Nazi leader Richard Foerster passionately preached Hitler’s teachings to Korean schoolchildren and gifted them signed photos of Hitler as they gave him a “Heil Hitler” salute on a train to Seoul (May 11, 1939)

In May 1939, Imperial authorities selected 29 of the best and brightest elementary schoolchildren from across Korea and "rewarded" them with a religious field trip to Ise Grand Shrine in central Japan. On their return trip on May 11, 1939, the children were placed aboard the same train as a Nazi German press delegation traveling from Busan to Seoul. It is during this trip that prominent Nazi diplomat Richard Foerster (1879-1952) interacted with the Korean schoolchildren in a friendly question-and-answer session. They boarded the train in Busan at 6:50 a.m., and arrived in Seoul at 1:35 p.m. with brief stops in Daegu and Daejeon. The exchange was reported in the May 12, 1939 issue of Keijo Nippo, the major colonial propaganda newspaper in Korea which sponsored this field trip.

Foerster with Korean schoolchildren at Daejeon station

During this trip, Foerster is in his element as he skillfully delivers Nazi propaganda so that his messaging is tailored to his particular audience of Korean elementary schoolchildren who were brainwashed in Imperialist ideology and State Shintoism. Foerster compares German reverence for Hitler and the Nazi state to the children’s reverence for Ise Grand Shrine, praises Hitler’s teachings of “justice, conviction, and unity,” and tells the children that Germany’s youth are being trained to defeat Bolshevism, communism, and other “enemies of mankind.” Foerster grapples with one of the children in a judo match, pretends to be overpowered, and praises Japan for possessing such strong “young citizens.” The meeting concludes with a group "Heil Hitler" salute which is led by the top student in the group.

The Nazi delegation continued through a packed schedule of official visits, luncheons, receptions, and banquets in Seoul before leaving for Manchuria the following day, May 12, 1939.

Even among the 29 students, there was a pecking order, and the eight students named in the articles were apparently considered the elites in this group. It is notable that seven of the eight students named in the article hail from present-day North Korea. Among these elites, one student stands out as the top leader: Hwang Yong-gyeom, whose name appears the most times in the recorded exchanges. He is the one who has the "honor" of leading his fellow students in making a group Heil Hitler salute.

The photos show: Foerster greeting the child representatives during the brief stop at Daejeon Station around 11:03 a.m.; 13 members of the German press delegation descending the steps of Chōsen Shrine; the Korean schoolchildren’s shrine-visit group after reporting their Ise Shrine visit at Chōsen Shrine; and a higher-resolution image of Foerster from a press event during the same trip in Japan or Korea.

[Translation]

Gyeongseong Ilbo (Keijo Nippo), May 12, 1939

The Spirit of Korean Elementary Schoolchildren Shown to the Delegation
Friendly Exchange in the Train

On May 11th, the group of elementary school representatives from throughout Korea, who were traveling to visit the Imperial Shrines and happened to be riding the Akatsuki train together with the German newspaper delegation, visited the delegation in the train in Busan and offered words of welcome filled with the love and respect of Japan’s young citizens.

The members of the delegation were delighted. Immediately, cheers and applause broke out like a storm. Delegation leader Richard Foerster tightly clasped the hand of Song Gi-taek (송기택, 宋基澤) of Sariwon Shikishima Elementary School, who had delivered the words of welcome, and with his face breaking into a broad smile, Foerster said:

“The impression I have just received is truly the first impression that our delegation has received since coming to Korea. Moreover, the impression received from these spirited and splendid second-class citizens of Korea will become one of the greatest impressions of our entire journey, and I believe that I will never forget it for the rest of my life. And toward Japan, which possesses such splendid young citizens as you, I once again express my profound respect.”

The dignified appearance of the children, small though they were, yet conscious of their responsibility as representatives, completely satisfied the delegation. Each member gripped their hands one after another with large hands, placed them on their knees, patted their heads, and repeatedly said, “Splendid, splendid!”

Thus, inside the international express train cutting through the light rain, a rare flower of Japanese-German friendship blossomed, leaving a deep and powerful impression not only on the German newspaper delegation, but also on our group of children who visited the Imperial Shrines.

In addition, as a token of gratitude to the representatives of all Korean elementary schoolchildren, the delegation leader signed a message addressed to all elementary schoolchildren, also signed two photographs of Führer Hitler, and presented them to the representative children together with a box of fruit.

The Korean Children Have a Spirit of Imperial Subjecthood Joined to the Nazi Soul
A Roundtable Exchange in the Train Between the German Newspaper Delegation and the Group of Schoolchildren
Words of Welcome Delivered on Behalf of All Korean Elementary Schoolchildren
The Delegation Is Deeply Impressed by Pure Yet Sharp Questions

On May 11th, the group of Korean elementary schoolchildren returning to Seoul on the same Akatsuki train visited the German newspaper delegation, which was also on its way to Seoul aboard the Akatsuki. After delivering words of welcome on behalf of 800,000 elementary schoolchildren throughout Korea, they gathered around Delegation Leader Foerster and held a roundtable discussion titled “Asking About Germany.”

After all, these were outstanding children selected from throughout Korea. Each question, while innocent, contained sharp observations about the developments in the world and Germany’s advance. Delegation Leader Foerster answered while exchanging glances with the assembled delegation members, not treating even a single word carelessly.

The first-rate German newspapermen, who had come from turbulent Europe and prided themselves on their strong nerves, scratched their heads and said, “This is too much for us. We are no match for them.” They focused their astonishment and interest on the children’s earnest questioning. Afterward, a splendid basket of fresh fruit was presented by the delegation leader to the children.

The following is the question-and-answer exchange.

What Are Führer Hitler’s Teachings for Young Citizens?
Justice, Conviction, and Unity

Hwang Yong-gyeom (Manwol School, Kaesong, Gyeonggi Province): We visited the Ise Grand Shrine, the sacred place of our country, and returned filled with extraordinary gratitude and great resolve. So first, there is something I would like to ask. In Germany, too, is there a sacred place like the Ise Grand Shrine, which serves as the center of the national spirit?

Foerster: Of course there is. There certainly is. In Munich now, a temple is being built that gives form to the spirit of His Excellency Führer Hitler. Just as the Grand Shrine, which you visited, receives the reverence of all of you, this is something to which the entire German people offer the same respect toward Führer Hitler and the German state. Within this spirit of reverence is contained the sound spirit of the German people, who are striving forward in the construction of Greater Germany.

The will of the German people, who fight as enemies those who obstruct Germany’s advance and seek to disturb the true peace of the world, burns forth from this feeling of reverence toward this temple that symbolizes Führer Hitler’s conviction.

Choi Seong-guk (최성국, 崔成國) (Wakatake School, Sinuiju, North Pyongan Province): We respect His Excellency Hitler in our daily lives. I sincerely think that his strong will and courage, which is not surprised by anything, are magnificent. I would like to know how Germany’s young citizens are usually taught by His Excellency the Führer.

Foerster: You have asked a fine question. I myself very much wanted to speak to you about that. His Excellency Hitler values justice, conviction, and unity. Therefore, toward the young citizens who will bear the future of Germany, he teaches that they should always unite as one and proceed toward what they believe to be right, possess a strong patriotic spirit that can advance resolutely without flinching in the slightest, and become a great people who will smash, for the sake of the world, everything that obstructs Germany’s advance, such as Bolshevism and communism.

That is just the same as how you are usually taught to become loyal and good Japanese subjects. For a growing nation, the cultivation of its second-class citizens is of great importance. A tenacious, iron-like, strong and firm will: that is the teaching constantly given by His Excellency Führer Hitler to German elementary schoolchildren. I think that this teaching may be incorporated as it is into your daily lives as well.

Now, let me ask you a question. With what state of mind do you study?

Hwang Yong-gyeom: There is something called the Imperial Subjects' Oath, and we study based on it. We are constantly filled with the conviction that we must discipline our spirit and body, possess the great resolve that we are subjects of the Great Japanese Empire, and devote our loyalty to His Majesty the Emperor.

Foerster: Yes, that must be so. Your dignified attitude is precisely something created by the spirit of that oath.

"You Spirited Boys Are the True Image of Korea"
The Delegation Leader and Hwang Yong-gyeom Hold a Judo Match

Jo Nam-cheol (조남철, 曹南喆) (Hinode School, Iri, North Jeolla Province): What did you feel when you first saw the scenery and customs of Korea?

Foerster: That is a slightly difficult question. Actually, a Korean gentleman came to me a short while ago and asked the same question. Since I had only just boarded this train and had not seen Korea at all, I answered that I had no particular impressions to offer.

But now it is different. I have spoken with you like this and received words of welcome for which I cannot thank you enough. Moreover, seeing your spirited appearance, I have received a great impression. I cannot help but feel great wonder toward the soil of Korea, which has produced such splendid elementary schoolchildren. You have truly come to show our delegation the real image of Korea. Thank you.

Oh Dae-hwan (오대환, 吳大煥) (Saiwaichō School, Haeju, Hwanghae Province): How do German elementary schoolchildren usually study?

