Hello? My name is Kim Gyeonghwa, and I'm here to be your guide on 'The Path of Independence and Quislingism.' 아, I understand my name might not ring a bell for most of you. I attended Paiwha Girls' School more than a century ago, and I'm proud of the meaningful role I played during that era. Now, since my old school, Paiwha Girls' School, is part of this course, I've been given the honor of being your guide.
I hold a deep affection for this neighborhood. It warms my heart to revisit the paths I once walked to school and the places where I used to spend time with my friends. But most of all, I'm overjoyed that my alma mater, nestled on the foot of Inwangsan Mountain, still stands warmly and proudly.
But it does bring about some mixed feelings when it comes to introducing the events that took place here and the people who lived in this neighborhood. Now, let's embark on the 'The Path of Independence and Quislingism.' The route I'll be guiding you through traces the footsteps of modern historical figures on the eastern side of Inwangsan Mountain.
First, let's introduce the neighborhood. The backdrop of this area is Inwangsan Mountain which surrounds the northwestern part of Hanyang, the capital of the Joseon Dynasty, which is present-day Seoul. Located to the west of Gyeongbokgung, the grandest royal palace of the Joseon dynasty, Inwangsan Mountain is a majestic rocky mountain, adorned with lush forests and clear streams. So, in the early days of the Joseon Dynasty, it was a place where royal family members, enjoying high social status but somewhat distant from political power, chose to reside and embraced the beauty of nature.
The atmosphere underwent a significant change from the late Joseon period to modern times. Those in power began to visit Inwangsan Mountain to appreciate its landscapes, and during the period when our sovereignty was threatened, pro-Japanese collaborators even built elaborate homes here. Furthermore, Its proximity to Hanyang, Gyeongseong, and later Seoul, which now lies at the center of the city, made it a place where modern scholars and artists contemplated and created their works while trying to capture the spirit of their times. Speaking of literature, it is still a bit challenging for me
Now, would you like to take a walk with me through the beauty of nature and the rich history along the slopes of Inwangsan Mountain? Our first stop is the Yun Dongju Literary Museum.