, continued to visit tragedy upon the Chuns. Even before the three-year mourning periods for the two grandparents had concluded, Kansong endured the loss of his adoptive father on October 27, 1919. Chun Myeonggi was a mere 50 years old. It appears that the succession of family bereavements had taken a severe toll on Myeonggi’s physical and spiritual well-being.
Since the Chuns had established their settlement in Baeugae, longevity had been a hallmark of the family. Kansong’s great-grandfather, Chun Gyehun, and great-grandmother had lived to 79 and 78 years, respectively. Consequently, Chun Myeonggi’s death at the age of 50 came as a profound shock. Now, at the tender age of fourteen, Kansong was thrust into the roles of chief mourner and family head, grappling with the sorrow of losing his beloved grandparents and adoptive father. It must have seemed as though his world had been shattered.
Chun Myeonggi’s passing occurred before the daesang rite marking the conclusion of the second year in the three-year mourning period for Chun Changyeol. With Chun Myeonggi’s death, Kansong assumed responsibility for the daesang of both his adoptive grandfather and adoptive father. However, Kansong’s streak of misfortune had yet to run its course. Chun Hyeongseol (1892-1919), Kansong’s biological brother and the heir to Kansong’s biological family line, unexpectedly died on November 10, 1919, at the age of 28, without having sired a son to continue the family lineage. This occurred a mere two weeks after Chun Myeonggi’s death and five days following Chun Changyeol’s daesang. The sudden demise of his brother struck Kansong with the force of a thunderbolt.
It had been due to his older brother’s presence that Kansong, at fourteen years of age, had been able to fulfill the role of chief mourner. Residing in the same house, Hyeongseol had diligently looked after Kansong. Just as the three-year mourning period for Kansong’s adoptive father commenced, Kansong lost his sole biological brother, plunging him into unfathomable dejection and sorrow.
In the wake of these familial calamities in 1919, the once-charming young man grew increasingly somber. Kansong engaged in profound contemplation about life, wealth, honor, and the future—both his own and that of his family. Furthermore, he began to contemplate the future of his country and its people, as the passing of Emperor Gojong brought home the stark reality of national ruin. He could no longer remain the privileged young man who had grown up without tribulation under the roof of one of Seoul’s most prosperous families. It was during this tumultuous period that Kansong began to formulate his life’s purpose and conduct, although the specifics remained nebulous. The calamities that befell his family catalyzed Kansong’s rapid maturation
As the sole surviving son of both his biological and adoptive parents, Kansong became heir to the substantial fortunes of the two families, in accordance with the customs of the time. His parents’ concerns and expectations for Kansong must have been immense. Undoubtedly, there were many who envied Kansong and sought to lead him astray. To safeguard himself, Kansong cultivated a more reserved and prudent demeanor.
The thirteenth graduating class of Eoidong Pulic Common School, 1921Evidence of Kansong’s precocity can be found in the graduation photograph of the thirteenth graduating class of Eouidong Public Common School, taken on March 22, 1921. Kansong is positioned at the far right of the fourth row. Although of diminutive stature, the elegant young man in white mourning attire (as he was still in mourning for his adoptive father) exuded a maturity beyond his years.
Kansong’s entry into modern schooling was delayed until the age of twelve, as his biological grandfather, Chun Changyeop, had harbored reservations about modern education. Born in the late Joseon period, Chun Changyeop had shown little interest in holding public office during those turbulent times, focusing instead on augmenting the family’s wealth. It was only after Chun Changyeop’s passing that Kansong was enrolled in Eouidong Public Common School to receive a modern education, thanks to the efforts of his adoptive father, who served as section chief in the Department of Royal Household, and his adoptive grandfather, who was chief of the Palace Guards. Ironically, both men passed away while Kansong was attending the four-year modern school, necessitating his wearing of mourning attire at graduation. One can only imagine the bittersweet emotions Kansong must have experienced in that moment.
Kansong’s entry into modern schooling was delayed until the age of twelve, as his biological grandfather, Chun Changyeop, had harbored reservations about modern education. Born in the late Joseon period, Chun Changyeop had shown little interest in holding public office during those turbulent times, focusing instead on augmenting the family’s wealth. It was only after Chun Changyeop’s passing that Kansong was enrolled in Eouidong Public Common School to receive a modern education, thanks to the efforts of his adoptive father, who served as section chief in the Department of Royal Household, and his adoptive grandfather, who was chief of the Palace Guards. Ironically, both men passed away while Kansong was attending the four-year modern school, necessitating his wearing of mourning attire at graduation. One can only imagine the bittersweet emotions Kansong must have experienced in that moment.
It was a blessing that Kansong’s loving biological parents and adoptive mother remained alive and well, alleviating the burden of managing family affairs. Upon graduating from Eoidong Public Common School, Kansong matriculated at Whimun High Common School. Although still a high school student, it is understandable that the senior members of the family pressured Kansong, the family’s sole heir, to produce a son to perpetuate the family line, given the customs of the era. Immediately following the conclusion of the three-year mourning period for his adoptive father on October 27, 1921, Kansong married in the spring of 1922 at the age of 17, while a second-year student at Whimun High.
His wife (1905-1922), a daughter of Lee Jongu from the Goseong Lee clan, was Kansong’s senior by a year. On June 21, 1922, merely months after their nuptials, Kansong suffered the loss of his wife in yet another tragic turn of events. A year later, in 1923, Kansong remarried at the age of 18, now a high school senior. His second wife was Kim Jeomsun (1905-1988), a daughter of Kim Changseop from the Gimhae Kim clan, who would later serve as the chairperson of the Boseong Middle and High School Foundation for 26 years.