Foerster: As I said earlier, they study throughout their lives under the teachings of Führer Hitler in order to cultivate unity, love for the fatherland, and conviction in advancing toward justice. Possessing a sound spirit and a sound body: that is the foremost duty imposed on elementary schoolchildren.

Hwang Yong-gyeom: What do they do in order to cultivate sound bodies?

Foerster: Well, they play sports. Swimming, soccer, volleyball, German swordsmanship, things like that. What do you do?

Hwang Yong-gyeom: We also play sports.

Foerster: Do you not do judo?

Song Gi-taek (송기택, 宋基澤) (Shikishima Elementary School, Sariwon, Hwanghae Province): We do judo too. We also do kendo. We do them not only to train the body, but also to train the spirit.

Foerster: You do judo… even boys like you… All right, shall we have a match?

(The delegation leader stood up and grappled with Hwang Yong-gyeom, but was pushed back by the boy’s spirited strength, staggered, and cried out, “I give up, I give up!”)

Foerster: You are strong indeed! Japan is fortunate to have young citizens such as you.

Lee Sang-jun (리상준, 李相俊) (Honmachi School, Ranan, North Hamgyong Province): In addition to that, we also do exercises called Imperial Subject Gymnastics, in which we swing wooden swords.

Hwang Yong-gyeom: If one were to say “the German spirit” in a single phrase, what would it be?

Foerster: Hmm, the German spirit?

(At this moment, all the other delegation members also stood up, surrounded Hwang Yong-gyeom, and one after another said, “Deutscher Geist! Deutscher Geist!”)

Lee Nam-su (리남수, 李南壽) (Cheongnam School, Anju, South Pyongan Province): If the Japanese spirit is put into a single phrase, it is the spirit of loyalty to the sovereign and love of country. One could also say that the sacred feeling we gained from our visit to Ise Grand Shrine is itself the Japanese spirit. What is the German spirit?

Foerster: That is a good question. In a single phrase, the German spirit is the burning patriotism by which the entire people unite as one and courageously devote themselves to the country.

Fighting to the End for World Peace
The Resolve of the German People Is Firm

Hwang Yong-gyeom: What kind of resolve do Germans usually possess?

Foerster: This, too, is a very good question. As you know, even now in Europe, the enemies of mankind are still trying to disturb the true peace of the political world. They must be defeated, and Germany, Europe, and the entire world must be placed under a rightful order.

For that purpose, the German people are dedicating everything of themselves and, together with the German state, advancing while eliminating every adversity. To make the will to carry out that advance fiercer — that is the resolve of the German people that you ask about. For the sake of world peace, the German people must still fight the enemies of mankind. At the same time, the resolve of the German people will surely become ever more intense.

Lee Geun-ha (리근하, 李瑾夏) (Nishikichō School, Hamhung, South Hamgyong Province): Finally, through us, the representatives of the children of Korea, I would like to receive words of instruction from Your Excellency the Delegation Leader for the elementary schoolchildren of all Korea — no, of all Japan.

Foerster: That is an honor. I, too, had been thinking that I would like to express my feelings to the elementary schoolchildren of Japan through you.

Elementary schoolchildren of Japan! From now on, continue to discipline your spirit and body even further, and when you grow up, please serve fully as incomparably loyal and good citizens of your fatherland, Japan. For that purpose, you must burn with patriotism and cultivate the power of unity.

And please become citizens who resolutely suppress the enemies of mankind, who disturb the peace of the world and attempt the destruction of culture. Become citizens who serve in the new construction of peace in the East and peace in the world. These are the words I give to you from my heart.

Becoming Friends Through Correspondence From Now On

Hwang Yong-gyeom: Thank you very much. From now on, we would like to correspond with Germany’s young citizens, promote great friendship, and devote ourselves to friendship between Japan and Germany.

Foerster: That is precisely what I desire. Germany’s young citizens will surely receive your letters with respect and affection.

And here is my hope. Until now, youth groups from mainland Japan have visited Germany, greatly shown the spirit of Japan’s young citizens, and enlightened the German people. But from Korea, too, I would like splendid and outstanding elementary schoolchildren such as you to be sent as envoys, and to deepen even further the bonds of the heart with Germany’s elementary schoolchildren.

Do not go back yet. There is one thing left that I want to ask. What do you intend to become when you grow up?

(Asked this, Hwang Yong-gyeom immediately answered, “When I grow up, I would like to become a great soldier or diplomat.”)

Raising the Right Hand and Saying “Heil Hitler!”

Choi Seong-guk (최성국, 崔成國): Thank you very much. We, too, hope that such an opportunity will come as soon as possible.

(Then, when Hwang Yong-gyeom raised his right hand and called out “Heil Hitler,” everyone in the train showed faces overflowing with gratitude.)

In this way, the delegation and the representative children from throughout Korea, who had held their exchange inside the international super-express train as it rushed forward at full speed, left a strong impression on one another and got off at Seoul Station.

Photo: The German newspaper delegation visiting the Chōsen Shrine.

Photo: Greetings at the station: Delegation Leader Foerster shaking hands with the child representatives on the platform at Daejeon Station.

Photo: The group of elementary school representatives from throughout Korea after reporting their visit to Ise Shrine at Chōsen Shrine.

A higher-resolution image of Foerster from a press event during the same trip in Japan or Korea (from Amana Images).

[Transcription]

京城日報 1939年5月12日

使節団一行に示す
半島小学生の意気
車中の交驩

十一日釜山からドイツ新聞使節一行と『あかつき』に乗り合わせた全鮮小学生代表参宮旅行団は車中に一行を訪ね、日本小国民の愛と尊敬とをこめた歓迎の辞をおくった。これには使節団の一行は大喜び。たちまち歓声と拍手の嵐がまきおこった。リハルド団長は歓迎の辞をのべた沙里院敷島小学校の宋基澤君の手を固く握りしめながら、満面をほころばせて

『只今うけた感銘は、実に私達一行が朝鮮に来てはじめてうけた感であります。しかもこの元気な立派な朝鮮の第二の国民からうけた感銘は私達の全旅行を通じて最も大きな感銘の一つとなり終世忘れることはできないと信じます。そして諸君のように立派な小国民を持つ日本に対し、改めて深大なる尊敬の意を表します』

と挨拶した。小さいながら代表としての覚悟をもつ、りりしい児童たちの姿はすっかり一行を満足させ、一人一人が太い手で矢継ぎ早に握手せめにする。そして膝にのせたり頭をなでたり『偉いぞ偉いぞ』の連発である。かくて小雨を切って走る国際急行列車の中に珍しい日独親善の花が咲きドイツ新聞団にはもちろん、我等の参宮旅行団にも深い大きな感銘をのこしたのである。なお団長は全鮮小学生代表へ感謝の印として全小学生へ贈るメッセージとヒトラー総統の写真二枚にそれぞれ署名し、それに果物を一箱そえて代表児童一行へ贈った。

ナチ魂に結ぶ半島児童の臣民精神
独逸新聞使節と参宮学童団の車中交驩座談会
全鮮小学生に代って歓迎の言葉を述べる
純真ながらも鋭い質問に使節団感歎

十一日『あかつき』で来城の途にあったドイツ新聞使節団一行を、同じ『あかつき』で帰城した全鮮小学生伊勢参宮旅行団は車中に訪問し、全鮮八十万小学生に代り歓迎の言葉を述べたのち、フェルスター団長をとりまいて『ドイツを尋ねる』座談会をひらいた。何しろ全鮮から選抜された優秀児童だ。質問の一つ一つが純真な中にも、世界の動きとドイツの前進に対する鋭い観察がこもって、フェルスター団長はなみいる使節団員と目で合図しながら答え、一言もおろそかにしない。動乱のヨーロッパから来た、神経の太さには自信のあるドイツ一流の新聞人達も『これには叶わぬ、我々も顔負けだ』と頭をかき、児童達の真剣な質問ぶりに驚異と興味を集中させ、終って後立派な生果一籠が団長から児童等へ贈られたのであった。以下はその質問応答ぶり。

小国民に与えるヒ総統の訓えは？
正義と信念と団結

黃鏞謙（京畿開城満月校）：私達は我国の聖地である伊勢の皇大神宮に参拝し、非常な感謝と大きな覚悟とを抱いて帰りました。そこで先ずおたずねしたいことがあります。ドイツにも国民精神の中心となる皇大神宮のような神様がいらっしゃいますか。

フ団長：あるとも。大ありだよ。今ミュンヘンに、ヒトラー総統閣下の精神を形にあらわした寺院のようなものがたてられているが、これは丁度、諸君が参拝してきたという皇大神宮のように、ドイツ国民全体がヒトラー総統とドイツ国家とに対すると同等の尊敬をささげるもので、この尊敬の精神の中に、大ドイツ建設に邁進するドイツ国民の健全なる精神がこめられているのだ。ドイツの前進を阻み、世界の正しい平和を乱そうとする者を、敵として闘うドイツ国民の意志は、ヒトラー総統の信念を表徴したこの寺院のようなものに対する尊敬の念の中から燃えてくる。

