Short History of Aegukga

Korea's national anthem is "Aegukga," which means "the song of the love for the country." There was no official national anthem, but the words of Aegukga were sung to the tune of the Scottish folk song Ault Lang Syne after Japan colonized Korea in 1910. Composer Ahn Eak-tai wrote a new melody for the lyrics in 1936. But Ahn's new composition was not considered the official national anthem tune before 1948. Instead, people continued to sing the old "Aegukga" to the Auld Lang Syne.

"Aegukga" was officially designated Korea's national anthem when the Korean government was founded in 1948 and the name "Aegukga," which used to be a blanket term for all patriotic songs, remained the official title for the national anthem. The lyrics were kept as they were. Although the lyricist of Aegukga still unknown, some speculate it to be Yun Chi ho, Ahn Chang ho, or Min Yeong hwan.

English translation of Aegukga (1st verse):

"Until that day when Mt. Baekdu's worn away and the East sea's waters run dry,

God (sky) protect and preserve out country!

Roses of Sharon and Three thousand Li of splendid rivers and mountains full;

Great Korean people, To the Great Korean way stay always true!"

They lyrics are solemn in expression, describing the dark reality of Japanese colonial rule, and Korean's work to overcome the sorrow of losing their country. But instead of wallowing in the sadness, the lyrics speak of Korea's beauty and the Korean peopel's hope of gaining independence from Japan and bringing prosperity.

Source:

"Aegukga." EconomicExpert.com. Web. 5 Dec. 2011. <http://www.economicexpert.com/a/Aegukga.htm>.

"Aegukga-Korean National Anthem - YouTube." YouTube. Web. 5 Dec. 2011. <http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y_b8VRACjzU>.