Forgotten Korean Suicide Attacker ‘Hero’ celebrated by Imperial Japan: Park Gwan-bin (박관빈, 朴官彬) charged into an Allied machine-gun nest clutching an anti-tank explosive during the Burma Campaign in Dec. 1944

In the annals of forgotten history, few figures exemplify the complex and tragic reality of Korean soldiers in the Imperial Japanese Army quite like Park Gwan-bin (朴官彬), who is featured in the following propaganda news articles from January 1945 that are translated and transcribed below. 

Park Gwan-bin

Park, hailing from a rural village in Wiwon County in northern Korea, volunteered for the Imperial Army and met his death in Burma in December 1944 during the Burma campaign, charging into an enemy position while clutching an anti-tank explosive. His suicide attack destroyed a fortified machine-gun nest, paving the way for his comrades’ advance. The Imperial Japanese press at the time lavishly honored him, painting him as a model of unwavering loyalty and sacrifice as a land-based kamikaze attacker. His heroism was not only a personal achievement but a shared glory, extending to his family, his village, and even his entire county. As the articles show, his nine family members—including his parents, wife, daughter, younger brother, and uncle—were publicly associated with his 'martyrdom', an honor that might have carried tangible social and economic benefits.

The party leader of the Korean Federation of National Power (国民総力朝鮮連盟, 국민총력조선연맹), the monolithic party that ruled Korea under Japanese occupation, also celebrated Park’s sacrifice, tying it to Korea’s collective wartime contribution. The party leader also eulogized Lim Jang-su (림장수, 林長守), a Korean kamikaze pilot who destroyed a U.S. Navy vessel in the Philippines in a December 7, 1944 attack, as well as Matsui Hideo, originally named In Jae-ung (인재웅, 印在雄), another Korean kamikaze pilot who also died in the Philippines in a November 29, 1944 attack. In Jae-ung was quite possibly the first Korean kamikaze pilot ever to die in combat. A translation of a brief biographical article about In Jae-ung from the NHK Japanese news service is provided at the end of this post.

Park’s sacrifice was not only a source of honor for his family but also for various stakeholders who basked in his reflected glory. The county governor openly expressed his pride in having such a hero emerge from his jurisdiction, while the director of the training center in Pyongyang, where Park was trained, also took great pride in producing a soldier of such loyalty and valor. Even Park’s squad leader, his student company commander, and the captain who oversaw his training days were drawn into the celebration of his heroism, their reputations enhanced by their association with him. These layers of commemoration indicate that battlefield martyrdom was not merely an individual act but a means to elevate an entire network of people—from local officials to military instructors—who could claim a connection to the fallen hero.

Aside from the two celebrated kamikaze pilots, this article also briefly mentions other Korean “martyrs” in passing, like Lee In-seok, who is known to be the first Korean Imperial Army soldier to be killed in battle during the Second Sino-Japanese War. Unfortunately, other Korean soldiers referenced in the article remain frustratingly obscure, with little to no available information. This is an area where historians could pick up where existing research has failed.

Had Imperial Japan won the war, figures like Park Gwan-bin and Lim Jang-su would likely be Korean national icons today, with monuments erected in their honor, buildings named after them, schoolchildren learning their stories, and their spirits venerated in national ceremonies facing Yasukuni Shrine. They would have been ubiquitous in state propaganda, enshrined as the ultimate symbols of Korean loyalty to the Empire. But in our timeline, they are nearly forgotten, their stories buried in the shadows of history, and uncovering even fragments of their lives is an immense challenge. 

One translation decision that I made in this post was to list his name as Park Gwan-bin, even though the original newspaper articles only referred to him by his Japanized name, Bokumura (朴村). While I do not have explicit evidence that his original Korean name was Park, the fact that his Japanized surname incorporates the Hanja (Chinese character) for Park (朴) makes it a strong assumption. 

Given that different newspaper reports from January 29 and January 30, 1945, list different ages and identities for Park’s family members, discrepancies likely arose due to language barriers—his rural Korean relatives may have struggled to communicate in Japanese or spoken an obscure Korean dialect unfamiliar to reporters.

Another discrepancy that I found is that one article describes that Park grew up in poverty, while another article mentions that his family is well-off. Perhaps his farming family grew wealthy only after he grew older. Alternatively, it may be that the term 'well-off' was relative to the wealth of other farming families in the area, and that, compared to other families in Korea as a whole, their family would still have been considered poor.

[Translation]

Gyeongseong Ilbo (Keijo Nippo) January 29, 1945
Flesh and Steel—A Path Cleared by Assault
Behold, the Brilliant Military Deeds of Private First Class Park!

As the shining heroic feats of Lieutenants Matsui Hideo (松井秀雄) (Korean name In Jae-ung, 인재웅, 印在雄) and Lim Jang-su illuminate the Korean peninsula like divine eagles, so too has Private First Class Park Gwan-bin (박관빈, 朴官彬, Japanese surname Bokumura 朴村), a volunteer from the Korean peninsula, fought bravely on the Burmese front. His valiant struggle has led to the ultimate sacrifice, his noble body falling amid the grass, dyed with blood. His luminous individual citation has now been publicly announced.

The esteemed Private First Class Park hails from 84 Gobo-dong (고보동, 古堡洞), Bongsan-myeon (봉산면, 鳳山面), Wiwon County (위원군, 渭原郡), North Pyongan Province. He was among the first class of volunteers trained at the Pyongyang First Volunteer Training School. Assigned to the Itai squad, he displayed remarkable martial prowess on the pestilence-ridden, scorching front lines. In particular, during combat on the banks of the Irrawaddy River last December, he fearlessly led his squad to the forefront, pressing against the enemy position despite sustaining severe injuries. Undeterred, he clutched an anti-tank explosive to his chest and charged into the enemy fortifications spitting fire. In an instant, he obliterated the enemy's fortified machine-gun nest and, in the ensuing chaos, personally stabbed several enemy soldiers to death. His sacrifice paved the way for the advance of our forces, making him a spearhead for the protection of the Imperial nation, perishing with honor on the Burmese front.

This marks the first individual commendation awarded to a Korean volunteer. The boundless spirit of loyalty and self-sacrifice displayed by Private First Class Park, whose valor could stir even the spirits of the fallen, serves as a model not only for his fellow Korean volunteers but also for the elite ranks of the Imperial Army. Just as the names of Privates First Class Lee In-seok and Lee Hyang-su (이향수, 李享洙) who stained the battlefields of Shanxi with their pure blood, shine brightly, and as Sergeant Kaneshiro Yoshiki (金城義輝) received the distinguished honor of a double-rank promotion for extraordinary military achievements, Park’s valor now shines as a bright light in the annals of the Greater East Asia War.

The 26 million people of the Korean peninsula, already filled with burning gratitude and admiration for the divine eagles and soldiers of the sky, must now deepen their resolve and elevate their will to fight. The noble soul of Private First Class Park must serve as an inspiration for all.

A Land-Based Special Attack Unit
A Manifestation of the Spirit of Sacrifice
Testimony from Chief Reporter Nagaya

The Korean peninsula, which has already brought forth the divine eagles, the Special Attack Unit members Lieutenants Matsui and Lim, whose unwavering loyalty and valor will be remembered for eternity, has once again demonstrated its martial spirit. Earlier this year, on the central China front, Privates Second Class Ōyama and Morishige fearlessly engaged in fierce combat, cutting down more than ten enemy soldiers with unrelenting force. Their remarkable bravery earned high praise from General Okamura, commander of the China Expeditionary Army. Now, the Burmese front has seen the emergence of another legend: Private First Class Park Gwan-bin, the first from the Korean peninsula to receive an individual commendation.

Private First Class Park, under the most adverse conditions, bravely pressed forward with an anti-tank explosive in his arms, destroying a heavily fortified enemy machine-gun emplacement and significantly aiding our military operations. His actions exemplify the highest spirit of sacrifice. When he realized his grave injuries would prevent him from rising again, he calmly shouted "Banzai to His Majesty the Emperor!" before embracing death with composure. This act of ultimate loyalty is the very embodiment of the warrior spirit and can be rightfully deemed the equivalent of a land-based Special Attack Unit.

At a time when the Greater East Asia War sees fierce battles against the Americans unfolding on the Philippine front and the vast expanse of China, these Korean soldiers have shattered the enemy’s ranks, demonstrating superhuman feats of courage in both air and land operations to destroy the British and the Americans. Their deeds will surely solidify the 26 million Koreans' unwavering resolve for ultimate victory.