崔成國（平北新義州若竹校）：僕達はヒトラー閣下を日頃尊敬しています。あのたくましい意志と何事にも驚かない勇気とは、心から偉いと思っています。ドイツの小国民は平素、総統閣下からどんな風に教えられているのでしょうか。それを知りたいのです。

フ団長：いいことを尋ねてくれた。私もそれを諸君に是非話したいと思っていたのだよ。ヒトラー閣下は正義と信念と団結とを重んじられる。だからドイツの将来を背負う小国民に対しては、常に一致団結して正しいと信じる所に向い、断乎と進んで少しもひるまぬ強い愛国心を持ち、ドイツの前進を阻む一切のものをボルセヴィズムや共産主義とかを世界のために打ち破る偉大な国民となるよう教えられているのだ。それは丁度諸君が、平素忠良なる日本国民となるよう教えられているのと同じだね。伸びる国家にとっては第二の国民の養成が重大である。ねばり強く鉄の様に強い固い意志、これがドイツの小学生に常に与えるヒ総統閣下の訓えだが、この訓はそのまま諸君の日頃の生活にもとり入れていいのではないかと思う。

そこで今度は私から尋ねよう。諸君はどんな心構えの下に勉強しているのかね。

黃鏞謙：皇国臣民の誓詞というものがあり、これを本にして勉強しています。精神と身体を鍛錬し、私共は大日本帝国の臣民であるという大覚悟をもって天皇陛下に忠義を尽すという信念を絶えず持っているのです。

フ団長：そうだろう。諸君のそのりりしい態度こそ、その誓詞の精神がつくり上げたものなんだ。

元気な君たち
朝鮮の本当の姿だ
団長・黃君と柔道試合

曹南喆（全北裡里日出校）：はじめて朝鮮の風物を御覧になってどんなことをお感じになりましたか。

フ団長：これは一寸困った質問だね。実は先程も、或る朝鮮の方がこられて、それと同じ質問をされたが、何しろこの列車に乗ったばかりで朝鮮というものを少しも見ていない。別に申上げるような感想はないとお答えしたが、しかし今は違う。諸君とこうしてお話をし、感謝に堪えぬ歓迎の言葉を頂いた。しかも、元気な諸君の姿を見て大きな感銘をうけているよ。このように立派な小学生を作りあげた朝鮮の土に、大きな驚異を感じないではいられない。諸君は全く、我々一行に朝鮮の本当の姿を見せに来てくれたようなものだ。有難う。

吳大煥（黃海道海州幸町校）：ドイツの小学生は日頃どんな風に勉強していますか。

フ団長：先程もいった通り、団結力と祖国愛と正義に進む信念を養うため、一生、ヒトラー総統の教えの下に勉強している。健全なる精神と健全なる身体を持つこと。それが小学生に課せられた第一の務めなのだ。

黃鏞謙：健全なる身体を養うためには、どんなことをしていますか。

フ団長：そうだね。スポーツをやっているね。水泳、蹴球、バーレーボール、ドイツの剣術、そんなことをやっているね。諸君は一体何をやっているかね。

黃鏞謙：やはりスポーツをやります。

フ団長：ジュウドウはやらないのかね。

宋基澤（黃海道沙里院敷島小学校）：柔道もやります。剣道もやります。身体だけを鍛えるのでなく、精神を鍛えるためにやるのです。

フ団長：柔道をやっているのか．．．諸君のような少年でも．．．よし私と一番試合をしようか。（団長は立って、黃君と組合ったが、少年の元気な力に押されたじたじとなり、『叶わぬ叶わぬ』と悲鳴をあげた）

フ団長：強いな、諸君のような小国民を持つ日本は幸福だ。

李相俊（咸北羅南本町校）：僕達はそのほかに皇国臣民体操といって木刀を振ってする体操もやります。

黃鏞謙：ドイツ精神とは一口に言えばどんなことですか。

フ団長：ウムドイツ精神か（このとき他の団員一同も立ちあがり黃君をとりまいてドイツガイスト、ドイツガイストと口々に言った）

李南壽（平南安州清南校）：日本精神は一口にいえば忠君愛国の精神です。私達が伊勢参宮で得た神々しい気持がもう日本精神そのものであるともいえます。ドイツ精神とはどんなものですか。

フ団長：いい質問だよ。ドイツ精神は一口にいえば全国民が一致団結して勇敢に国のために尽くす、燃えるような愛国心なのだ。

世界平和の為に飽く迄戦う
独遊国民の覚悟は固い

黃鏞謙（京畿開城満月校）：ドイツ人は平素どんな覚悟をもっていますか。

フ団長：これもなかなかよい質問だ。諸君の知っての通り今ヨーロッパでは依然として人類の敵が正しい政界平和を攪乱しようとしている。これを破りドイツをヨーロッパを全世界を正当なる秩序の下に納めなければならぬ。そのためにはドイツ国民は自己の一切を捧げてドイツ国家とともに、あらゆる艱難を排除しつつ前進しているが、その前進を行う意志を猛烈にすることが、即ちお尋ねのドイツ国民の覚悟なのだよ。世界の平和の為にドイツ国民はまだまだ人類の敵と戦わねばならぬ。同時に、ドイツ国民の覚悟は愈々強烈の度を加えるであろう。

李瑾夏（咸南咸興錦町校）：最後に私達朝鮮の代表児童を通じて全朝鮮の、いや全日本の小学生に団長閣下のお教えの言葉を頂きたいと思います。

フ団長：それは光栄です。諸君を通じて日本の小学生に私の気持を述べたいと私も考えていたのだ。日本の小学生諸君はこれからも一層精神と身体を鍛錬し、大きくなったら祖国日本の忠良無比な国民として、充分御奉公して下さい。それには愛国心に燃え団結力を養わねばいけない。そして、世界の平和を乱し、文化の破壊を企てる人類の敵を断固と抑え、東洋の平和、世界の平和の新しい建設に役立つ国民となって下さい。これが諸君に与える私の心からの言葉です。

今後文通して仲善しになる

黃鏞謙（京畿開城満月校）：有難うございました。私達はこれから、ドイツの小国民と文通して大いに親睦を図り、日独両国の親善に尽くしたいと思いますが。

フ団長：願うところです。ドイツの小国民はきっと諸君のお手紙を尊敬と愛とを持って迎えるでしょう。それから私の希望だが、ドイツにはこれまで日本内地から青少年団が訪れ大いに日本小国民の意気を示しドイツ国民を啓発してくれたが、朝鮮からもまた諸君のようなすぐれた立派な小学生を使節として送り、ドイツの小学生と心の交りを一層強く結んでもらいたい。

まだ帰ってはいけない。たずねたいことが一つ残っている。君は大きくなったら何になるつもりかね。

問われた黃君は言下に『大きくなったら偉い軍人か外交官となりたいと思う』と答える。

右手をあげてハイルヒトラー

崔成國：有難う御座いました。私達もその機会が一日も早くくることを希望致します（そして黃君が右手をあげハイルヒトラーと呼ぶと、車中の一同は感謝を面にあふれさする）

こうして、驀進する国際超特急の中で開かれた使節団と全鮮代表児童とは、互いに強い感銘をのこし、京城駅で下車した。

• 写真：朝鮮神宮参拝の独逸新聞使節一行
• 写真：駅頭の挨拶：大田駅歩廊におけるフェルスター団長と児童代表の握手
• 写真：朝鮮神宮に伊勢神宮参拝の奉告を終えた全鮮代表小学生参宮団の一行

Note:

The Imperial Subjects' Oath (皇国臣民ノ誓詞), which Hwang Yong-gyeom mentions, was promulgated throughout Korea on October 2, 1937. It was actually drafted by a Korean collaborator named Lee Gag-jong (리각종, 李覺鐘), and then finalized by then Governor of occupied Korea, Minami Jirō. The oath is as follows. 

• 私共は、大日本帝国の臣民であります。
• 私共は、心を合わせて天皇陛下に忠義を尽します。
• 私共は、忍苦鍛錬して立派な強い国民となります。
• 我等は皇国臣民なり、忠誠以て君国に報ぜん。
• 我等皇国臣民は互に信愛協力し、以て団結を固くせん。
• 我等皇国臣民は忍苦鍛錬力を養い以て皇道を宣揚せん。
• We are subjects of the Great Empire of Japan.
• We are united in our hearts in our loyalty to His Majesty the Emperor.
• We will persevere and train ourselves to become a fine and strong people.
• We are subjects of the Imperial State, and we will repay the sovereign nation with loyalty.
• We, the subjects of the Imperial State, shall love and cooperate with each other, and thus solidify our unity.
• We, the subjects of the Imperial State, shall cultivate the power of endurance and discipline, and thereby proclaim the Imperial Way.

