E2024-G003
Yeolsaga (The Songs of Patriotic Martyrs): The Beginning of Contemporary Creative Pansori
Narrative
Yeolsaga (The Songs of Patriotic Martyrs) is a series of works that weave together the biographical facts of Korea’s anti-Japanese resistance heroes, considered a pioneering piece of modern creative pansori (epic chant of Korea). This work was created by Bak Dong-sil (1897-1968), a master of the seopyeonje (western style) of pansori, who sought to vividly convey the lives of heroes who fought for the nation through traditional Korean music. The main figures in these works include Gwon Yul, Yi Sun-sin, Jeon Bong-jun, Yi Jun, Yu Gwan-sun, Yun Bong-gil, and An Jung-geun. Gwon Yul and Yi Sun-sin were brave commanders during the Japanese invasions of 1592-1598. Jeon Bong-jun was a leader of the Donghak Peasant Revolution, fighting for the rights of the people. Yi Jun served as a Hague envoy, striving diplomatically for Korea’s independence on the international stage. Yu Gwan-sun, Yun Bong-gil, and An Jung-geun were independence fighters who dedicated themselves to the liberation of Korea during the Japanese colonial period (1910-1945). The lyrics of The Songs of Patriotic Martyrs encapsulate their noble achievements and courage. In Gwangju, there are cultural heritage sites related to the figures featured in The Songs of Patriotic Martyrs, specifically An Jung-geun and Gwon Yul. The Steles in Gwangju Park include the Stele of Gwon Yul, while Jungoe Park features the Stele of An Jung-geun and his statue. These sites are deeply connected with the themes of The Songs of Patriotic Martyrs, allowing visitors to profoundly feel Korea’s grand history and yearning for independence.
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