Even now, numerous Korean soldiers fight alongside those from the homeland across land, sea, and air. Without a doubt, further exemplary military exploits will emerge. With the second round of conscription examinations currently underway across all of Korea, these young men, inspired by the shining military exploits of their predecessors, must surely feel the flames of loyalty and devotion burning deep within their hearts. Young Korean men must engrave upon their hearts that military service is the highest honor for a man and the most exalted duty of a subject of Japan. They must strive to achieve glorious military feats so as not to bring shame upon their predecessors. At the same time, they must take to heart the spirit of the young warriors who have demonstrated their resolve to the 26 million people of the peninsula. With unshakable determination, they must unite all their strength to carry out the war to its conclusion and annihilate the British and the Americans.

Graduate of the Pyongyang Second Volunteer Training School

Having fully demonstrated the essence of the Imperial Army, Private First Class Park Gwan-bin fell heroically on the Burmese front, earning an individual commendation. Born in 84 Gobo-dong-84, Bongsan-myeon, Wiwon County, North Pyongan Province, he graduated from Bongsan Elementary School. Initially engaged in farming at home, he was unable to suppress his fervent desire to become a volunteer soldier, so in 1942, he enrolled in the Pyongyang Second Army Volunteer Training School. After completing his training, he served as an assistant instructor at the same school. When he passed the rigorous second screening, he proudly stepped into the ranks of the military.

At home, his family consists of five other members including his father, Il-chan (일찬, 一賛)  (39 years old), his mother, Jik-ok (직옥, 直玉) (42 years old), his younger brother, Seong-bin (성빈, 星彬) (13 years old), his younger sister, Seon-bin (선빈, 善彬) (4 years old), and his uncle, Park Byeong-chan (병찬, 炳賛). The family is well-off, owning extensive farmland.

A Flower Always Adorned His Instructor's Desk
A Story from His Training School Days

[Pyongyang Telephone Report] Though Private First Class Park was a fearless warrior who struck terror into the hearts of the enemy, he also had a gentle side, as recently recounted in a cherished tale from his days at his training school in Pyongyang.

One day, while in training, he happened to notice that his instructor's desk held an empty vase. Finding the sight lonely, he thought, "Even in a training school, it would not be inappropriate for a vase to hold flowers." From the following morning, beautiful flowers mysteriously began appearing in the vase each day. After two or three days, the instructor, curious about the benefactor, discovered that the kind-hearted Park had been placing them there.

Beyond this anecdote, Private First Class Park worked tirelessly to improve the capabilities of Squad 38, of which he was a part, supporting the squad leader to make it a model unit within the school.

Follow This Loyal and Heroic Example!
Statement from the Chief of the Korean Federation of National Power

"At this moment, having learned that Private First Class Park has distinguished himself on the Burma front with remarkable military achievements, serving as a noble foundation for our Empire’s inevitable victory and living on in eternal righteousness, I am overwhelmed with emotion. He has been awarded a commendation from the army commander and, furthermore, has had the great honor of being reported to His Majesty.

Inspired by the eternal brilliance of the loyalty, courage, and valor of Second Lieutenants Matsui and Lim, as well as Sergeant Kanehara, we are now further moved by the unprecedented honor bestowed upon a Korean for the first time. This news is an immense source of pride for the Korean Peninsula, and we must widely extol his military achievements. At the same time, we must also remain steadfast in our sincerity, burn with an unshakable conviction in the defense of the Empire, and strive to align ourselves with the Imperial Will.

Now, as the realities of the war situation grow ever more severe, there is no room for cheap optimism. This autumn, when the entire hundred million must truly rise up and devote themselves fully to supplying the front lines, we must take to heart the spirit of Private First Class Park, who seized the enemy position in a life-or-death charge. We must renew our resolve to follow his path of loyal and heroic sacrifice."

The Deep Emotion at the Volunteer Soldier Training Center

[Pyongyang – Telephone Report] The deep emotion surrounding the heroic Private First Class Park has also spread to the Second Volunteer Soldier Training Center, where he trained. Former director Colonel Kamizumi Ryōkichi, student company commander Captain Wakamatsu Yoshinosuke, and squad leader Corporal Shiratani Masato each shared their heartfelt thoughts:

"It is truly an honor for our training center to have produced such a devoted Imperial soldier as Private First Class Park. We are simply overwhelmed with emotion. Private First Class Park was raised in a relatively wealthy household, and his parents were highly understanding people. A home that fosters such understanding naturally produces outstanding Imperial soldiers. We hope that all families will take this moment to deepen their understanding of the Imperial Army. Park was a gentle, serious man with exemplary conduct and a strong sense of responsibility. He was not only the pride of his family but also of our training center, and we cannot contain our joy."

Gyeongseong Ilbo (Keijo Nippo) January 30, 1945
The Character of Private First Class Park
A Man of Strong Willpower
Top of His Class in School

[Sinuiju Telephone Report] On the 28th, just as our spirits were still stirred by the heroic kamikaze attack of Second Lieutenant Lim Jang-su, we received news of another honor—the first-ever individual commendation for a Korean soldier, awarded to Private First Class Park Gwan-bin. All the people of the province, and indeed the entire Korean peninsula, reflected upon his brilliant military exploits and honor and resolved, with unwavering sincerity, to offer their own lives in service of the Emperor by destroying the enemy. The following is an account of Private First Class Park’s character:

Park was born in a poor farming household in Gobo-dong, Bongsan-myeon, Wiwon County, about 4.5 ri (approximately 18 kilometers) from Wiwon town. His strict father, Mr. Park Il-chan, was known as the most diligent farmer in the region. Growing up in this simple and honest environment, young Gwan-bin naturally became a quiet, gentle, and sincere individual.

By the time he graduated in March 1940 from Dongjang Public Elementary School (sixth graduating class), he had developed a strong physique and had gained a reputation as a determined young man who never gave up once he set his mind on something. He was expected to become a pillar of the village’s youth community.

Despite his family’s poverty, he studied diligently. He consistently ranked at the top of his class, astonishing those around him.

It was during this time that he resolved to enlist as a special volunteer soldier in the Imperial Army. Despite opposition from the villagers, he persisted and was finally accepted into the Pyongyang Special Volunteer Soldier Training Center in the summer of 1942. With a heart filled with excitement, he donned his training uniform and devoted himself entirely to the path of a true Imperial soldier.

He completed his training in December of that year. Afterward, he served as an assistant instructor at the Bongsan Youth Special Training Center, where he trained recruits with an unyielding spirit. He was a man of action, leading by example rather than mere words.

His courageous final act—charging into the enemy lines with explosives in hand—was the ultimate expression of his resolute will.

In a later month, he formally entered military service and gave his life in glory on the Burma front.

His surviving family members include his father Il-chan (41 years old), his mother Jik-ok (46 years old), his wife Ok-kin (24 years old), his four-year-old daughter, his younger brother’s wife, two younger sisters, and cousins—a total of nine relatives.

A Great Honor for the County
Statement from the Governor of Wiwon County

[Sinuiju – Telephone Report] Mr. Harada Keisei, the governor of Wiwon County, who had traveled to attend the Provincial Governors’ Conference on the 30th, expressed his profound emotion upon learning of the first individual commendation awarded to a Korean soldier:

"The unprecedented honor of this individual commendation is not only a supreme distinction for Private First Class Park himself but also an incomparable honor for all 40,000 residents of our county.

Previously, we had the honor of producing the late Second Lieutenant Lim, and now we have given rise to yet another heroic soldier, Private First Class Park. There is no greater pride and joy than this.

Thinking of the fact that such divine soldiers have emerged from my jurisdiction, I cannot remain still. The only way to truly repay the heroic deeds of these soldiers is to dedicate ourselves to increased wartime production.

Now is the time for all 40,000 county residents to follow in the footsteps of Private First Class Park!"

[Transcription]

京城日報 1945年1月29日
肉弾・拓く突撃路
ああ武勲燦たり朴村上等兵

半島の神鷲松井、林両少尉の偉烈燦と輝くときビルマ戦線に勇戦奮闘、壮烈草染む屍の栄光に殉じた半島出身志願兵朴村官彬上等兵に対する輝く個人感状が発表された。

誉れの朴村上等兵は平北渭原郡凰山面古堡洞八四の出身、平壌第一志願兵訓練所一期生だ。板井分隊に属して灼熱瘴癘の戦線に武功をうち樹て、とくに昨年十二月イラワジ河岸の戦闘には分隊の最先頭に立って敵陣に肉薄重傷を受けるも届せず、破甲爆雷をしっかと胸に抱き敢然として火を吐く敵陣に突入、一瞬にして敵掩蓋重機陣地を爆砕すると、共に周章狼狽の敵数名を刺殺。友軍進撃の途を拓いて壮烈ビルマ戦線に皇国護持の尖兵と散ったのである。

半島出身志願兵に対する栄の個人感状はこれが最初であり、朴村上等兵のその鬼神を哭かしむる尽忠殉国の赤誠は半島出身志願兵は勿論、皇軍精鋭の亀鑑ともいうべく、さきに山西の戦野を純血に染めた李仁錫、李享洙両上等兵をはじめ、武功抜群二階級特進の栄誉に浴した金城義輝兵長らの勲と共に大東亜戦史に燦たる光芒を放ったものである。