Source: Digital Newspaper Archive, National Library of Korea

See also:

• In May 1939, a Nazi German newspaper delegation toured colonial Korea and was welcomed in Seoul with swastika flags, shrine visits, and official receptions (link)
• ‘Hitler’s right-hand man’ Richard Foerster and Nazi editor Peter Winkelnkemper enjoy Korean cuisine and kisaeng entertainment at a Seoul press banquet, May 11, 1939 (link)

‘Hitler’s right-hand man’ Richard Foerster and Nazi editor Peter Winkelnkemper enjoy Korean cuisine and kisaeng entertainment at a Seoul press banquet, May 11, 1939

It is May 11, 1939 between 7 and 9 p.m. at a high-end restaurant in colonial Seoul hosted a banquet honoring a Nazi German delegation led by Richard Foerster (1879-1952), who served as a leader in German-Japanese diplomacy after retiring from active naval service. In the photo, he appears at the center with his mouth open, a Korean kisaeng standing just behind him.  Sitting to Foerster's right, holding chopsticks, appears to be Peter Winkelnkemper (1902-1944), the editor-in-chief of Cologne Nazi newspaper Westdeutscher Beobachter.  

Original Caption: The newspaper delegation enjoying Korean cuisine. Delegation Head Richard Foerster is in the center.

Also in attendance were representatives from all the major newspapers of Korea, including the three main Korean language newspapers (Maeil Sinbo, Dong-A Ilbo, Chosun Ilbo). The opening remarks were delivered by Choi Rin, president of Maeil Sinbo, who praised Imperial Japanese rule in Korea under the slogans “Japan-Korean unification,” and called for Japan and Germany to “smash” the Soviet Union. During the Korean War, Choi Rin would be abducted to North Korea, where he died in 1958. Dong-A-Ilbo and Chosun Ilbo would later be shut down by authorities in 1940, leaving Maeil Sinbo as the last remaining Korean-language newspaper in Korea.

The Nazi German guests were entertained by Kisaeng, or Korean female entertainers who sing, dance, play musical instruments and write poems to entertain upper-class men. In earlier times, their work did not necessarily always involve sexual service, but during Japanese colonial rule of Korea, they were more closely associated with sex work. By the 1940s, the vast majority were involved in prostitution. 

Adjacent to this article is another article introducing us to the German resident in Imperial Japan who volunteered to translate and guide the delegation: Carl Raymon, a German immigrant from Bohemia who settled in Hokkaido, Japan, married a local, and founded a sausage business that still exists to this day. Foerster helped out Raymon's business in 1928 when his warship docked in Hakodate and made big purchases of his meat products.

Japanese online biographies remember Raymon as a German artisan who loved Japan, developed livestock and meat-processing techniques, and suffered persecution and suspicion during the wartime period after his business was taken over by the authorities. However, this article portrays him as being in very good terms with Imperial Japanese and Nazi authorities: in Korea as an advisor to the colonial regime, and as a volunteer guide and translator for the Nazi delegation, while quoting him praising Foerster as the "right-hand man of Hitler". It goes to show that the popular legacy narrative about Raymon is incomplete and potentially sanitized.

The third article introduces Lieutenant General Kobayashi, who had befriended Foerster during the 1937 coronation naval review for King George VI and his subsequent visit to Germany.

[Translation]

Gyeongseong Ilbo (Keijo Nippo), May 12, 1939

Relaxing Amid Korean Atmosphere
Japanese-German Fellowship of the Pen 
The Shared Mission of Serving their Nations Through Journalism
Welcome, Envoys of Our Allied Nation!

The German newspaper delegation, which entered Seoul on the 11th, attended a welcoming banquet that evening at Meigetsukan, hosted by representatives of the Keijō Nippō, Maeil Sinbo, Chōsen Shimbun, Dong-A Ilbo, Chosun Ilbo, Osaka Asahi Shimbun Korea Edition, Osaka Mainichi Shimbun Korea Edition, and Dōmei News Agency, where they engaged in a warm fellowship of pens between Japan and Germany.

At Meigetsukan, which served as the venue for the evening, the grand entrance and the path leading to the banquet hall were beautifully decorated with the Japanese Rising Sun and swastika flags to welcome the party. The fellowship of pens between Japan and Germany began with a powerful welcoming address by President Choi Rin (최린, 崔麟) of the Maeil Sinbo, representing the hosts:

“It is an honor to welcome newspaper envoys from our dear allied nation Germany to the Korean peninsula amid the Holy War. The governance of the Korean peninsula is founded on the spirit of impartial benevolence and Japanese-Korean unification, and the Korean peninsula today is becoming increasingly important as a central axis in the construction of the New Order in East Asia. At such a time, it is truly the most gratifying occasion to welcome here the representatives of the press organs of our allied Germany, which is advancing toward the construction of a New Order in Europe, and for East and West to respond to one another in smashing, with the pen, the red Soviet Union: the enemy of world peace.”

The toasts were then exchanged. Next, as representative of the delegation, Deputy Delegation Head Peter Winkelnkemper, editor-in-chief of the Westdeutscher Beobachter, rose briskly to applause and gave the following impassioned reply:

“We are grateful for the heartfelt welcome extended by all levels of Japanese society, public and private, and this visit to Korea has deepened that feeling all the more. The true value of this spiritual peninsula could be fully understood from the heartfelt welcome shown to us on our journey from Busan to Seoul. This evening, too, I am pleased to have the honor of attending this banquet hosted by the representatives of Seoul’s newspapers and news agencies. Sharing the same mission of serving the nation through journalism, let us take up the sword of culture that we possess, crush communism from its roots, and advance straight ahead toward the construction of a New World Order.”

With this forceful and passionate response, he pledged righteous anti-communism bound together by the pen, deeply moving those in attendance. Cups of friendship between Japan and Germany were exchanged over rare Korean cuisine and drinks poured by kisaeng. Thus, the banquet of Japanese-German cultural fellowship, especially meaningful amid the Holy War, came to a successful close shortly after 9 p.m.

That evening, the delegation was completely captivated by the exotic atmosphere: the vivid colors they were seeing for the first time, the distinctive fragrance, the neat and graceful costumes of the kisaeng, and more. In particular, when they witnessed the kisaeng’s skillful performance of classical Korean dance, the members of the delegation repeatedly exclaimed in unison, “Sehr schön!” — meaning “very splendid!” — praising the traditional dance handed down from ancient Korea.

[Photo caption: The newspaper delegation enjoying Korean cuisine. Delegation Head Richard Foerster is in the center.]

Delegation Head Richard Foerster Is the Führer’s Right-Hand Man
Pro-Japanese Mr. Raymon Speaks

Carl Raymon (46-years-old) is a pro-Japanese German who serves as an advisor to the Livestock Section of the Government-General of Korea. Twenty years ago, he was invited to Japan as a livestock engineer and worked toward the development of Hokkaidō. Three years ago, he became an advisor to the Government-General and came to Korea.

Upon learning that Delegation Head Richard Foerster, his great senior and old acquaintance, had entered Seoul, Raymon hurried back from Harbin. On the morning of May 11th, after consulting with Yoshifuchi, an official of the Foreign Affairs Department of the Government-General, Engineer Carl Raymon volunteered to serve as guide for the delegation during their stay in Seoul.

Engineer Raymon is a great pro-Japanese figure. Sixteen years ago, he married Yūko, the daughter of Mr. Katsuta, head of the Hakodate fire brigade. He now has two children, Finny, age five, and Alice, age four. In this way, he is a true practitioner of friendship between Japan and Germany.

Speaking in fluent Japanese, he described his excitement at the arrival of the newspaper delegation:

“Richard Foerster is truly a splendid man. He served as Hitler’s right-hand man and devoted himself to the construction of Germany. He is not someone who is superficial when it comes to diplomacy. Moreover, he is a man who has understanding and respect for Japan.

“Because of the European war, there was a time when friendship between Japan and Germany was broken. That was during the war — twelve years ago now. For the purpose of rebuilding Japanese-German friendship, he visited Japan. At that time, he also came to Hokkaidō, and I served as his guide and liaison.”

[Photo: Engineer Raymon]

O Friend of the Sea
Lieutenant General Kobayashi Comes from Afar, Eager to Revisit His Old Acquaintance, Delegation Head Foerster

“Oh, my dear old friend of the sea from two years ago!” Welcoming the arrival of the newspaper delegation from our allied nation Germany in the Korean peninsula, the person joyfully awaiting reunion with the words, “Oh, my dear old friend of the sea from two years ago,” is Lieutenant General Kobayashi Sōnosuke, commander of the Jinhae (진해, 鎭海) Naval Station.

In May of the year before last, Lieutenant General Kobayashi, then a rear admiral, served as the commander when he accompanied the cruiser Ashigara as the representative of the Imperial Japanese Navy to the unprecedentedly grand ceremony of the coronation of His Majesty King George VI of Britain. At the coronation fleet review held off Spithead, he flew the Imperial warship flag and magnificently displayed the imposing dignity of the Japanese Navy.

