Here stands the former Chosun Jungang Ilbo building. It's currently utilized as office space for financial institutions, so we'll observe it from the outside. Though the sidewalk isn't too roomy, I hope you can find a comfortable spot to listen to my explanation.

Indeed, this building has undergone several transformations. Initially built in 1926, it operated as the Chosun Ilbo headquarters. After the March First Independence Movement, in 1920, Japan initiated 'Cultural Governance' over Korea. As part of this Cultural Governance, they permitted the establishment of Korean-run newspapers. Needing permission to start a newspaper was definitely a harsh era.

During that period, the Chosun Ilbo, born from this circumstance, made a significant impact by appointing nationalist movement leaders as part of their executive team. Respected figures like Lee Sangjae, Shin Seokwoo, and Ahn Jaehong held prominent roles within the management, and I deeply admire their contributions.

In 1924, when Chosun Ilbo faced financial difficulties after being suspended, Shin Seokwoo showed innovative approaches by acquiring newspapers and inviting Lee Sangjae as the president. In 1927, when the Left-Right Coalition Committee established the United Front for Independence, the Chosun Ilbo played a pivotal role, akin to the headquarters of the United Front for Independence.

When establishing the Provisional Government of the Republic of Korea, Shin Seokwoo played a significant role in deciding the government's name as ‘the Republic of Korea.’ During discussions among independence activists about the country's name, Shin Seokwoo advocated for 'Korea,' stating, 'The country that was taken away is Korea, so let's go to Korea to find it.'
The Chosun Ilbo occupied this building for six years, and later, the Chosun Jungang Ilbo joined in. The Chosun Jungang Ilbo carries on the legacy of the Jungoe Ilbo and the Jungang Ilbo. In 1933, Yeo Woonhyung took over as president and appended 'Chosun' to the newspaper's name, leading to its transformation into the Chosun Jungang Ilbo.

When delving into 'The Path of Revolution,' newspaper discussions might seem a bit off-topic. However, these newspapers played a revolutionary role at that time. For instance, they published a picture from the Berlin Olympics marathon awards ceremony where they deliberately removed the Japanese flag from Sohn Kee-chung's chest.

Indeed, the story grows more touching with detail. In 1935, during Japan's Olympic marathon selection race, Sohn Kee-chung set a world record of 2 hours and 26 minutes, securing a spot alongside Nam Seungnyong. Then, in 1936, at the Berlin Olympics marathon, he amazed everyone by winning in 2 hours and 29 minutes.

Sohn Kee-chung's victory stirred a profound sense of pride within our people, awakening a deep-seated sentiment. Additionally, Sohn Kee-chung proudly showcased his Korean identity by confidently declaring his nationality as 'Korea' and signing his name in Hangul as 'Sohn Kee-chung.' It's genuinely touching, isn't it?
Sohn Kee-chung's achievements were undoubtedly remarkable, but the presence of the Japanese flag on his uniform was regrettable. Yet, the Chosun Jungang Ilbo and Dong-a Ilbo reported the news by editing out the flag from the picture. This decision led to trouble for the Dong-a Ilbo, facing suspension, while the Chosun Jungang Ilbo voluntarily suspended publication to evade similar consequences.

During that time, due to financial constraints, the Chosun Jungang Ilbo ceased publication because of this coverage, eventually fading into history. Boldly removing the Japanese flag from the picture despite anticipating the consequences was one of the revolutionary events accomplished by our press.

Now let's head over to the Wujung Chongguk, our next stop. Just cross the road here and head north. It's right next to Jogyesa Temple, so it should be easy to find.