Overview
Aegukga (애국가, literally "Patriotic Song") is the national anthem of South Korea. Composed by Ahn Eak-tai in 1935, it has been used as the official national anthem since the establishment of the Republic of Korea government in 1948. Although never formally designated by law as the national anthem, it has been customarily used as such and has become the symbol of South Korea.
History
Early National Anthems (1896-1902)
The history of Aegukga dates back to the late 19th century. In 1896, songs titled "Aegukga" (patriotic songs) began appearing in the Dongnip Sinmun (The Independent) newspaper. However, these early versions had different lyrics and melodies from the current anthem.
Auld Lang Syne Version (1902-1948)
From around 1902, the current lyrics were sung to the melody of the Scottish folk song "Auld Lang Syne." This melody was used for decades, including during the March 1st Movement of 1919.
Adoption by the Provisional Government
When the Provisional Government of the Republic of Korea was established in 1919, the Auld Lang Syne version was officially used, led by Ahn Chang-ho. The government later officially adopted Ahn Eak-tais new composition in 1940.
Ahn Eak-tais Composition (1935)
Composer Ahn Eak-tai felt it was regrettable that the national anthem was sung to a Scottish folk tune. After three years of dedicated work, he completed the new composition in G major in November 1935. It premiered on December 28, 1935, at a Korean church in Chicago, conducted by Ahn himself.
Official Adoption (1940)
In September 1940, the Korean National Association in America requested the Provisional Government to approve the new composition. On December 20, 1940, the State Council approved its use, making it the official national anthem.
Lyrics
| Verse | Korean | English Translation |
|---|---|---|
| Verse 1 | 동해물과 백두산이 마르고 닳도록 하느님이 보우하사 우리나라 만세 | Until the East Sea waters dry and Mt. Baekdu wears away God protect and preserve our nation, long live our country |
| Chorus | 무궁화 삼천리 화려강산 대한사람 대한으로 길이 보전하세 | Rose of Sharon, three thousand ri of splendid rivers and mountains Great Korean people, may we preserve our great nation forever |
Lyricist Controversy
The authorship of the lyrics remains disputed. Various theories attribute them to Yun Chi-ho, Ahn Chang-ho, or Min Yeong-hwan, but none has been officially confirmed. Academic consensus leans toward Yun Chi-ho as the most likely author.
Copyright
On March 16, 2005, Ahn Eak-tais descendants donated the copyright to the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, resolving the long-standing copyright issue. The anthem is now freely available for all Korean citizens to use.
Korea Fantasia
In 1938, Ahn Eak-tai expanded Aegukga into "Korea Fantasia" (Symphony Fantasie No.1 Korea). This four-movement orchestral work features Aegukga as the theme of the final movement. It premiered in Dublin, Ireland, to great acclaim.