During his visit to Germany, Kobayashi formed a friendship with Admiral Richard Foerster, head of the delegation now visiting Korea, and the two exchanged a firm handshake of friendship between the Japanese and German navies. For Admiral Foerster himself, the one old acquaintance whom he would meet in this foreign land is none other than Lieutenant General Kobayashi.

Upon learning on May 11th that the delegation had entered Seoul, Lieutenant General Kobayashi left Jinhae as if flying and unexpectedly appeared in Seoul that evening, entering his familiar inn, Tenshinrō. On the eve of the long-awaited meeting, a reporter visited him at his lodging, where he spoke as follows about his joy after not having seen him in a long time:

“I wanted to see him again as soon as possible. Fortunately, tomorrow I will be able to meet him at the Governor-General’s residence at Waeseongdae (왜성대, 倭城臺) for the first time in some while, and I am very pleased.

“Admiral Foerster has now retired from active service, but despite his advanced age, he is more vigorous than ever. Even now, his name shines brightly as a great hope of the German Navy. At present, he occupies the important positions of president of the Japan-Germany Association and president of the Japan-Germany Cultural Association, and he has devoted himself completely, body and soul, to friendship between Japan and Germany.

“Had the schedule permitted, I would very much have liked him to see Jinhae. It is truly regrettable that we will have only a brief conversation.

“In particular, the Admiral’s character is the very picture of solemn integrity. One can strongly perceive in him the bearing of an old warrior. Admiral Foerster’s personality itself is a manifestation of the Nazi spirit.”

[Photo: Lieutenant General Kobayashi at ease in Tenshinrō, speaking of his joy.]

[Transcription]

京城日報 1939年5月12日

朝鮮情緒に寛ぐ
日独ペンの交驩
新聞報国の使命も同じく
ようこそ盟邦の使節

十一日入城したドイツ新聞使節団一行は当夜明月館に開かれた京城日報、毎日新報、朝鮮新聞、東亜日報、朝鮮日報、大朝、大毎、同盟通信社代表の歓迎宴に臨んで親しく日独ペン交驩を行った。この夜会場に当てられた明月館では大玄関から交驩宴場に至るまで日の丸とハーケンクロイツ旗をもって美しく飾り立て一行を迎えた日独ペン交驩の杯は先ず主催側代表：

崔毎新社長の：聖戦下半島にわが親愛なる明邦ドイツから新聞使節をお迎えすることは光栄である。半島統治は即ち一視同仁、内鮮一体の精神であって現下の半島は興亜新秩序建設の枢軸として益々重要である。かかる時欧州新秩序建設に邁進しつつある明邦ドイツの言論機関代表をここに迎えて東西相呼応して世界平和の敵赤色ソ聯をペンで打砕くということはまことに欣快事である。

の力強い歓迎挨拶に始まってとりかわされ、続いて使節団側代表としてウェストドイツチュル・ベオバハター主筆、ペーター・ウィンケルンケムパー副団長が拍手を浴びてサッと起立：

私共は日本朝野を挙げての心からの歓迎を感謝しているが、この朝鮮訪問に当って一層その感を深めた。精神半島の真価は釜山から京城へ来るまでの心を映しての歓迎振りで充分察知することが出来た。今夕はまた京城新聞、通信各代表者の招宴に列する光栄を得たことは嬉しい。新聞報国の使命を同じくするわれわれはわれわれの持つ文化の剣を執って共産主義を根底から叩きつぶして世界新秩序の建設に向って一路進撃しようではありませんか。

と力強く熱情溢るる答辞を述べてペンで結ぶ正義防共を誓って参列者の感激を集め、珍しい朝鮮料理と妓生のお酌で日独親善の酒杯をやりとりして聖戦下意義ひとしお深い日独文化交驩の宴を同夜九時過ぎ盛況裡に閉じたが当夜一行ははじめて見る鮮烈な色彩と特有のかおり、清楚な妓生の衣裳等々にすっかり異国情緒に魅せられ、殊に妓生の妙技朝鮮古典舞踊には一行口を揃えて『ゼヤーシェーン』（素晴らしいの意味）を連発してその朝鮮古来伝統の舞を讃美していた。

【朝鮮料理に舌鼓を打つ新聞使節、中央がフエ団長】

フエ団長は総統の片腕
親日家レ氏談

本府畜産課嘱託をしている親日家独逸人カール・レイモン氏（四六）は二十年前畜産技師として招聘を受け北海道の開発に努力した人だが、三年前本府の嘱託となり来鮮したもので、今度大先輩で旧知の間柄であるフェルスター団長の入城を知るやハルビンから飛んで帰り十一日午前中吉淵本府外務部事務官と相談の上一行の滞城中の案内役を買って出たカール・レイモン技師は大いの親日家で今から十六年前函館の消防組頭勝田氏の令嬢ユウ子さんと結婚。今ではフィニーさん（五つ）アリスさん（四つ）の二児を設けている程の日独親善の実行家である。同氏は鮮やかな日本語で新聞使節団入城の感激を語った。

『リハルド・フェルスターさんは実に立派な人で、ヒトラーさんの右腕となって独逸建設に尽くした人です。余り外交の表面には起たない人です。それに日本に理解と尊敬を持っている人です。欧州戦争のため一時日本と独逸の親善が破れたことがありましたので、戦争即ち今から十二年前でした。日独親善の建直しのため日本を訪れました。その時北海道にも来られたので、私が案内役と連絡係をやりました』

【写真＝レイモン技師】

おお海の友よ
遥々と旧知のフエ団長を訪ね
再会を喜ぶ小林中将

明邦ドイツ新聞使節団を半島に迎えて『オー懐かしき二年前の海の友よ』とよろこびその再会を楽しく待っている人は鎮海要港部司令官小林宗之助中将である。

中将は一昨年五月曠古の盛典たる英国皇帝ジョージ六世陛下の戴冠式に帝国海軍代表として『足柄』に便乗スピットヘッド沖で行われた戴冠奉祝観艦式に帝国軍艦旗を掲げて堂々たる日本海軍の威容を発揮した時の司令官（当時少将）で、今回来朝した使節団長リハルド・フェルスター海軍大将とはドイツ訪問の際親交を結び日独海軍親善の固い握手を交わしたことがあるので当のフェルスター大将とても異郷で逢う旧知といえばひとり小林中将である。

小林中将は十一日一行の入城を知るや鎮海を飛ぶように立ってその夜ひょっこり京城へ姿を現わしてお馴染みの旅館天真楼へ入ったが、懐かしい今日の会見を前にその前夜宿舎を訪れた記者に”嬉しい久闊の感”を次ぎの如く語る。

一日も早く逢いたかった。幸い明日倭城台総督官邸でしばらく振りでお逢い出来るので嬉しい。フェルスター大将は只今では現役を退いておられますが老齢益々御壮健でいまなおドイツ海軍の大ホープとしてその名声は光り輝いている。現在も日独協会長、日独文化協会長の重要なる位置におられ日独親善には全く身命を捧げて尽くされています。日程さえ許されば是非とも鎮海を見ていただきたいとおもっていましたのに、ほんのひとときの会談では実際残念です。殊に大将のお人柄は謹厳そのもの古武士の面影が深く看取されフェルスター大将の人格そのままナチス精神の現れであります。

【写真＝天真楼で寛いでのよろこびを語る小林中将】

Source: Digital Newspaper Archive, National Library of Korea

See also:

• In May 1939, a Nazi German newspaper delegation toured colonial Korea and was welcomed in Seoul with swastika flags, shrine visits, and official receptions (link)

In 1944, Imperial Japan launched an “all-out campaign” to erase Hangul from public life, mobilizing teachers and Korean youth to destroy Korean signs, books, and even phonograph records

This 1944 news announcement represents one of the darkest moments in the history of the Korean language. In April and May of that year, the Imperial Japanese colonial government in Korea launched a destructive “all-out campaign” to eradicate the visible and audible presence of Hangul from public life. Street signs, advertisements, and signposts written in Korean were torn down. Books, phonograph records, and even the metal typesets used to print Korean newspapers and publications were confiscated and melted down.

When public signs were written in Chinese characters (Hanja), the authorities ordered that Japanese kana readings be appended alongside the characters to ensure that no one would “mistakenly” read them in Korean. For instance, a sign reading 京城, the colonial-era name for Seoul, might have the Japanese reading けいじやう (Keijō) written beside it, to force readers to pronounce it the Japanese way instead of Gyeongseong. Countless Korean cultural artifacts, from printed materials to audio records, were likely lost forever in this campaign of linguistic annihilation.

This policy was the brainchild of Governor-General Kuniaki Koiso, who, in January 1943, declared that Korea was like a disabled body whose brain could not communicate with its limbs. He argued that “in order for the four limbs to move in an orderly fashion under the command of the brain and nervous system, there is no other way but to forcibly put into practice the training of Imperial subjects for everyone, regardless of whether they are government officials or ordinary people.” From this ideology emerged the final and most aggressive phase of Japan’s linguistic colonization—culminating in the April–May 1944 campaign described in this article.