二千六百万はさきに神鷲、空の神兵に捧げた燃え沸ぎる感謝と感激をさらに一段と深めて戦う士気を昂揚。この朴村上等兵の芳魂に続かなければならない。

恰も陸の特攻隊
これぞ犠牲精神の発露
長屋報道部長語る

忠烈万古に薫る特攻隊員松井、林両少尉の神鷲を出し、その声価を中外に輝かした半島は今年はじめ中支戦線において敵兵十数名を刺殺し獅子奮迅の活躍をして岡村支那派遣軍司令官からいたく激賞された大山、森重二等兵をはじめ今またビルマ戦線に於いて半島出身初の個人感状の栄に輝く朴村官彬上等兵を出したことは唯々感激のほかなき次第である。特に朴村上等兵は最も困難なる状況のもと敢然身に破甲爆雷を抱き肉薄中掩蓋重機陣地を粉砕。味方の作戦を容易ならしめた行為は真に尊き犠牲精神の発露であると共に重傷の末再び起つ能わざるを知るや、天皇陛下万歳を唱え従容死につく。これ一死以て国に報ゆる尽忠精神のあらわれにして真に軍人精神の亀鑑であり陸の特攻隊というべきである。

今や大東亜戦争は比島戦線をはじめ支那大陸、熾烈な日米決戦が展開されているとき、これら半島出身兵が空に陸に体当たりを以て米英撃滅に鬼神を哭かしむる武勲を樹てたことは半島二千六百万をして勝ち抜く決意を一層新たにしたことであろう。

現在尚多くの半島出身兵が陸、海、空に内地出身兵と共に活躍中であるが、必ずや赫々たる武勲が続々と現れることを確信している。いま全鮮に亘り第二回目の徴兵検査が実施されているが、これらの若き壮丁は武勲輝く先輩の忠烈に対し胸奥深く尽忠の焰を燃えたぎらせていることであろう。

兵役は男子最高の名誉であり、日本臣民として崇高な義務であることを銘肝し先輩の名を恥かしめないよう立派な手柄を樹てることを切望すると同時に半島二千六百万に対し身を以て示した若き勇士の心を心として米英撃滅に向って飽くまで戦争遂行に総力を結集することを望んで止まない。

平壌第二志願訓練所の出身

皇軍の真髄を発揮しビルマ戦線で壮烈な戦死を遂げ個人感状授与に輝く朴村官彬上等兵は平北道渭原郡凰山面古堡洞八四に生れ凰山国民学校を卒業。一時家庭にあって農事にいそしんでいたが志願兵への熱望おさえがたく昭和十七年平壌の第二陸軍志願者訓練所に入所訓練終了後、同訓練所の助手として勤務しているうち第二次銓衡に見事合格、勇躍晴れの軍門を潜ったのである。

家庭には父一賛氏（39）、母直玉さん（42）、弟星彬君（13）、妹善彬さん（４つ）に叔父の炳賛氏の五人がおり、大農家である。

教官の机上、常に花あり
床しい訓練所時代の挿話

【平壌電話】敵陣に向っては鬼をもひしぐ勇猛果敢な朴村上等兵の優しい一面を物語る『朴村生徒の花』の逸話が、いま新たに平壌の予備訓練所で語られている。

訓練所入所中の或日、朴村生徒はふと教官の机上をみた。そこには花瓶あれど花なし、淋しさであった。訓練所とはいえ花瓶に花の風情はあっても差支えなかろう、と考えた。

恰度その翌日から毎朝その花瓶に美しい花が挿されるようになった。二日、三日は教官も黙していたが、毎日続く『花』に一体誰が挿してくれるのか、と不審に思い花の主をさがしたところ、朴村生徒の優しい心尽くしであることが判った。このほか朴村上等兵は当時編入していた三十八班の素質の向上を考え班長と共に尽力し同訓練所でも模範的な班に仕上げた功績も残している。

この忠烈に続け！
韓聯盟総長談

只今ビルマ戦線において赫々たる武勲を樹てて皇国必勝の尊い礎として悠久の大義に生きた朴村上等兵に対し、軍司令官より感状を授与せられ更に畏くも上聞に達せられたる光栄に浴したことを知り心からなる感激に咽んでいる次第であります。

裏に松井、林両少尉並に金原軍曹の萬世に輝く忠勇義烈に感動した我等は今又半島人としてこの最初の無上の光栄に浴したる報道に接したことは半島にとって絶大なる誇りとしてその武功を大いに宣揚すべきであると共に我等又至誠一貫、皇国護持の大信念に燃え、大御心に副い奉らねばなりません。

今や戦局の現実は愈々深刻となり安価なる楽観を許さず一億真に奮起、戦線への補給に最善をつくさなければならぬこの秋、我等は決死敵陣を占領した朴村上等兵の心を心として忠烈に続く決意を新にしなければなりません。

志願兵訓練所の感激

【平壌電話】神兵朴村官彬上等兵を出した当時の第二志願兵訓練所所長上住良吉大佐、生徒隊長若松吉之助大尉、区隊長白谷正人伍長は訓練所の名誉でもあるとそれぞれ次の如く感激談を語った。

わが訓練所から朴村上等兵の如き尽忠に燃える皇兵を出したことは実に有難い。只々感激している次第である。朴村上等兵は相当裕福な家庭に育ち両親が非常に理解ある人でした。理解ある家庭を持つことがかかる立派な皇兵を生み出すものと思う。

一般の家庭もこの際皇軍に対する理解を深めて貰いたい。朴村上等兵は日頃柔順で真面目、品行方正で責任感の強い男でした。本人はもとより一家一門の誉れであるが、わが訓練所としても喜びに堪えない。

京城日報 1945年1月30日

朴村上等兵：人となりの記
強い実行力
学校は首席で押通す

【新義州電話】神風特攻隊林長守少尉の壮烈なる体当たりに我ら神風魂に決戦の新なる決意と感激まだ醒めやらぬ二十八日、又も朴村官彬上等兵（渭原郡凰山面古堡洞出身）に対する半島初の個人感状授与と殊勲上聞の栄誉をきく全道民はもちろん半島民衆はその輝かしい武勲と栄誉を偲ぶと共にただただ滅敵の一死奉公の誠を固く誓った。以下は朴村上等兵の人となりの記である。

この朴村上等兵は渭原邑内から約四里半も離れた凰山面古堡洞の貧しい農家に生れた。厳父一賛氏はこの地方切っての精農家で純朴な生活環境は少年官彬をそのまま無口で温厚篤実なものへと育み上げて行った。

昭和十五年三月東場公立国民学校（第六期生）を修了する頃には頑丈な体格と何かやり出せば最後までやり通す頼もしい青年となって部落の中堅青年として嘱望されていた。貧しい家庭の中にあってよく勉強し、学校ではいつも首席を占めては人々の舌を巻いたのもこの少年であった。

陸軍特別志願兵へと志願したのもこの頃で、村の人々の反対を押し切って到頭昭和十七年の夏、平壌特別志願兵訓練所に入所訓練服に胸躍らせつつ只管神兵への道にいそしんだ。

同所を同年十二月に修了。その後凰山青年特別錬成所に指導員の助手として元気で訓練生と共に血の出るような訓練生活を重ねた。常に口でいうよりも自分が身をもって実戦して行った爆雷を抱いて敵陣に突撃した壮烈な魂もこの身を以て挺身した実行力にあった。

〇〇月に晴れて入営ビルマ戦線に護国の華を散ったものである。なお遺族には父一賛氏（41）、母直玉さん（46）、妻玉キンさん（24）、長女（４つ）、弟の妻、妹二人に従兄弟など九名がいる。

郡の名誉
渭原郡守談

【新義州電話】三十日開かれる府尹郡守会議に出席のため上道した渭原郡守原田桂成氏は朴村上等兵の半島人初の個人感状授与の知らせを知って左の如く感激談をなした。

半島初の個人感状授与の破格の名誉は本人のみならず四万郡民のこの上もない名誉である。さきに故林少尉を出し又も朴村上等兵を出したことはこの上もない誇りであり喜びだ。これは自分の管内に神兵を出したと思うとじっとしていられない感じた。

この感激を増産につぎ込むことこそ神兵の武勲に応える唯一の道である。今こそ四万郡民は朴村上等兵に続くべきだ。

Source: 키워드 검색 - 신문 검색 - 대한민국 신문 아카이브

Matsui Hideo (松井秀雄) (Korean Name: In Jae-ung)

• Age at Death: 20 years and 6 months
• Place of Death: Leyte Bay, Philippines
• Date of Death: November 29, 1944
• Place of Origin: Korean Peninsula
• Military Rank: Army Corporal
• Training: 13th Class of Youth Aviation Cadets
• Unit: Army Special Attack Unit, Member of the Yasukuni Unit
• Aircraft: Type 1 Fighter "Hayabusa"
• Cause of Death: Killed in Action

Early Life

Matsui Hideo, originally named In Jae-ung (인재웅, 印在雄), was born on May 3, 1924, as the second son of a businessman. He had two younger sisters. At the age of 12, he moved to Kaesong with his mother and sisters. He attended Kaesong Public Commercial School before volunteering as a youth aviation cadet in the Imperial Japanese Army, where he became a pilot of the "Hayabusa" fighter aircraft.