His wife (1905-1922), a daughter of Lee Jongu from the Goseong Lee clan, was Kansong’s senior by a year. On June 21, 1922, merely months after their nuptials, Kansong suffered the loss of his wife in yet another tragic turn of events. A year later, in 1923, Kansong remarried at the age of 18, now a high school senior. His second wife was Kim Jeomsun (1905-1988), a daughter of Kim Changseop from the Gimhae Kim clan, who would later serve as the chairperson of the Boseong Middle and High School Foundation for 26 years.
While he was the sole heir to one of the country’s most distinguished bloodlines, Kansong comported himself as any other student at school. He demonstrated both intellectual prowess and athletic talent. The romantic young man also harbored a deep appreciation for music and the arts.
As soon as he was admitted to Whimun High, Kansong joined the baseball team and played a significant part in many of the team’s victories. Several pictures of Kansong as a high-school baseball player survive.
Upon his admission to Whimun High, Kansong joined the baseball team and played a pivotal role in many of the team’s victories. Several photographs of Kansong as a high school baseball player have survived. In his fourth year, Kansong assumed the role of team captain. He also encouraged his adoptive younger brother, Chun Hyeongcheol (1909-?), who had become a first-year student at Whimun High, to join the team.
Subsequently, they trained together and shared in the exhilaration of numerous victories. In a commemorative photograph taken after their triumph over Osaka Middle School, Kansong stood directly behind his younger brother. Chun Hyeongcheol is positioned at the far left in the front row, while Kansong is the second from the left in the second row. Another photograph captures the team competing against Baejae High Common School on the latter’s grounds in 1925.
As soon as he was admitted to Whimun High, Kansong joined the baseball team and played a significant part in many of the team’s victories. Several pictures of Kansong as a high-school baseball player survive.
Upon his admission to Whimun High, Kansong joined the baseball team and played a pivotal role in many of the team’s victories. Several photographs of Kansong as a high school baseball player have survived. In his fourth year, Kansong assumed the role of team captain. He also encouraged his adoptive younger brother, Chun Hyeongcheol (1909-?), who had become a first-year student at Whimun High, to join the team.
Subsequently, they trained together and shared in the exhilaration of numerous victories. In a commemorative photograph taken after their triumph over Osaka Middle School, Kansong stood directly behind his younger brother. Chun Hyeongcheol is positioned at the far left in the front row, while Kansong is the second from the left in the second row. Another photograph captures the team competing against Baejae High Common School on the latter’s grounds in 1925.
Kansong as a baseball player at Hwimun High Common School, 1923
Hwimun High Common School baseball team after defeating Osaka Middle School, 1924At the far left in the front row is Chun Hyeongcheol and the second from the left in the second row is Kansong. There is also a picture of the team playing against Baejae High Common School at the latter’s school ground in 1925.
During this period, the art club president was Lee Madong (1906-1981, pen name Cheonggu), who would later become the dean of the College of Fine Arts at Hongik University after serving as an art teacher and then vice-principal of Boseong School. The soccer team captain was Park Jeonghwi (pen name Byeogeun), who would subsequently become an English and discipline teacher at Boseong School. Kansong, Lee Madong, and Park Jeonghwi formed a tight-knit trio, their camaraderie reminiscent of the three musketeers.
During this period, the art club president was Lee Madong (1906-1981, pen name Cheonggu), who would later become the dean of the College of Fine Arts at Hongik University after serving as an art teacher and then vice-principal of Boseong School. The soccer team captain was Park Jeonghwi (pen name Byeogeun), who would subsequently become an English and discipline teacher at Boseong School. Kansong, Lee Madong, and Park Jeonghwi formed a tight-knit trio, their camaraderie reminiscent of the three musketeers.
Beyond his vibrant school life, Kansong nurtured a private passion for reading and collecting books. He frequented the town’s bookstores at every opportunity, acquiring both new and old volumes in hanja that caught his interest. Kansong’s parents were delighted by his fervor for book collecting and offered their encouragement. In his essay titled Collection of Writings and Scattered Records, Kansong wrote, “My family’s understanding was a great boon to my book collection. My late father and mother took pleasure in seeing me return home with books under my arm and never expressed displeasure.”
While Kansong’s primary motivation for collecting books was to read them, he was also drawn to volumes with novel bindings or intriguing formats. Endowed with an extraordinary aesthetic sensibility, Kansong found it difficult to resist anything of beauty.
His experience in book collecting would later fuel his passion for amassing formative arts from earlier generations, which are now cherished as cultural properties of Korea. However, at this juncture, no one had yet discerned his burgeoning aspiration. Those close to him were aware only that Kansong was exceptionally meticulous, with a talent for preserving items with great care.
The year 1925 marked Kansong’s fifth and final year at Whimun High, and he resolved to pursue university studies in Tokyo upon graduation. He was eager to witness firsthand the capital city of Japan, the nation that had colonized his homeland.
While Kansong’s primary motivation for collecting books was to read them, he was also drawn to volumes with novel bindings or intriguing formats. Endowed with an extraordinary aesthetic sensibility, Kansong found it difficult to resist anything of beauty.
His experience in book collecting would later fuel his passion for amassing formative arts from earlier generations, which are now cherished as cultural properties of Korea. However, at this juncture, no one had yet discerned his burgeoning aspiration. Those close to him were aware only that Kansong was exceptionally meticulous, with a talent for preserving items with great care.
The year 1925 marked Kansong’s fifth and final year at Whimun High, and he resolved to pursue university studies in Tokyo upon graduation. He was eager to witness firsthand the capital city of Japan, the nation that had colonized his homeland.