This also explains why, immediately after liberation in August 1945, Korean newspapers could not publish in Korean. The Hangul typefaces had been melted down during this campaign, leaving only the Maeil Sinbo—the last surviving Korean-language paper—with usable type. As a result, newspapers had to continue publishing temporarily in Japanese until new Hangul typefaces could be manufactured.

Finally, the article reveals a chilling pattern familiar in authoritarian movements: the mobilization of youth as enforcers of ideology. Students and children were deployed to lead the destruction of their own language, guiding adults who had not yet “mastered” Japanese. Like later totalitarian revolutions, Imperial Japan understood that the minds of the young were the most malleable—and that by weaponizing their idealism, even cultural self-destruction could be made to look like patriotic duty.

[Translation]

Gyeongseong Ilbo (Keijo Nippo) March 24, 1944

Drive Hangul Out of the Streets!
Practical Campaign for the Thorough Adoption of the Japanese Language in Daily Life

It has been quite some time since the call for the regular use of the Japanese language was first announced. Yet thorough implementation has still not been achieved. As the Korean Federation of National Power recognizes that the first step in imperializing the people lies in living entirely through the Japanese language, it is now drafting specific plans to launch the “Campaign for the Thorough Adoption of the Japanese Language in Daily Life.”

The regular use of Japanese has been promoted repeatedly in the past, but each effort has been short-lived, like a sparkler that quickly fizzles out. This time, however, the movement aims for complete and enduring realization. The campaign period is set from early April through the end of May, under the slogans “Let us practice Japanese in our daily lives” and “Let all residents of every city, town, and township use Japanese together.” Every organization connected to the national body will be mobilized, devoting its efforts to eliminating those who have not yet mastered Japanese.

Educators, students, and children are to take the lead, guiding those who have not yet learned Japanese. At the same time, signs, advertisements, and signposts written in Hangul are to be removed, or Japanese kana readings are to be appended alongside the characters. Metal type for Hangul that has been lying unused is to be collected and supplied for metal resources. Korean-language phonograph records are to be melted down and reused as material for record production. Unneeded Hangul books are to be disposed of. Hangul bibles and hymnals used in churches are to be replaced with Japanese ones. Within households, the “One Japanese Word a Day” campaign is to be carried out.

These items are being considered as part of the action plan. Those who complete Japanese language training courses will have their results officially recognized and will receive a “Certificate Badge.” There will also be awards established for habitual use of Japanese. With such measures, the movement intends to unfold an all-out campaign for the complete adoption of the Japanese language in daily life.

[Transcription]

京城日報 1944年3月24日
街から閉出せ諺文
国語生活の徹底へ実践運動

国語常用が叫ばれてから既に久しい。だが未だに徹底しないので、皇民化の第一歩は国語生活にあると国民総力朝鮮聯盟は『国語生活徹底運動』に乗り出すため目下具体案を練っている。国語の常用は幾度か繰り返されてきたものであるが、その都度線香花火的であり永続性を欠き、いつの間にか消えていたのであるが、今度の運動は徹底的に実践せんとする意図で陽春四月から五月末をその機関とし、『国語生活を実行しよう』『府邑面民揃って国語を使おう』等の実践申合せを行い、あらゆる国体の組織網を総動員し、国語未解得者の解消に挺身する外教育関係者、学生、生徒、児童は陣頭に起って未解者を指導すると共に諺文看板、広告、標柱等を撤去若しくは国語仮名書を併記し、また死蔵諺文活字の供出、朝鮮語音盤を再生し音盤資材として供出、不要諺文図書の処分、教会等の聖書、讃美歌を国語化し家庭内の『一日一語運動』等が実践項目として考えられており、国語講習会修了者の成績を認定し『認定章』をつけ或は国語常用賞を制定、佩用する等徹底的な運動を展開せんものと意気込んでいる。

Source: National Library of Korea, Digital Newspaper Archive 

See also:

• Governor Koiso likened Korea to a disabled body whose brain (regime) could not talk to the limbs (Korean people), so an ‘exclusive use of Japanese’ policy was forced on Koreans, starting with Seoul city employees who were labeled ‘inferior’ and ‘weak-willed’ if they still spoke Korean at work (link)
• Korean staff at Keijo Nippo took over news operations from their former Japanese bosses in Nov 1945 and then sent this message to Korean readers announcing continued publication in Japanese for the time being until Korean typefaces are ready for use (link)
• 1943 editorial calls for Korean language to be wiped out (link)
• Colonial officials claimed 'Korean must naturally stop being spoken as a result of the spread of Japanese' 'no words in Korean can express the essence of the Japanese spirit in a straightforward way' 'Korean will one day be regarded as just another local dialect like the Kyushu dialect' (June 1943) (link)
• Imperial Japan waged an aggressive Japanese language campaign on Korean villages in the '30s and '40s, entering homes to attach Japanese labels on household objects, putting residents under 55 in mandatory classes, applying an "unyielding whip" to "break down their customs and stray dreams" (link)

Imperial Japanese news staff departing Korea wrote last words celebrating the ‘Young Korea’ as a ‘joyous uprising’, praising Kimchi, saying goodbyes to Korean collaborator writers, baring ‘a heart full of desolation’, mourning a daughter’s death, criticizing war leaders… (Nov. 1, 1945)

This is the second part of a two-part series. The first part is posted here.

The following is content from a Seoul newspaper published on November 1, 1945, two and a half months after Japan's surrender in World War II and the liberation of Korea. Gyeongseong Ilbo (Keijo Nippo), the colonial era newspaper that had served as the main propaganda newspaper for the whole of colonial Korea from 1909 to 1945, was still publishing in Japanese as the national newspaper of Korea. The ethnic Japanese staff managed against all odds to retain control over the newspaper during those two and a half months, until they were finally forced to relinquish control to the Korean employees. These Koreans independence activists took over and subsequently continued the publication of this newspaper in Japanese with an avowed Korean nationalist editorial stance from November 2nd until December 11th, 1945.

The very last page of Japanese-controlled Keijo Nippo, Nov. 1, 1945 issue

However, before the ethnic Japanese staff was forced to leave, they were allowed to publish one last issue, dated November 1st, 1945, with the very last page dedicated to farewell messages that they wrote to the Korean people as a memento, in which they eloquently express their sad and conflicted thoughts and feelings. Unfortunately, I found this last page in poor condition with big ink blots, gashes, and faded text, so it was very difficult to read them. Nonetheless, due to the compelling content of these long forgotten messages, I decided it was worth spending some time deciphering them as much as I could. There were seven different essays on this page with six different authors. Due to their sheer length, I shared two of the essays in the first part of this series, and I am sharing the five remaining essays in this post as I unlock this long forgotten time capsule.

There is a lot to unpack in these five essays, but since an in-depth analysis of this cross-section of the post-war Japanese psyche would probably require a dissertation, I will mostly let the words of the authors speak for themselves with some Wikipedia links added for convenience. But I think it will be fair to say that the thoughts and feelings of these Imperial Japanese news editors are extremely complex and defy any simple characterization. So, I'll just comment on a few notable things about these essays.

One of the essays bids farewell to the Korean writers of the Korean Literary Association, a puppet of the colonial regime. The Korean Literary Association was founded in 1939 to nurture Korean writers to serve the colonial regime. The association encompassed both ethnic Korean writers who wrote in Korean and Japanese and ethnic Japanese writers who were residents of Korea and wrote in Japanese, and the works of both groups were considered to be ‘Korean literature’, regardless of how different their cultures and perspectives may have been. In this way, Korean literature of this era became heavily politicized to serve the political interests of Imperial Japan. The association published a literary periodical that was published in both Japanese and Korean, but by May 1942, the Korean language edition was discontinued in the name of ‘Imperialization’ and ‘Japanese-Korean unification’. In an earlier post, I covered the propaganda writings of three of these Korean writers: Yu Jin-oh (유진오/兪鎮午, 1906~1987), Choi Jae-seo (최재서/崔載瑞, 1908~1964), and Lee Seok-hoon (이석훈/李石薫, 1907~?). 

In the postwar era, the three members’ lives took very different courses. Yu Jin-oh became one the early drafters of the South Korean Constitution, worked as a legal scholar and as a prominent conservative politician in South Korea for many years until his death in 1987. Choi Jae-seo continued his academic activities teaching English literature at South Korean universities until his death in 1964. Lee Seok-hoon was arrested by the North Korean People’s Army at the outbreak of the Korean War in July 1950, and his whereabouts are unknown to this day.

Another thing I noticed was the author of one of the essays: Katō Manji, who was born in 1890 and died in 1980. He describes himself as being the chief of the organization department of Keijo Nippo from 1942 to 1945. Doing a quick online search, I learned that, according to a 2008 Asahi Shimbun article, in at least 1941 and 1942, he was also working at the organization department of Asahi Shimbun newspaper in mainland Japan. His surviving family members provided some personal artefacts to Asahi Shimbun, which apparently included reams of directives from the military censors telling him what he was not allowed to publish. For example, one of the rules was "Don't use the word 'white people' (白人)". This suggests that the chief of the organization department was in charge of making sure that the military censor's directives were being followed by the newspaper staff.