Military Service and Death

On November 29, 1944, as a member of the Army Special Attack Unit (Kamikaze) known as the Yasukuni Unit, he launched his final sortie in a Type 1 Fighter "Hayabusa" and perished in Leyte Bay, Philippines.

His death was widely publicized in a local Korean newspaper, which printed a headline in Hangul reading, "A Yasukuni Divine Eagle from the Peninsula." His story was used to bolster wartime morale among the Korean population. Following his death, at least 16 other young Korean men are known to have perished in similar special attack missions.

Postwar Controversy

A longstanding rumor suggested that In Jae-ung had survived as a prisoner of war and later returned to the Korean Peninsula after the war. However, his surviving sisters have denied these claims. Furthermore, no records of him have been found in U.S. military prisoner records.

Source: Translated from NHK Archives 特攻＞特攻隊員4000人の記憶＞陸軍靖国隊　印　在雄さん｜戦争｜NHKアーカイブス

Imperial Japan celebrated a Korean boy’s angry blood vow to sun goddess Amaterasu offering up his life as a fighter pilot to avenge the U.S. bombing of Ise Shrine in 1945

The following article serves as a tragic testament to the extent of Imperial Japan’s propaganda and its devastating impact on Korean youth during the colonial period. It tells the story of a 15-year-old Korean boy, Yoshiyama Kakei, who became enraged after hearing news of a U.S. air attack on the Ise Jingu shrine—one of the most sacred Shinto sites in Japan, dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu. The shrine, located in Ise, Mie Prefecture, was likely strafed during the Bombing of Nagoya on January 14, 1945.

What makes this article particularly striking is how it illustrates the depth of indoctrination under the Japanese colonial regime. The boy, from a rural area in Goseong County in Gangwon Province, expressed his outrage not merely as loyalty to the emperor but as a personal sense of spiritual violation. His reaction shows that Koreans were systematically taught to feel a connection to the broader pantheon of Shinto deities, not just the emperor himself.

In his desperation to atone for what he saw as a grave offense against the divine, this young boy wrote a letter pledging his life for vengeance—using his own blood. His willingness to volunteer as a fighter pilot reveals how deeply Imperial Japan’s wartime propaganda and the state Shinto religion had permeated the minds of the most impressionable Korean youths.

[Translation]

Gyeongseong Ilbo (Keijo Nippo) January 25, 1945

"Goddess, I offer up my blood in apology"

A Young Aviation Soldier’s Fiery Blood Petition

Enraged by the report of despicable enemy aircraft violating the sacred grounds of Ise Jingu Shrine, a young Korean boy, Yoshiyama Kakei, solemnly swore vengeance and submitted a blood petition to become an aviation soldier.

15-year-old Yoshiyama Kakei from 2-617 Dong-ri, Goseong-eup, Goseong County, Gangwon Province, graduated from elementary school last year. As a trainee at the Goseong South Youth Training Institute, he has been undergoing rigorous preparation to become an Imperial soldier. However, upon hearing the Imperial Headquarters’ announcement on the 14th that the despicable B-29 bombers had attacked the sacred grounds of Ise Jingu—worshiped by 100 million people—and destroyed the Saikan and Kagura-den, he was enraged by the sheer arrogance and brutality of the enemy Americans.

Unable to allow even a moment’s delay, his young blood boiled with fury, and he made a firm vow of vengeance. He resolved to take to the skies and fight, writing in blood:

"Amaterasu Omikami, please forgive me. I offer my blood in apology in place of my own body. Transcending life and death, I dedicate myself to annihilating the enemy Americans."

Burning with fiery, pure determination, the young boy also enclosed the following letter dated January 24th, addressed to the commander of the Japanese Korean Army, applying to become an aviation soldier. Below is the content of his letter, revealing his heartfelt resolve:

"(Omitted introduction) In this sacred era of Showa, how can we ever apologize to the gods, to our ancestors, and to our descendants for allowing the divine grounds of the Grand Shrine of Ise to be defiled? When I think about this, my heart aches with such sorrow that I cannot even cry. Clenching my teeth and tightening my fists, I swore that I myself would avenge this outrage.

There is no time left to hesitate. Right now, the soldiers on the frontlines believe in us, enduring harsh battles with unwavering determination. When I think of their struggles and the spirit they carry within their hearts, I am filled with nothing but profound gratitude.

I, too, must take to the skies of decisive battle as soon as possible and dedicate everything to His Majesty. That is the most important duty we bear. Please, grant me this wish and allow me to take revenge. I humbly beg you."

[Transcription]

京城日報 1945年1月25日

神様・お詫びに僕の血を

少年飛行兵に烈々血書で熱願

醜翼伊勢神域を侵す報に憤激、断乎復仇を誓う半島少年の飛行兵血書志願。

江原道高城郡高城邑東里二区六一七吉山河圭君（１５）は昨年国民学校を卒業。高城南青年訓練所生として皇兵への練磨を続けているが、去る十四日醜翼B２９が一億崇拝の伊勢神宮神域を爆撃し斎館、神楽殿を破壊した大本営発表を聞き敵米の余りの不逞暴虐ぶりに憤激。もはや一刻の猶予もならず、と若き血潮を憤激に沸らせ断乎この復仇を誓って空征く決意を固め、『天照大神様、お許し下さい。僕の身に代って血でお詫び致します。死生を超越し敵米撃滅にこの身を捧げます』と血書。

これに烈々火と燃ゆる少年の至純な決意を綴った次の如き手紙を添えて二十四日朝鮮軍司令官宛に少年飛行兵を志願して来た、以下同君の決意を披瀝した手紙の内容：

「（前略）この昭和の聖代に皇大神宮の神域を汚したこと神様に先祖に子孫に何とお詫びしましょう。そのことを考えます時、私は泣くにも泣けない思いで胸を痛めました。そして歯を喰いしばり拳を握り、きっとこの仇を自分の身で討つと誓ったのです。

も早一刻の猶予も許されません。今日前線の兵隊さんは私たちの来ることを信じて苦しい戦闘に耐えつつ頑張っておられるのです。その兵隊さんのお姿、その心中をお察しいたします時、私たちはただただ感謝に堪えません。そして私たちも一刻も早く決戦の大空に続きすべてを大君に捧げ奉ることが最も大切な任務であると思っています。どうかこの希望を叶えて仇を討たして下さい。お願いいたします。」

Source: 키워드 검색 - 신문 검색 - 대한민국 신문 아카이브

Lim Jangsu (림장수, 林長守) was a Korean Kamikaze pilot who died in a suicide attack on US navy vessels in the Philippines on Dec. 7, 1944; he was from Yeomju-eup near Sinuiju

These two Imperial propaganda news articles from January 1945 cover an ethnic Korean kamikaze pilot, Lim Jangsu (林長守), who died in a suicide attack on December 7, 1944, during the Battle of Ormoc Bay in the Philippines. His suicidal assault helped destroy either the USS Ward or USS Lamson, but despite his prominent glorification in wartime media, his name has all but disappeared from history. Access to these news articles became possible only recently with the opening up of the digital newspaper archives of the National Library of Korea.

Lim Jangsu

Jangsu and sixteen other kamikaze pilots were plastered across the front page of the Keijo Nippo on January 25, 1945, the largest newspaper in colonial Korea. Imperial Japan was desperately seeking to manipulate and rally the colonized Korean population to cope with imminent military defeat. Their strategy? Elevating a Korean suicide pilot into a martyr. Whereas the spirit of Isoroku Yamamoto was being promoted in 1943, by 1945, the "Jangsu spirit" was being pushed instead.

Lim Jangsu in the center

Jangsu hailed from Namsi-eup, which is now called Yeomju-eup, a small township a few kilometers east of Sinuiju, in present-day North Korea. His family, including his three younger brothers—one of whom was a provincial police officer—was thrust into the spectacle of wartime Imperial Japanese propaganda. One of the articles describes his parents watching their son's final moments immortalized on film in a Sinuiju theater, overcome with tears as they beheld his image on the silver screen.

Yet, for all this propaganda, why is his name nowhere to be found online? His existence is not even mentioned in Wikipedia or Namu Wiki. Indeed, currently on Reddit, one post about Korean Kamikaze pilots says that the first Korean to die in a Kamikaze attack was Park Dong-hun (Okawa Masaaki) on March 29, 1945.

