What About KOREA?

Homer B. Hulbert: Champion of Korean Independence, Justice, and Humanity

$48.50

What About KOREA? The Untold Story of Homer B. Hulbert – Korea’s Forgotten Hero After more than three years of meticulous work, What About KOREA? is finally here—a groundbreaking biography that brings to life the remarkable story of Homer B. Hulbert, a little-known yet pivotal figure in Korea’s modern history. Written by DongJin Kim, Chairman of The Hulbert Memorial Society, this deeply researched book uncovers the legacy of a man who dedicated his life to Korea’s sovereignty, education, and cultural identity. Arriving in Korea in 1886 as a teacher at the Royal College (Yukyeonggongwon), Hulbert quickly rose to prominence as a passionate advocate for Korean independence and modern education. He authored Korea’s first modern textbook, promoted the use of Hangeul, and became a fierce opponent of Japanese imperialism. His unwavering support for Korean sovereignty culminated in his secret mission to Washington in 1905 and his bold appeal to the U.S. Senate in 1919—titled “What About Korea?”—following the March First Movement. Though exiled by Japan in 1907, Hulbert never ceased advocating for Korea on the world stage. Upon his return in 1949, he passed away in Seoul and was laid to rest in Yanghwajin, honoring his wish: “I would rather be buried in Korea than in Westminster Abbey.” His extraordinary life earned him Korea’s highest honors decades later, yet his name remains largely unknown to the public—until now. Perfect for readers interested in Korean modern history, international relations, and the often-overlooked role of foreigners in Asia’s modernization, What About Korea? is both a tribute and a revelation. Through vivid storytelling and rigorous scholarship, this book reclaims Hulbert’s rightful place in history and offers an inspiring narrative of courage, conviction, and cross-cultural friendship. Rediscover a forgotten hero. Reimagine the history you thought you knew.

Author(s)

DongJin Kim

Chairman of The Hulbert Memorial Society
Former Managing Director at JPMorgan Chase

In 1999, during his tenure as Managing Director and Country Manager of Chase Manhattan Bank, Korea—a predecessor of JPMorgan Chase—DongJin Kim, along with esteemed colleagues, founded The Hulbert Memorial Society. Under his visionary leadership, the Society has spearheaded numerous initiatives to preserve and promote Homer B. Hulbert’s legacy. Kim’s dedication was instrumental in securing Hulbert’s posthumous honors, including the Order of Merit for Culture and Art-Gold from the Korean government. A prolific author, Kim is celebrated for his scholarly contributions on Hulbert. His notable works include: 파란눈의 한국혼 헐버트 (Homer B. Hulbert: A Korean Soul with Blue Eyes, 2010), the first comprehensive biography of Hulbert in Korean. 헐버트 조선의 혼을 깨우다 (Homer B. Hulbert Awakens the Soul of Joseon, 2016), a translation of Hulbert’s fifty-seven articles. 헐버트의 꿈 조선은 피어나리! (Homer B. Hulbert: Joseon Must Blossom!, 2019), an expanded biography of Hulbert. 말 위에서 본 조선 (Korea As Seen From The Saddle, 2021), a translation of Hulbert’s 1890 travelogue to Pyongyang.

463 pp.
LC# 2024952246
Hardcover 15.2 x 22.5 cm
ISBN-13: 9781565915282
ISBN-10: 1565915283