This post is a continuation of my ongoing exploration of the old newspaper archives from 1945 Korea that I checked out and photographed at the National Library of Korea in September 2023.

[Translation]

Ten Years of Living in Seoul: Recalling Some of My Memories

By Terada Ei

When I look back at my ten years of life in Korea, various memories naturally come flooding back. Especially for me, it is inevitable that I will feel deeply moved, since I spent one-third of my newspaper career here.

At Keijo Nippo, I spent the longest time in the Arts and Culture Department. Because of this, I became quite close to many Korean cultural figures, which I consider an unexpected but valuable gain. Although I was known as a bit of a sharp-tongued person, I do not recall making any enemies, which is my most significant impression from my life in Korea. It is regrettable that I cannot bid farewell in person to each of these individuals, but even if I don't address each of them by name, I believe that in their hearts, there lies a friendship that will recall me from time to time.

My memories of the time when the so-called Korean Literary Association was formed are particularly profound. In the words that we used back then, Japanese and Korean literati came together as one to move forward. However, among my comrades of that time, some foresaw the inevitability of air raids in Korea and promptly evacuated to mainland Japan, while others quickly disappeared to Tokyo as soon as the situation worsened. When you consider that those were our leaders at that time, and that they were Japanese people, it goes to show that a person's true worth is revealed in times of crisis. I vividly remember traveling to 24 cities throughout Korea to give lectures as part of the so-called New System Movement during the Literary Association days. After the Literary Association became the Literary Patriotic Society, I became somewhat estranged from the scene due to the situation within the newspaper office at the time and the aftermath of an illness.

It is with reluctance that I speak of personal matters, but I lost my only daughter in Seoul. She had always been frail since birth, but she had never gotten sick even once since coming to Korea. After graduating from girls' school, she had become healthy enough to volunteer to assist with the Imperial Navy's work. However, she fell ill with a mild case of bronchitis, but after four days in bed, she passed away unexpectedly in the early hours of December 29. The doctor who saw her then was both the first and last doctor that she saw since coming to Seoul. She was twenty-three when she passed away.

What I gained from my time in Korea are the cherished memories of the many friends that I made, and the only thing that I lost was my hope in life, which I lost with the passing of my daughter.

My wife and I will soon leave Seoul, carrying two backpacks and an urn of ashes. It is difficult to deny that our hearts are filled with a mix of joy and sorrow, a tumult of various emotions.

Farewell, Korea. Farewell, Seoul, and farewell, my friends. Please accept this as my last goodbye in print. (October 31, 1945)

The Creation of a New Culture

By Nakaho Sei

I recall the day I first met General Arnold of the military government. The scene at the military government office, with its Western-style white chalk building, the Oriental-style building in the backyard with its predominantly red colors reminiscent of Beijing's Forbidden City, the American soldiers in khaki uniforms, and the crowd of Koreans in white traditional attire at the gate, formed a unique and unforgettable image in my eyes. From behind this scene, I could see the faint white smoke of burned documents rising into the sky. It felt like a symbol of the culture of tomorrow's Korea.

Looking back, it occurs to me that, whether it be Confucianism, religion, or Oriental music, many elements that added brilliance to Japanese culture from ancient to medieval times came from the Asian continent. However, it was Korea that played the crucial role of being a "bridge" connecting the Asian continent and Japan. Indeed, it may be said that, rather than being a bridge, Korea cultivated many of the ideas born in China and India before passing them on to Japan.

Buddhism is an excellent example of this. Confucianism, especially Cheng-Zhu Neo-Confucianism, was greatly developed in Korea by great philosophers like Yi Hwang. The remarkable flourishing of Cheng-Zhu Neo-Confucianism in Japan during the Tokugawa era owed much to Korean Cheng-Zhu Neo-Confucianism. If it is permissible to say that Cheng-Zhu Neo-Confucianism was an ideological driving force of the Meiji Restoration, then the distant roots of the Meiji Restoration would have to be sought in Korea.

The world, especially in its entirety, has been ravaged by war and will be preoccupied with reconstruction efforts without much time for reflection. In East Asia, Korea suffered the least damage from bombings. From this perspective, Korea is now in a position to be a major nursery and source for the rebuilding of Greater East Asian culture… Korea is blessed with the opportunity to leave a significant mark on the cultural history of East Asia as a creator of culture.

From a geopolitical standpoint, there are various views about the Korean peninsula. However, looking at the map, Korea lies between China and Russia on the Asian continent, facing Japan and the United States across the sea. Korea should combine and refine the cultures of these neighboring countries to construct a new culture, an endeavor that must achieve significant results. Moreover, by nurturing Korea's inherent culture, such as that of the Baekje and Silla kingdoms, we can look forward to the growth of an even better new culture. (October 31)

Through the Newspaper Pages

By Katō Manji

The desperate struggles of the defeated nations, beginning with the establishment of the Badoglio government in Italy and the subsequent occupation by British and American forces, and then spreading to France and the smaller Balkan countries, were tragic to the extreme. These stories, transmitted via foreign telegram, were reported in Japanese newspapers, though only in a limited fashion. Japanese wartime leaders also used these real-life examples to teach the lesson that we must "win at all costs."

However, since August 15, Japan, as a "defeated nation," a label it has borne for the first time since its founding, has faced an increasingly severe and cold reality day by day.

As the chief of the organization department (editor) of Keijo Nippo, I have been in Korea for about three years, starting around the time when the reports of the Guadalcanal campaign began. Since then, amidst the continuously deteriorating circumstances up to this day, I have devoted my modest efforts to newspaper production and publishing. Looking back on this, there are countless things I want to write and say, but my pen is heavy, and progress is slow.

Now, Korea is moving away from Japanese rule and gathering collective wisdom for the construction of a new nation. It is truly a moment of joyous uprising. I can't help but celebrate for the young Korea. In contrast, we are gasping under the bitter dregs of defeat, returning to a chaotic and tumultuous Japan, sinking into the depths of agony. But let us not forget about "rebuilding Japan" and the task of rising from the depths, overcoming a thousand difficulties.

Due to my job, I never stepped out of the editorial office, let alone had the chance to do any inspections within Korea or make many influential Korean acquaintances. However, I am satisfied and take joy in saying goodbye, having known about 400,000 readers through the newspaper pages for about three years.

Light Sprouts

By Ōta Kōichi

The coldness of the desk, resonating with the warmth of the Indian summer outside the window, strikes my heart, reminding me that this is my last page as a reporter for Keijo Nippo.

Looking back, these days have been tumultuous, like being tossed in fierce waves. Even while attending press conferences at the military government office and witnessing the fresh stirrings of a new Korea being born, I was aware of the thinness of my own shadow. It was a lonely realization, but this was my last remaining duty and my greatest joy. Yet, today marks the end of my qualification to sit in that seat.

This April, I experienced two disastrous firestorms in Tokyo. Seeing sprouts emerging from the desolate burnt earth, I found myself shedding tears. Now, I must return to that scorched land, with a heart full of desolation and wandering thoughts, where the autumn wind now blows.

My current state of mind is like that desolate scorched earth. I am seeking sprouting light. I am certain that new sprouts of light are vigorously emerging in a new Japan. I must seek them out and nurture them to pave the way that we should follow.

Let's go home. Farewell, beautiful city of Seoul. May there be light sprouts in your soil too.

My Words

By Ōnuma Chiyo

If my friend waiting in a thatched hut in Shinano asks me what I learned from Korea, I would spontaneously reply, "I learned the taste of kimchi."

My time in Korea was spent in a short period suffering from catarrh, waiting to return to work and being overwhelmed by daily life. I had no leisure to explore the local historical sites, since I spent that time convalescing while reading the meager literature available.

Therefore, my life in this land felt empty, but one unforgettable thing that remained with me was the taste of kimchi. As I gradually became accustomed to its complex and varied flavors, it paralleled how I slowly assimilated into life in Korea. During that time, I became indifferent to the copious yellow dust and the pungent smell of garlic. The scent of the clay soil conveyed a sense of romance. The intense taste of kimchi served as a pleasant sedative to the intense emotions within me, leaving a lasting imprint on me due to its strength.

Though my time here was just over a year, I encountered an unfathomable rush of history. In my heart, which seeks to step into the world of contemplation, this significant event also provided a lesson that could be considered great in some sense.

In the remainder of my life, my heart will probably cherish the taste of kimchi with nostalgia, and hold an unbearable longing for the life I lived in this land for just over a year.

