Page 57 - NAKS MAC 2026 EBook

2026년 독립기념 ‘코리아 리뷰’ 에세이

The Enduring Fortitude of American and Korean Independence

By Su Ann Lee

A nation’s independence may be declared in a moment, but the perseverance required to
achieve it is measured in years, sacrifices, and lives. Spanning from the chaotic Boston Massacre
to the staggering 17,000 who were guillotined in the French Revolution, history has proven the
expensive nature of freedom time after time. Thus, the liberty that America proudly boasts can
be described as a culmination of endless perseverance.

As such, America took the better of eight years and the lives of 25,000 men to gain autonomy
from Great Britain. 127 years later, Korea likewise became subject to Japanese authoritarianism,
and in a similar manner to the US, entertained a series of insurrections. The Korean people
dwelled helplessly amongst this colonial period for 35 years and lost 500 to over 7,500 people
who put up their lives for their country.

Of course, these examples barely scratch the surface of large-scale rebellions throughout
centuries. Despite having happened across different times in history and scattered across the
globe, the French, Haitian, Indian, and countless other revolutions all fought for one purpose:
domestic autonomy. These insurgencies, as gruesome as they may have been, bequeath the
importance of perseverance to modern-day society.

But of what use is it if we merely understand this importance? Perhaps the most critical aspect
beyond comprehension is the active continuation of fortitude. The Founding Fathers have
demonstrated this very notion, showing how perseverance and political defiance can be an
anchor towards success. In the easternmost part of the globe, Korea underwent its own fight
with strong tenacity, ultimately freeing itself from Japan’s rule.

To illustrate, Yu Gwan-sun—a student 16 years of age at Ewha Girls’ School—organized and led
local protests during the 1919 uprising, becoming a central figure for her leadership despite her
young age. Similarly, Alexander Hamilton was just 17 years old when he began advocating for
American independence, publishing his famous political pamphlet, “A Full Vindication of the
Measures of Congress” which defended the First Continental Congress. Both advocates were
without a doubt, quite young amidst their political endeavors. However, this was by no means a
limitation to their passionate remonstrance.

Considering how young Hamilton and Yu were at the time of their advocacy, today’s youth
should take on a similar willingness to fight against injustices. Oftentimes, due to societal norms
that have changed throughout history, most 16 and 17 year olds in modern society are expected
to attend school, study, and focus on building a stabilized future. While academic diligence is
indeed essential, so is political dissent regardless of age.

Along with advocacy, an unrelenting persistence is another trait that can be practiced and
learned from our predecessors. When such persistence is demonstrated by a collective group
driven by a singular purpose, nothing can diminish the power of the group’s voice. The March 1st
Movement of Korea, also known as the Samil Movement, epitomizes this very idea.

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