This story forces us to confront unsettling questions about Korea's place in Imperial Japan’s war machine and how colonial subjects were manipulated, used, and then discarded.

[Translation]

Gyeongseong Ilbo (Keijo Nippo) January 15, 1945

Earnest Cry of 'Oh, Jangsu!'

Sergeant Lim's Parents Shed Tears of Joy in a Silver Screen Reunion

[Sinuiju telephone report] The second 'Divine Eagle' born on the peninsula, Sergeant Lim Jangsu (림장수, 林長守), and his strict father, Mr. Lim Chunhui (림춘희, 林春煕), experienced a miraculous reunion on the silver screen. Upon seeing the lifelike image of the 'Divine Eagle,' they gasped, 'Ah, it is Jangsu!' Overcome with tears, the entire family gathered to remember the heroic deeds of their departed son in this touching home-front episode.

The 238th installment of Japan News, featuring the Kamikaze Special Attack Unit’s Imperial loyalty Squadron in action, is currently being shown at the World Theater in the city. Upon hearing from others that their son, Sergeant Lim Jangsu, appeared in the film, his father, Chunhui, along with his mother, Dae-nyeo (대녀, 大女), traveled all the way from their home in Namsi (남시, 南市) to Sinuiju on the night of January 11th, their hearts pounding with hope—'perhaps we will see Jangsu…' With bated breath, the couple fixed their eyes on the screen. The film seamlessly portrayed the warriors of the special attack unit, calm and composed, just before their sortie.

One by one, two, three—'Ah, it is Jangsu!' Sergeant Lim, with his tall stature and strong, well-defined features, dominated the screen. Even his mother, Dae-nyeo, who had not shed a tear upon hearing of her beloved son’s self-sacrificing attack, could not hold back this time, as tears gently fell from her eyes—tears of joy. One after another, the Divine Eagle aircraft of the Imperial Loyalty Squadron plunged into the skies over Leyte in their ultimate act of devotion. The couple remained in their seats, unable to look away, deeply moved by the scene before them.

On January 13th, the film was screened in the provincial government conference room. Among the attendees was Sergeant Lim Jangsu’s younger brother, Lim Dalsu (림달수, 林達守) who was employed at the provincial police department. Thanks to the thoughtful consideration of his superior, he was given the opportunity to watch the film. Overjoyed at the sight of his brother on screen, he was filled with excitement and declared with firm resolve, 'I will surely follow in the footsteps of the Special Attack Unit!' Thus, the Divine Eagle film became a powerful and deeply moving topic on the home front."

[Photo: In the center stands Sergeant Lim Jangsu before his attack]

Gyeongseong Ilbo (Keijo Nippo) January 25, 1945

Carrying on Jangsu's Spirit in Old Age

Parents of Newly Promoted Second Lieutenant Lim Moved to Tears

[Sinuiju telephone report] With a single aircraft, he brought down an enemy warship—Sergeant Lim Jangsu, the Divine Eagle of the Korean peninsula, achieved a fearless and precise strike ramming attack. His valorous feat, along with the distinguished achievements of the entire Loyalty Squadron, was recognized with a commendation from the highest commander of the Southern Front. Furthermore, word has now arrived that this honor has reached the highest levels of the Imperial court, resulting in his posthumous promotion to Second Lieutenant and the awarding of the Fourth-Class Order of Merit and the Sixth-Class Order of the Rising Sun.

At the family home of the late Second Lieutenant Lim in Namsi, his strict father, Chunhui, was moved to tears by the boundless and immeasurable grace of the Emperor. Overcome with emotion, he declared, 'I must dedicate myself entirely to the spirit of the Special Attack Unit, breaking my body and bones if necessary, to repay even one ten-thousandth of the Imperial favor.'

Overwhelmed by emotion, he continued: "The immense grace of His Majesty is beyond words—I am overwhelmed with both awe and gratitude. There is no greater honor for our family. As I am still capable of working, I will push my aging body to its limits, dedicating myself fully to carrying on Jangsu’s spirit. With whatever strength I have, I will devote myself to home-front service, however small my contribution may be, in the effort to strike down the American and British forces. My only concern is how I can ever repay even one ten-thousandth of the Imperial favor."

Likewise, the late Second Lieutenant Lim’s mother, Dang Daenyeo (당대녀, 堂大女), also tearfully expressed her heartfelt gratitude for the sacred honor, saying: "Fortunately, Jangsu has three younger brothers. We will raise them to be as strong in spirit as their late brother, and we are prepared to dedicate them to the nation as well." [Photo: Second Lieutenant Lim]

[Transcription]

京城日報 1945年1月15日

真面目に”おお長守！”

林伍長の両親嬉しい涙の銀幕対面

【新義州電話】半島が生んだ第二の神鷲林伍長と厳父林春煕氏が奇しき銀幕対面に『あっ、長守だ』と生けるが如き神鷲の姿に感涙にむせび、一家を挙げて故人の壮挙を偲んだ銃後の挿話がある。

日本ニュース第二三八号神風特攻隊勤皇隊出撃映画は府内世界館で上映中であり、林伍長の姿が出ると人づてに聞いた父親春煕氏は母親大女さんと共に十一日夜、南市の自宅から遥々来義した若しや長守に会えれば．．．と胸轟かせて夫婦は画面に見入った。出撃を前に悠然落ち着いた特攻隊勇士等の姿を画面は流れるように再現する。

一人、二人、三人『あっ、長守だ』脊高く線の太い特徴ある林伍長の姿が銀幕を圧して映し出される。愛息の体当たりを聞いても涙だつ見せなかった母親大女さんもこの時はホロリと涙した。嬉しい涙一一機又一機レイテの空に突っ込む勤皇隊神鷲機の尽忠の姿にいつ迄も夫妻は席を離れなかった。

十三日には道庁会議室で上映され、ここには林伍長の次弟林達守君（道警察部勤務）がおり、上司の情あるはからいで観覧したが兄の姿に狂喜して喜び『必ず特攻隊に続きます』と決意をもらし、かくして神鷲映画は銃後に大きな感激の話題を盛った。

【写真＝中央が出撃前の神鷲林長守伍長】

京城日報 1945年1月25日

老骨に長守精神を

特進に感涙、林少尉の両親

【新義州電話】一機もって一艦をよくぞ屠った半島の神鷲林長守伍長の必死必中の体当たり武勲は、勤皇隊全員の偉勲と共に南方方面最高指揮官より感状を授与され、いままた畏くも上聞に達し、少尉に特進、功四旭六の恩命に浴したという報に接した南市の故林少尉の生家では、厳父春煕氏は皇恩の鴻大無辺さに感泣『粉骨砕身、特攻精神に徹し皇恩の万分の一にでも報い奉らねば』と感激を語った。

「皇恩の鴻大なることひたすら恐懼感激に堪えません。家門の名誉またこれに過ぐるものはありません。私は未だ働き得る身でありますから、老骨に鞭打って粉骨砕身長守の精神を受け継いで米英撃摧に微力ながら銃後奉公に邁進する覚悟であります。如何にして皇恩の万分の一にでも報い得るかが心配であります」

なお故林少尉の母堂大女さんも聖恩の忝きに感泣しながら、

『幸いに長守も弟が三名おりますから、兄に負けないように精神を錬成してお国に捧げる覚悟であります』と語った。【写真＝林少尉】

Source: 키워드 검색 - 신문 검색 - 대한민국 신문 아카이브

When all of Korea was forced to bow to Yasukuni Shrine to worship Imperial Japan's war dead as gods: a chilling moment at 9:15 AM on October 23, 1944

On October 23, 1944, during one of the darkest chapters of Imperial Japanese colonial rule over Korea, the entire peninsula was mobilized for a synchronized prayer toward Tokyo's Yasukuni Shrine. At precisely 9:15 AM, every Korean was compelled to bow in reverence to Imperial Japan's war dead, who were enshrined as gods. This extraordinary event, designed to demonstrate loyalty to the Empire, marked a departure from the usual rituals of the time.

Original caption: Bereaved families advancing and paying respects before the Gokoku Shrine altar

Under colonial rule, daily life in Korea was punctuated by strict, state-imposed ceremonies. At 7:00 AM each morning, Koreans were required to perform remote worship (宮城遥拝) toward the Imperial Palace. At noon, they observed a moment of silence (正午の黙祷) to honor Japan's war dead. These two times of the day were usually marked by loud sirens. However, this particular nationwide prayer at 9:15 AM was conducted in the absence of sirens to make the act feel more solemn and hallowed. Every Korean was expected to participate, with members of local neighborhood cells (patriotic groups) strictly organized to ensure compliance. Even buses and trains stopped at that moment, forcing passengers to partake.