[Transcription]

京城日報 1945年11月1日

京城生活十年

＝思い出の幾つかを拾う＝

寺田 瑛

朝鮮生活十年を顧みると、さまざまの思い出が湧き出るのも無理はない。殊に、私としては私の新聞人生活の三分の一を費やした地である。感慨なからんとしてなき能わざる所以である。

京城日報では学芸部に一番永くいた。そんな関係で、朝鮮の文化人とも相当近づきになり、これは寧ろ意外な収穫であったといい得る。一面に毒舌家だといわれながらも、私は敵を持ったという思い出を一つも持たない。朝鮮生活に於ける私の最も大きい感銘である。今しみじみと離別の言葉をそれ等個々の人たちに捧げ得ないのは残念であるが、特にその名を挙げないにしても、それ等友人自身の胸の中には、私というものを時に応じて回想してくれる友情があるであろう。

いわゆる朝鮮文人協会というものが結成されて、当時の言葉でいえば内鮮、今の表現なら日鮮の文人が打って一丸となって進むことになった頃の思い出は特に深い。だがあの頃の同志の中に、朝鮮にも空襲必至と見抜いて逸早く内地へ引き揚げて行った人もあるし、今度の事態になるや否や、一目散に東京へ姿を消した人もあり、それが当時のリーダー格の人たちであり、また日本人であったことを思うと、やはりイザという時にこそ、その人の真価はわかるということを教えられる。文人協会時代の思い出の中でもいわゆる新体制運動をひっさげて全鮮二十四都市を分担して講演に出たことが印象に蘇える。文人協会が文人報国会になってからは、私は当時の社内事情と病後とのためについ疎遠になってしまった。

個人のことについて述べるのは憚られるが、私がひとり娘を喪ったのも京城である。生来虚弱の子でありながら、朝鮮へ来てからは一度も病気をしたことがなく、女学校卒業後は、逆に自分から進んで海軍の方の仕事を手伝う程の健康になっていたのに、かりそめの気管支炎に臥床四日、十二月二十九日の未明に呆気なく死んでしまった。しかもその時医者に診てもらったのが、彼女が京城へ来て医者にかかった最初であり、最後でもあったのだ。享年二十三であった。

私が朝鮮へ来て得たものは、数多い友人をめぐる懐かしい思い出であり、私が京城へ来て失ったものは、ただこの娘の死をめぐる人生への希望である。

私たち夫妻は、二つのリュックサックと一つの遺骨箱を携えて、不日京城を去るのであるが、互いの胸には喜悲を織りまぜた、さまざまの感情のみが去来すること否み難い。

さらば、朝鮮よ。京城よ。そして友よ。これが私の活字として残す最後の別れであることを受けられたい。（2605-10-31)

新文化の創造

中保 生

はじめてアーノルド軍政長官に会った日である。軍政庁のあの白亜の洋風建築と其の裏庭の丁度北京の紫金城を想わせるような赤い色彩の多い東洋風建築と、褐色の軍服を着ている米国の軍人と、庁舎の門前に群れている白衣の朝鮮服姿とが渾然一つに綜合されて僕の瞳に曾てない不思議な映像を描くのであった。而もそうした映像の陰からは焼いた書類の灰白い煙が漸く大空へ立ち昇っているのである。僕はふと明日の朝鮮文化の象徴を見たような心地がした。

回顧すれば、儒学にせよ、教学にせよ、或は東洋音楽にせよ、凡そ古代中世にわたる日本文化に絢爛たる光彩を添えたものの多くは大陸から渡ったのである。然し、常に其の大陸と日本とをつなぐ『橋』たる使命を果たしたのが、実に朝鮮であった。いな、『橋』というより、支那や印度に産声を挙げたものをここで培養して日本へ手渡したと解すべきものが少なくない。

仏教なぞはまさしく其の最もよい例であった。儒教にしても特に朱子学の如きは李退渓等の大哲学者によってここに大成されたのである。日本の朱子学が徳川時代あのようにすばらしい興隆を見るに至ったのも朝鮮の朱子学に負うところ頗る大なるものがあった。大義名分を説く朱子学が若しも明治維新の思想的原動力であったということにして許されるならば、おそらく明治維新の遠い淵源を朝鮮に求めなくてはならにであろう。

世界は、此の全域上は、その戦火に禍され、今後も復興工作のため十分思索の余裕をもたないが、東亜に於いて爆弾の被害の最も少なかったのが即ち朝鮮である。そうした点からいえば、朝鮮こそ、今や大東亜文化再建の一大苗床たり一大淵藪となるべき環境にあるといわなくてはならい。[illegible]自ら大成者として、東亜の文化史上に偉なる実跡を印すべき機運に恵まれたのである。

地政学的に半島を観ると、そこには幾多の見解もある。然しながら、地図を按ずれば、大陸に於いて支那とロシアとに接し海を隔てては日本と米国とに相対しつつあり、之等隣国の文化を綜合し、揚棄してここに新文化を建設せんとする企図だけでも相当の成果を収めなくてはならない。況んや、百済文化、新羅文化等は兎角あれ朝鮮本然の文化を増育することによって、更によき新文化の成長を待望することが出来るであろう。（10-31)

紙面を通じて

加藤万治

敗戦国民の惨憺なる奮闘の姿は、イタリアにバトリオ政権ができてから米英軍の進駐に始まり、更にフランス、バルカンの諸小国に拡がり、当時、外電により伝えられた悲惨極まる諸諸相は、日本新聞も細々と掲載したのである。日本の戦導者もこれ等の実相を引例して『断じて勝たねばならぬ』事を訓えた。

然るに、八月十五日以降、日本国には肇国以来始めて喫した『戦敗国』という烙印は、余りにも冷厳であり、日一日とその深刻度は加重して来たのである。

私は、京日の整理部長（編輯）として来鮮約三年、ガダルカナル戦の奏報が発表されだした頃からである。以来今日までの悪化一途の諸情勢下にあって、新聞製作や、出版の事に微力を尽くして来た。その一つについて顧みる時、書きたい事、言いたい事は山ほどもあるが、ペン重くして進まない。

いま朝鮮は日本の統治を離れ、新国家建設のため幾多の衆智が凝集されている。洵に歓喜湧起である。若き朝鮮のため慶祝堪えない。逆に我等は、敗戦の苦汁に喘ぎ、混沌極まる祖国日本へ引き揚げてゆくのだ。自ら苦悶のどん底へ落ち込んでゆくのである。だが忘れない、『再建日本』の事を。百千難を克服して深淵から立ち直る事を。

私は職場の関係で編集局から一歩も出なかった。まして鮮内視察の機もなく、知己を得た鮮人有力者も少なかった。然し四十万読者と紙面を通じて約三年相識の間柄であった事を、満足とし喜びとしてお別れをする。

光芽

太田耕一

これが京城日報の記者として与えられた最後の紙面であるという、窓外の秋は、今日は小春のあたたかさを見せているのに響いている机の冷えが、何かしみとおるほどに胸にこたえてくる。

顧みれば、はげしい波の中にもまれるような月日であった。軍政庁の会議室で新聞発表を受けている時にも、そこに新しい朝鮮が生まれつつあるみずみずしい胎動の中に居ながら、私は置かれている自分の影のうすさに気づいていた。それは、いかにも淋しい事であったが、最後に残っているたったひとつの私の仕事であり、何にもましてそれは私のよろこびであったのに、今日を限りに、私はもうその席に列する資格から離された。

私はこの四月、東京で二度の災火を受けていた。焦土の荒涼の中に萌え出るものの芽を見出して、おさなく私は涙を落していたのだが、再び私は秋風が今は流れているであろうその焦土に、落莫たる流離の思いとともに帰らねばならぬ。

今の私の心境は焦土の荒涼に似ている。私は萌えいずる光芽をもとめている。新しい光芽はきっと新しい日本にはっはっと萌えているにちがいない。それを求めて、またそれを培って、われわれの進むべき道を拓かねばならぬ。

帰去来―。

さようなら、京城の美しい街よ。その街の土にも光芽あれ。

私の言葉

大沼千代

信濃の草庵に待つ友から『朝鮮から何をまなんで来たか』と訊かれたら、私は無雑作に『キムチの味を覚えて来た』と答えるであろう。

短日月の潟留でそして仕事を待ち、生活、追われいた私には地方の古蹟を尋ねる余暇もなく、とぼしい文献の上でわずかにそれを癒やしいたといって好い。

それ故に寥々たる私の此の地での生活ではあったが、ただ一つキムチの味だけには忘れがたないものを残された。複雑多岐なその味に私が少しづつ馴染んで行ったことは、同時にこの朝鮮での生活に、私が次第に溶け込んで行ったのと同じ観を持つのである。そのような頃、私は夥しい黄塵や、大蒜の悪臭にいつか不感性になっていた。そうして埴土の香りは浪漫をつたえた。キムチの持つ強烈な味は、私のうちなる劇しいものに、快い鎮静剤の役割をも果たした。そしてその強烈さの故に私のうちに完全に烙印をのこしたのである。

一年余の歳月ではあったが、あり得ぬ歴史の怱忙にも遭遇した。観照の世界に踏み入ろうとしている私の心では、またこの一大事も或る意味では偉大といって好い程の訓戒を与えたのであった。

そこばくの私の余生において、おそらく私の心は、キムチの味になつかしさを抱き、一年余の此の地の生活に堪えがたい郷愁を持つのであろう。