An Jung-geun
안중근
KoreanKorean Empire/Japanese Colonial Period (1879-1910)
"The Patriotic Assassin, Korean Independence Hero"
✦ Personality Traits
✦ About
An Jung-geun (1879-1910) was a Korean independence activist who assassinated Japanese statesman Itō Hirobumi at Harbin Station in 1909. His act of resistance against Japanese colonial aggression made him Korea's most celebrated independence hero.
Before becoming an assassin, An Jung-geun was a Catholic educator and businessman who organized righteous armies against Japanese encroachment. When diplomatic efforts failed and Korea lost its sovereignty, he determined that direct action was necessary.
After his arrest, An Jung-geun conducted himself with such dignity that even his Japanese captors admired him. He wrote extensively about East Asian peace, arguing that Japanese imperialism would ultimately destroy Japan itself. He was executed at 30, becoming a martyr whose sacrifice inspired the Korean independence movement for decades.
✦ Famous Story
At his trial, An Jung-geun did not beg for mercy but instead listed 15 crimes of Itō Hirobumi against Korea and Asia. His calm, principled defense impressed even the Japanese judges. His final calligraphy read: 'For Korean independence, for East Asian peace.'
✦ If You Match
Your features carry the patriotic determination of An Jung-geun. There is a sacrificing, principled quality to your presence—the look of one who gives everything for their nation's freedom.