The night before, on October 22, a "spirit-summoning ritual" (招魂の儀) was held. This sacred ceremony was believed to summon the spirits of Japan's Imperial war dead so they could be worshiped as gods (新祭神) the following day.

The prayer ceremony included Korean royalty such as Yi U and Yi Geon, as well as high-ranking military officials, the Governor-General Abe Nobuyuki, and the families of the deceased.

This forced mass worship was a chilling manifestation of Imperial Japan’s assimilation policies, aimed at erasing Korean identity and replacing it with blind devotion to the Empire. The ritualistic nature, combined with the total control over public and private life, reflects the deep cultural and spiritual subjugation that Koreans endured.

The site of the prayer ceremony, the Gokoku Shrine, no longer exists today. However, the 108 stone steps that were once part of the shrine remain today as part of the Huam-dong neighborhood in the Yongsan District of Seoul, known locally as the 108게단. Visitors can now ride up these stairs using an elevator.

[Translation]

Gyeongseong Ilbo (Keijo Nippo) October 23, 1944

Grateful Worship of Yasukuni Shrine

Today at 9:15 AM

A Time for National Prayer

In conjunction with the temporary grand festival at Yasukuni Shrine, the Korean Federation of National Power, alongside mainland Japan, designated 9:15 AM on October 23rd as a 'Time for National Prayer,' during which the entire Korean peninsula would offer devout prayers. At the specified time, all patriotic group members will conduct one minute of prayer to Yasukuni Shrine at their respective locations. However, no signals such as sirens or whistles are to be used; instead, the prayer time is to be announced via radio. On trains, buses, or in places with large gatherings, it is the responsibility of the person in charge to provide instructions.

At the front of the shrine in Tsuruoka, the pure white torii gate stood tall against the clear autumn sky, exuding an exceptional sense of purity. From the early morning of the 22nd, a continuous stream of people came to pray for the nation's inevitable victory and to honor the loyal spirits who protect the country. Even the black kites soaring above the deep green of the ancient pine trees seemed to eternally praise the achievements of the heroic spirits who laid the foundation for the everlasting prosperity of the empire, burying their bones across Greater East Asia.

At 2:00 PM, eighty-two bereaved families of Yasukuni Shrine were guided by staff to a special bus that stopped in front of the shrine approach. As they gazed up at the torii gate, passed beneath it, and ascended the stone steps, their hearts trembled with profound emotion, overwhelmed by thoughts of their beloved sons and husbands, now deified. They were then escorted to a special pavilion for rest, where they received heartfelt hospitality from the Patriotic Women's Association.

The site for the remote worship ceremony was located on the northwest side of Gokoku Shrine, halfway up a hill, with four large temporary pavilions arranged in a row. Red and white curtains extended cleanly and elegantly from the plaza in front of the shrine, along a newly constructed sand pathway, enclosing the ceremonial area. At the altar, with sacred evergreen branches as the centerpiece, offerings were arranged from various dignitaries who lined up to the right and left of Changdeok Palace. The sand path, meticulously prepared, awaited the participants: Prince Yi U, the family of Prince Yi Geon, as well as the Ministers of the Army and Navy, the Governor-General, and military officers and organizations stationed in Korea.

Soldiers lining the grounds for the spirit summoning ceremony.

Before the main ceremony, a presentation of Imperial gifts bearing the chrysanthemum crest was conducted. In front of the shrine plaza, all the bereaved families assembled in a straight line. The families of the Imperial Army received their gifts from Major General Nakai, while those of the Imperial Navy received theirs from Navy Captain Yamaguchi. Among the bereaved families, there was an elderly Korean father, dressed in traditional Korean durumagi and black leggings. The purple tassels and silver sakura of the bereaved family badge, as well as the green ribbon with the silver sakura of the ceremony participation badge, shone brightly. Hands trembling with emotion, they reverently held the gifts they had received.

Following this, commemorative items and souvenirs were distributed. These gifts, thoughtfully prepared by the Imperial Army and Navy Ministries for the bereaved families, included sacred amulets, small altars, sacred cups and sake, ceremonial sweets, illustrated scrolls of Yasukuni Shrine, postcards, framed photographs, and hardtack from both the Imperial Army and Navy to evoke memories of the front lines. Additional items included furoshiki cloths adorned with Yasukuni Shrine designs, furoshiki cloths from the Military Support Division, a bag of chestnuts from the Red Cross, biscuits from the Korean branch of the Military Support Association, shopping bags from the Seoul sub-branch chairman of the Military Support Association, apples from the Maeil Sinbo newspaper, and household utility bags. These heartfelt gifts were presented to honor the families who had made the noble sacrifice of offering their husbands and sons to the nation.

Bereaved families of war dead receiving Imperial gifts.

At 4:15 PM, participants, beginning with the division commander’s vehicle, arrived one after another. At 4:30 PM, the bereaved families solemnly proceeded to the front of the shrine and underwent purification rites, marking the start of the grand and dignified ceremony.

Photograph: Bereaved families advancing and paying respects before the Gokoku Shrine altar (above). Presentation of Imperial gifts with profound emotion.

A Solemn and Heartfelt 'Broadcast'

The Bereaved Sob During the 'Soul-Summoning Ceremony'

Amid the sacred grounds of Tsuruoka, where scattered autumn leaves adorned the landscape, the sound of rustling pines seemed to weep gently in the wind. The somber atmosphere of the soul-summoning courtyard at the Gokoku Shrine in Seoul was imbued with the devout prayers of 26 million people from the Korean Peninsula, as the spirits of the fallen were now enshrined as gods.

The Yasukuni Shrine ceremony in Korea was conducted with great solemnity, synchronized with the grand festival at the Imperial capital’s Yasukuni Shrine, and began at 5:40 PM on October 22nd with a live broadcast from the ceremonial site. Although the participants’ physical presence could not reach the sacred Yasukuni forest, the 83 bereaved family members in attendance listened intently to the grandeur of the shrine from afar. Swallowing their sobs, they clasped their hands tightly in reverence.

As twilight gently descended upon the sacred grounds, the altar stood opposite the designated gathering spot, where the bereaved families solemnly and devoutly assembled in dense groups. Despite the chill of the autumn breeze, they felt an inexplicable sense of comfort as they awaited this holy moment.

At 5:40 PM, through the microphone, the reverent voice of Chief Priest Suzuki delivered an imposing and extended eulogy, praising the achievements of the heroic spirits. A young widow, mourning her late husband and his younger brother, adjusted her short bob hairstyle and straightened her collar with quiet determination. In the purified space, the sudden and resonant sound of a ground-shaking cry of salutation filled the air. For a brief moment, the lights of the ceremonial site were extinguished, and everything in the sacred grounds was enveloped in jet-black darkness.

The faint and divine sound of reeds being rustled emerged, accompanied by solemn military music emanating from the distant Yasukuni forest. The melody reached the ears of the bereaved families on the Korean peninsula, gradually intensifying in emotional power. Throughout the site, restrained sobs broke free from those unable to hold back their feelings.

‘The heroic spirits of the warriors who soared through the skies and sailed across the seas now rest peacefully and serenely in the sacred shrine that protects the nation.’ At these words, spoken with a trembling voice by the announcer, elderly mothers and fathers pressed white handkerchiefs to their tear-streaked faces. As parents of sons, as wives of husbands, who among them could not think of their loved ones? These cherished individuals have now returned as gods who protect the nation. In that moment, what greater honor, what greater joy, could there be? The tears streaming down the cheeks of the bereaved are pure and noble, tears that only the Japanese people can truly understand.

The solemn and sacred ceremony of transferring the divine spirit, enshrined on the revered sacred carriage, was meticulously broadcast. The bereaved families, receiving it with the eyes and ears of their hearts, were unable to hold back their tears, momentarily surrendering to overwhelming emotion. The attendees, too, straightened their collars in reverence.

Thus, at 7:15 PM, the spirits of the heroic souls were permanently enshrined in the main hall, with the divine presence deeply instilled in Yasukuni Shrine. Following this, the bereaved families and attendees offered their final respectful worship. The ceremonial site was then brightly illuminated, and the families, who had successfully enshrined the souls of their loved ones as gods across the distant mountains and rivers of the peninsula, bore expressions of profound relief and a renewed determination to carry on the legacy of the heroic spirits with unwavering resolve.

Afterward, addresses were given by the Ministers of the Army and Navy (read by the Seoul Division Commander) and by Colonel Koya, a member of the ceremony committee. With these, the Yasukuni Shrine Korean Regional Ceremony concluded without incident. The sixty-five bereaved families associated with the enshrined spirits from the peninsula, deeply moved, retired to their lodgings with a sense of peace and fulfillment in their hearts.

