People You Should Know
Kwon Ki-ok (1901–1988)
Kwon Ki-ok was born on January 11, 1901, in Pyongyang. At this time, Pyongyang was part of the Korean Empire known as “Joseon.” When Kwon was nine, the empire came to an end, and Korea came under Japanese colonial rule. During this challenging period, Kwon played a significant role. While in high school, she joined the March First Movement to protest Japanese control. This experience deeply influenced her life, and she continued to fight for Korean independence.
After graduating, Kwon moved to China, where she raised funds for the Korean independence movement by selling bonds. She then joined the Korean Independence Army and learned to fly airplanes at China’s military schools. This was a remarkable achievement for a woman at that time. In 1925, she became the first Korean woman to earn a pilot’s license. She would go on to play a key role in the Republic of Korea’s Air Force.
Today, Kwon Ki-ok is remembered as a pioneer for women in aviation. She is also seen as a symbol of courage in Korea’s struggle for independence. Her legacy continues to inspire future generations of aviators and activists.
Kim Dae-jung (1924–2003)
Kim Dae-jung was born on January 6, 1924, on Hauido island in Korea. He grew up under harsh Japanese rule, which spurred an interest in politics and democracy. After World War II, Korea was freed from Japan, and Kim began his political career. In 1961, he was elected to the National Assembly of Korea. However, his time in government was cut short when an army general named Park Chung-hee took power.
Over the following years, Kim would continue to fight for democracy and human rights even though it was dangerous. He was jailed, attacked, and threatened, but he never gave up. He quickly became the icon of the history of Korea’s democratization and people’s movement.
In 1997, Kim was elected the president of South Korea. During his presidency, he pushed for better relations with North Korea through the “Sunshine Policy.” This policy helped the two Koreas work together. Kim won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2000 for his work in peace and democracy. In South Korea, Kim Dae-jung is remembered as a brave leader who fought for a better future.