A forgotten link to Korea’s literary pioneers

It is a welcome and meaningful recognition that the late poet Yun Dong-ju (1917-1945) was posthumously awarded an honorary doctorate in culture by Doshisha University in Kyoto, Japan. This tribute, marking the 80th anniversary of his passing, serves as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by Korean intellectuals under Japan’s colonial regime.

One of Korea’s most revered poets, Yun pursued his studies at Doshisha University but was arrested by Japanese authorities and imprisoned in Fukuoka, where he died in February 1945 — just six months before Korea’s liberation. His poetic legacy, rich with themes of longing, solitude and resistance, continues to resonate with many. His lyric poem "Counting Stars at Night" evokes a profound sense of reflection and yearning, unfolding like a tender conversation with a mother. The poem poignantly captures the emotions of his generation, expressing a deep longing for lost memories and distant hopes. The stars, steadfast in the dark night, serve as enduring symbols of hope amid oppressive realities.

Under the harsh colonial regime, Yun lamented the loss of ordinary life and dreamed of a peaceful world — represented by the stars — just beyond reach.

Doshisha University, a mission school with a rich history, has also been a silent witness to the literary journeys of several other Korean writers, including Jeong Ji-yong and Oh Sang-soon.

Jeong, a pioneer of Korean modernist poetry, studied English literature at Doshisha University. His fate remains shrouded in mystery; he is believed to have been kidnapped by North Korean agents during the Korean War in 1950 and subsequently fell into obscurity. His poem "Apcheon" reflects his deep nostalgia for Korea, drawing parallels between his homeland and Kyoto’s Kamo River.

Despite being a leading figure in modern Korean poetry, his works, including the renowned poem "Nostalgia," were banned from public mention, along with those of other abducted writers. His literary legacy was finally restored in 1988, bringing "Nostalgia" back into the spotlight, even as the lyrics of a popular song.

Jeong shared a great deal of literary knowledge with Yun while the latter was studying at Doshisha University. Yun’s anthology of handwritten poetry manuscripts was published posthumously in 1948 under the title "The Heavens, the Wind, the Stars and Poetry," with a preface written by Jeong.

Oh, renowned for his literary works "A Night of Asia" and "A Monologue of the Spirit of Nihilism," evokes a sense of introspective despair and philosophical contemplation. He studied religious philosophy at Doshisha from 1912 to 1917 and later taught at Buddhist schools in Korea before renouncing monastic life.

Doshisha University is perhaps the only institution outside Korea with two impressive poetry monuments dedicated to Korean writers — Yun and Jeong. Both monuments stand prominently near a small chapel on the university's campus, symbolizing their longing for home.

Despite this rich history, Doshisha remains overlooked by many Korean visitors to Kyoto, who often focus on temples, the campus and gardens without recognizing its profound literary connections to Korea. Honoring figures like Yun, Jeong and Oh can serve as a bridge between Korea and Japan, fostering cultural appreciation and raising historical awareness.

By shedding light on this forgotten history, we ensure that future generations recognize Doshisha University’s role in shaping Korea’s literary heritage. Korean travelers to Kyoto should look beyond the well-trodden paths and seek out the echoes of poets who once walked, studied and dreamed of a free Korea within the university's halls.

The voices of these writers, etched in stone and paper, remind us that literature transcends borders and eras. Their longing for justice, dignity and home continues to resonate, urging us to acknowledge their legacy.

Choe Chong-dae (choecd@naver.com) is a guest columnist of The Korea Times. He is president of Dae-kwang International Co. and founding director of the Korean-Swedish Association.