[Transcription]

京城日報 1944年10月23日

感激の靖国遥拝

きょう午前九時十五分

国民祈祷の時間

靖国神社臨時大祭にあたり朝鮮聯盟では内地とともに二十三日午前九時十五分を”国民祈念の時間”とし、全半島一斉に敬虔なる祈念を捧げることに決定した。同時刻を期し全愛国班員は各々その所在で靖国神社に一分間の祈念を行うがサイレン、気笛などの合図は行わず、ラジオによる祈念時間の放送をなす予定であるが汽車、電車等においては乗務員、多数集会の場所では責任者が指示をすることになっている。

鶴ヶ丘の社頭秋空に高く映ゆる純白の大鳥居も一入清い二十二日早朝から護国の忠霊に皇国必勝を祈願する人々は、ひきも切らない、濃き緑の老松を截って飛ぶ鳶も皇国万代の隆昌の礎となって骨を大東亜に埋めた英霊の勲を永久に讃うが如くである。

午後二時係員に導かれた靖国の遺族八十二名が特別バスを参道前に止める。見上げる鳥居をくぐって石段を登る胸の中は今やあまりにも尊く神と化す我が子我が夫を想い仰ぐ感動に顫えているのだ。直ちに特設幕舎に入って休憩。日婦の心づくしの接待をうける。

遥拝式典場は護国神社の西北側、丘の中腹に四つの大幕舎を連ね紅白の幕は神社前の広場から急設の砂道に清く長く張られて式場を囲む。祭壇には真榊を中心にした左右の昌徳宮、李鍝公、李鍵公家を初め陸海軍大臣、総督、軍司令官以下在鮮軍官および団体よりの供物が匂い並び砂道の節目も正しく諸員参列を待つ式典に先立ち畏きあたりより御下賜の御紋菓伝達式があり社前広場の伝達処には全遺族整列。陸軍側遺族は中井少将より海軍側遺族には山口海軍大佐よりそれぞれ伝達を受けたが遺族の中には周衣（ツルマキ）に黒脚絆の半島老父も混じり、紫の房銀の桜の遺族章、緑のリボンに銀桜の式典参加章が一入輝き賜品を押し頂く手も感動にふるえる。

続いて記念品並びにお土産の授与があり、その内容は陸海軍省が心尽くしの遺族への贈りものの数々、神札、神床、神盃神酒、神菓、靖国神社絵巻、絵葉書、写真額それに前線をしのぶ陸海軍それぞれの乾パン、靖国神社の絵入風呂敷、軍人援護部からの風呂敷、日赤からの栗一袋、軍人援護会朝鮮本部からのビスケット、同府分会長からの買物鞄、毎日新報からの林檎、風呂敷、家庭用雑囊など御国へ夫を、子を捧げた栄の家への温かい贈物である。

四時十五分師団長の自動車を初め参列諸員続々と到着四時三十分遺族一同社前に参進して修祓を受け、いよいよ荘厳な式典に入った。

写真＝参列の遺族護国神社神前に参進拝礼（上）と感激の御下賜品伝達

胸迫る厳かな”電波”

”招魂の儀”に遺族の嗚咽

紅葉まばらな鶴ケ丘の神域に松籟がサヤサヤと咽ぶかに鳴り、森厳の気一入満つる京城護国神社招魂齋庭に半島二千六百万の敬虔な祈りを籠めて英魂今ぞ神鎮まる靖国神社朝鮮地方式典は皇都靖国の祭典と時を同じくして二十二日午後五時四十分から祭典式場よりの実況放送開始と同時にいと厳かに執行され、現し身こそ靖国の杜に額づかねど参列遺族八十三名は遥けき靖国の威儀に耳傾け嗚咽の声を呑み、しっかと手を合わせたのである。

神域にひたひたと宵闇迫る齋場祭壇向合いの定めの位置にぎっしりと虔ましく群れた今宵の遺族には肌寒い秋風も何か知ら心楽しく感ぜられ聖なる一時を待受ける。

やがて午後五時四十分、マイクを通じ鈴木宮司の荘重な祭詞が英霊の勲を讃えて長く長く尾を曳いて流れる。今は亡き夫の弟を追う若き未亡人がいじらしいオカッパをゆすりあげ襟を正す。水を打ったような浄域にオーオーと地の底から湧きあがる警蹕の声が耳を打つ。一時式場の灯火は搔き消され神域のあらゆるものは一斉にぬば玉の闇に沈んだ。神々しい菅掻きの音がかすかにかすかに洩れ、荘重な軍楽の調べがはるけき靖国の杜から今半島の遺族らの耳朶をゆすり次第に昂ぶる。感情を抑えんとして押え得ざる嗚咽がそこここにあがる。

”天翔けり海を往きにし勇士の英霊平らけく安らけく今護国の御社に遺りまします”放送員のうるんだ声に早や白いハンカチを顔に当てる老母、老翁、人の子の親として、人の子の妻としてだれか肉身を思わぬ者があろうか。その親しき者が今国護る神として還えります一瞬、これ以上の光栄、これ以上の喜びが又とあろうか。遺族達の頬を流れているであろう泪は日本人のみが知る清くおおらかな涙である。

厳かに尊き御羽車に奉戴された神体奉遷の儀はこまごまと放送され、心の目、心の耳でじっと迎えまいらせる遺族達は涙せきあえず暫し感動に身をゆだね参列諸員又厳然と襟を正す。

かくして午後七時十五分英魂永えに本殿に安置され靖国のみやしろ深く神鎮まったのである。ここで遺族、参列諸員は再びうやうやしく遥拝を終れば式場にはあかあかと灯火が点ぜられ、遥けき半島の山河超えてつつがなく肉親の魂を神と祀った遺族たちの顔には美しい安堵の色と英霊の名を継いであくまでも勝ち抜く決意がしっかりと刻まれていた。ついで陸海軍大臣挨拶（京城師団長代読）式典委員小家大佐の挨拶あって靖国神社朝鮮地方式典は滞りなく終了し、参列の半島関係祭神六十五柱の遺族たちは感激を胸に心も晴々と宿舎に入った。

Source: 키워드 검색 - 신문 검색 - 대한민국 신문 아카이브

Koreans faced up to 10 years in prison and 50,000 yen in fines for not submitting their personal platinum items to the Imperial Navy by Jan. 31, 1945

In the closing months of 1944, the Imperial Japanese Navy escalated its efforts to extract resources from Korea to fuel its war machinery. Initially, they encouraged Koreans to donate or sell their platinum items to support the production of warplanes. However, as the war situation became more desperate, the messaging shifted from voluntary contributions to mandatory requisitions backed by severe penalties, as evidenced in the following December 29, 1944 article from Keijo Nippo, the propaganda newspaper of the Imperial Japanese colonial regime which ruled Korea at the time.

13-year-old Yūko Yamagishi who was praised for donating her mother's platinum diamond ring to the Imperial Navy.

The government offered compensation of 90 yen for 1 monme (approximately 3.75 grams) of platinum, which would be roughly $2,000 USD in today's money. Yet, this apparent generosity is questionable. In the same breath, the article threatens up to 10 years of imprisonment and fines up to 50,000 yen (close to one million USD today) for anyone who fails to comply by the January 31, 1945 deadline. Such exorbitant fines cast doubt on whether the promised compensation was ever genuinely intended.

This stark shift contrasts sharply with previous campaigns, like the 1943 brass donation drive, where the emphasis was on selfless contribution without expectation of compensation. The propaganda newspaper Keijo Nippo were replete with stories glorifying private donations, embodying the spirit of sacrifice expected from all citizens in Korea at the time.

A poignant example is the October 13, 1944 article about 13-year-old Yūko Yamagishi, who innocently donates her mother's platinum diamond ring to the Imperial Navy. Portrayed endearingly, her actions were meant to model the ideal behavior the colonial regime sought from Koreans: to give freely to the military without expecting anything in return.

This tactic of using children in propaganda was a recurring theme in Imperial Japanese media. By highlighting such stories, the regime aimed to tug at the heartstrings of the populace, fostering a culture of unquestioning support and sacrifice to help Japan in its war against the US and Britain during WWII.

[Translation]

Gyeongseong Ilbo (Keijo Nippo) October 13, 1944

She found the "Ring to Destroy the Enemy"!

"Please use it quickly," she said eagerly, as she donated it

A child's pure patriotism offering platinum

"One gram of platinum can sink an enemy battleship." This priceless resource was being mobilized entirely, without leaving a single speck behind, to destroy the ever-approaching enemy forces growing arrogant in their numbers. The platinum contribution campaign has accelerated, reaching the point of mandatory buybacks. However, there was one girl who provided a major impetus to those who were reluctant to part with their "last precious items" or dismissing their own contributions as "too small." She demonstrated her sincerity in supporting the production of spirit-imbued weaponry by offering up without hesitation a platinum diamond ring (worth 200 yen) that she had kept in a safe place. Stirred with a youthful fighting spirit, she reasoned, "If platinum is so essential for increasing aircraft production, I'm going to donate it instead of selling it!"

