Legacy
"Ahn Jung-geun is hard to describe as a patriot because he made contributions to not only Korea, but all of the world. He had a certain view of our world and he regarded himself as the leader of peace."
- Professor Makino Eiji, who studies Ahn Jung-geun
Basic points of the "On Peace in East Asia":
"On Peace in East Asia" emphasized brotherhood between the three countries and the need to preserve Asian tradition. |
Why is Ahn important to us today?
Ahn Jung-geun symbolizes peace and freedom throughout East Asia. His unflagging dedication to and sacrifice for peace resonate with people today and that explains why Koreans and the Chinese revere Ahn as a hero. Even today, Ahn reminds people that all East Asian countries must cooperate to create a peaceful Asian sphere.
However, the fact that Japan continues to accuse Ahn of being a "terrorist" or "criminal,” without admitting flaws to its own government at the time shows how Japan is lingering in the past and not willing to move toward peace. Basically, Japan has adopted a narrow outlook to its history. While China and Korea have accepted Ahn, the symbol and reminder of peace and freedom, as a true hero, Japan continues to criticize Ahn.
However, the fact that Japan continues to accuse Ahn of being a "terrorist" or "criminal,” without admitting flaws to its own government at the time shows how Japan is lingering in the past and not willing to move toward peace. Basically, Japan has adopted a narrow outlook to its history. While China and Korea have accepted Ahn, the symbol and reminder of peace and freedom, as a true hero, Japan continues to criticize Ahn.