National Anthem

"Aegukga" means "The Song of the Love for the Country". It is sung as the national anthem, though it has yet to be designated as such. In 1896, the Dongnip Sinmun(Independence News) published various versions of words for the national anthem. It is not clear, however, what tune they were sung to. Records show that a Western-style military band was formed during the time of the Dae Han Empire (1897-1910). "The Dae Han Empire Aegukga" was reportedly composed in 1902 and played at important national events.

The original words of the Aegukga seem to have been written around 1907 to bolster loyalty to the nation and foster a spirit of independence as the country faced threats of foreign aggression. Over the years, various leaders have revised the words many times, evolving into what is sung today.

While originally sung to the tune of the Scottish folk song, "Auld Lang Syne", Ahn, Eak-Tai(1905-1965), a Korean composer active overseas, felt that it was inappropriate to sing the Aegukga to the tune of another country's folk song. So, he composed a new tune in 1935, which the exiled provisional government adopted. While Koreans outside the country sang the anthem to the new tune, those at home continued to use Auld Lang Syne until after Korea was liberated in 1945.

Since establishing the Republic of Korea in 1948, Koreans have sung the Aegukga to the new music at all official events. It soon spread nationwide and was published in several textbooks. Now, Koreans at home and abroad recognize the Aegukga as Korea's national anthem. Since Koreans have sung the Aegukga for nearly a century, they remember the patriotism of their ancestors whenever they sing it, whether the occasion is happy or sad.