This patriotic young girl lived in Takezoe-chō (present-day Chungjeong-no), Seodaemun District, Seoul. Her name was Yūko Yamagishi (13 years old), the eldest daughter of Sadayoshi Yamagishi. She is currently a sixth-grader at Seodaemun Elementary School. Every time Yūko read the newspaper, she learned how crucial platinum was and how indispensable it was for increasing aircraft production. She thought, "Isn't there more platinum out there? Why won't the people who have platinum not offer it up sooner?" Then, she remembered that she had safely kept a small, beautiful platinum ring with a diamond that her mother had given her, saying, "You can wear this when you grow up."

Unable to remain still any longer, Yūko searched through the drawers of her cabinet, found the ring, and excitedly consulted her mother, Taka, saying, "Please let me donate this instead of selling it." Taka was deeply moved by her daughter's noble feelings and encouraged her, saying, "Thank you for saying that. Please donate it with your own hands."

Yūko wrote a letter of donation addressed to Colonel Matsumoto of the Naval Military Office, saying, "This ring may be small, but please accept it along with my heartfelt sincerity." She visited the head office of this newspaper on the 12th and entrusted her ring to the donation desk. [Photo: Yūko donating her platinum]

**Yūko's Letter to Colonel Matsumoto (unedited)**

Dear Colonel Matsumoto,

Through newspapers, I have learned that the decisive battle in the air, which will determine the fate of the Imperial Nation, is fast approaching. I also understood how important platinum is for increasing aircraft production. Then, I remembered the platinum diamond ring that my mother had given me. She told me, "Wear this when you grow up."

When I think of Tarawa, Makin, and Saipan Island, I can no longer remain idle. I want to donate this ring as quickly as possible to help in any way I can. When I told my mother about this, she wholeheartedly agreed. I wanted to bring it immediately, but I needed to go to school next Sunday, so I couldn't go myself. Instead, I have asked this one man that I know to deliver it on my behalf.

Please use this precious ring, which I have cherished, to build as many fine aircraft as possible and defeat the hated British and Americans. I earnestly pray for your success.

Banzai to the Japanese Air Force!

Sincerely,

Yūko Yamagishi,

Sixth-grader at Seodaemun Public School, Seoul

**Statement from Yūko's mother Taka**

"I brought this ring with me when I got married, but I gave it to my daughter when she said that she wanted it, and I had forgotten about it. Yesterday, she created a great fuss, rummaging through her desk and drawers, and when she finally found the ring, she shouted 'Platinum, platinum!' with joy. When I asked her what she was doing, she replied, 'I am going to donate this to make airplanes!' That was when I understood her intentions and felt overjoyed. Though it is such a small item, I hope my daughter's sentiments will contribute to the creation of great weaponry."

Gyeongseong Ilbo (Keijo Nippo) December 29, 1944

Platinum: Now Subject to Mandatory Purchase

Refusal May Lead to Imprisonment of Up to Ten Years

The voluntary purchase of platinum by the Navy Purchasing Agency and the Material Management Agency concluded successfully on November 30. However, in response to the current war situation, a new Governor-General's ordinance issued on December 5 mandates the compulsory acquisition of platinum. The important Material Management Agency has been designated as the purchasing authority to enforce this measure. We request that platinum submission be made through the Seoul city government, the Korean Federation of National Power (Seoul Branch), Patriotic Women's Association (Seoul Branch), and the Material Management Agency.

The platinum subject to compulsory acquisition includes privately owned platinum and platinum alloys, such as jewelry, ornaments, personal accessories, stationery, fixtures, or even scrap materials. Exceptions apply to items classified as national treasures or those personally granted by the Emperor, provided the recipient has obtained permission from the Governor to retain them.

The procedure for submission requires individuals to fill out appropriate forms or postcards with their address, name, item descriptions, and quantities, and send them to the Material Management Agency. Alternatively, collective submissions through patriotic groups, labor unions, or other organizations are permitted.

The acquisition period ends on January 31. Applications and submission of items must be completed by this date, except for certain items requiring substitutes. The standard price is set at 90 yen per monme (3.75 grams), while government-owned items are priced at 61 yen, 2 sen, and 5 rin.

Severe penalties are imposed for violations, including reselling or deliberately destroying platinum products, failing to submit an application by January 31, or refusing requests for collection by the agency. Such actions may result in imprisonment of up to ten years or a fine of up to 50,000 yen.

[Transcription]

京城日報 1944年10月13日

あった”撃敵の指輪”

早く使って下さいと勇んで献納

白金を捧ぐ幼きこの赤心

”白金一匁はよく敵戦艦を撃沈する”この尊い百金を一粒残さず根こそぎ動員し、量に驕りじりじりと迫って来る敵を撃滅しようと白金供出運動は一段と拍車を加え今や強制買上げとなったが、飛行機増産になくてはならぬ白金ならば売るよりも献納しましょうと幼い闘魂を沸かせて大切に仕舞ってあった白金ダイヤ入り指輪（二百円）を惜しげもなく捧げ魂のこもる兵器の増産に赤誠を示し”これだけは”とか”こんな小さな物は”と出し渋っている人達に大きな刺戟を与えた軍国少女がある。

京城府西大門区竹添町三丁目山岸貞良氏長女裕子さん（13）＝西大門国民校六年＝は新聞を読む度毎に白金が如何に重要であり、飛行機の増産になくてはならないということを知り、”白金は無いものだろうか、どうして持っている人達が早く出さないのだろうか”と考えているうちに何時かお母さんから大きくなったら使いなさいと戴いた小さな可愛いダイヤ入り白金の指輪を大切に仕舞っておいたことに気が付いた。もうじっとしていられなくなった裕子さんは箪笥の中から探し出し喜び勇んで売るよりも献納させて下さいと母親たかさんに相談した處、たかさんも娘の麗しい気持ちに胸が一ぱいとなり”よく言って呉れました、あなたの手で献納して下さい”と激励した。裕子さんは指輪は小さいが私の真心とともに是非受け取って下さいと海軍武官府松本大佐宛に献納文を綴り、これを添えて十二日本社を訪れ献納方寄託した。【写真＝白金献納の裕子さん】

（原文のまま）松本大佐さま、私は新聞で皇国の興廃がきまる航空決戦が間近かに迫り、飛行機増産の為に白金がどんなに大切であるかを知りました。そして私が大きくなった時お使いなさいといってお母さまからいただいた白金にダイヤのはいった指輪のあることに気がつきました。タラワ、マキン、サイパン島のことを思うとき私はもうじっとしていられません。一刻も早くこの指輪を献納してお役に立てたいと思ってそのことをお母さまに話すとお母さまも大賛成でした。早速持って行こうと思いましたが今度の日曜も学校があるので行けません。それで知り合いのおじちゃんに頼んでお届けします。どうか私が大切にしていたこの指輪でりっぱな飛行機を少しでもたくさん造って憎い米英をやっつけて下さい。お願いいたします。日本航空部隊バンザイ．．．京城府西大門国民学校六年生山岸裕子

母親たかさんは語る：”私が嫁入りするとき持って来ましたのですが、娘が欲しいというのでやってしまい忘れていました。それが昨日ですが一人でえらい騒ぎをしながら机や箪笥の中をひっかきまわし指環を探し出し”白金、白金”と大きな声で喜ぶのでどうしたのかと聞きますと、”これを献納して飛行機を造りましょう”と言うのではじめて判り嬉しく思いました。こんな小さなものですが娘の心が通じて立派な兵器に役立って戴ければと思っています。

京城日報 1944年12月29日

白金：今度は強制買上げ

拒絶すれば懲役十年以下

白金買上げは海軍武官府指定買上班と物資営団で任意買上げを行い、好成績に十一月三十日一応終了したが、更に現戦局に応じ五日附総督府令で白金の強制買上げを断行することになったので重要物資営団が買上げ機関となり買上げを強行することに決定。京城府、同聯盟、日婦京城支部、物資営団で供出を要望している。

強制買上の白金は業者の手持品を含む民間所有の白金若しくは白金合金を使用した装飾品、装身具、身辺品、文房具、什器又は其の屑等であるが国宝物又は御下賜品拝受者が特にその所持を希望し同知事の許可を受けたものは供出しなくてもよい。

供出の方法は適宜の用紙、郵便はがき等で住所氏名、型、個数を記入し営団に宛譲渡の申込をするか都合により愛国班、組合その他の団体で一括申込も差支えない。

買上げ期間は一月末日までに申込み現品も代替物を要する特別のもの以外は同日迄に供出する。価格は普通一匁九十円、官有物は六十一円二銭五厘である。

白金製品を転売したり故意に滅失したり一月末日迄に譲渡の申込をせぬ場合又は営団の引取り請求を拒絶した場合は十年以下の懲役又は五万円以下の罰金に処せられる。

Source: National Library of Korea Digital Archive