KB Financial Group’s ‘Re-writing the History of Korea’ Campaign Culminates in Moving Tribute to Independence Movement
A new song and video, born from a nationwide campaign spearheaded by KB Financial Group, commemorates the 107th anniversary of the March 1st Movement, a pivotal moment in Korea’s struggle for independence. The project, titled ‘다시 쓰는 대한이 살았다’ (Rewriting the History of Korea), saw over 2,100 submissions before awarding the top prize to singer-songwriter Han Seong-il for his lyrics, “Ordinary Days.” The resulting work, featuring a previously unreleased melody by composer Jeong Jae-il and vocals by singer Lee Juck, was officially released on March 1st, 2026.
The initiative, a collaboration between KB Financial Group, Sungshin Women’s University Professor Seo Kyung-deok, and singer-songwriter Lee Sang-soon, aimed to reignite public remembrance of the sacrifices made by Korean independence activists. Han Seong-il, who first gained recognition as contestant number 44 on the singing competition show “Sing Again” in 2025, transitioned to the role of lyricist for this deeply resonant project. The competition boasted an impressive 2135:1 ratio of applicants, highlighting the widespread enthusiasm for the campaign.
A Song Rooted in the Everyday
Han Seong-il’s lyrics, “Ordinary Days,” explore the idea that the seemingly mundane aspects of modern life are built upon the dreams and struggles of those who fought for Korea’s freedom. In an interview, Han explained his intention: “I wanted to convey the message that these ordinary days are not just ordinary, but a dream realized through the blood and sweat of independence activists, and I didn’t want people to forget that.”
The lyrics directly address the significance of the present moment, prompting reflection on the meaning of daily life. Lines like “Every moment of living is someone’s dream” encourage a renewed appreciation for the freedoms enjoyed today. The song culminates in a powerful affirmation: “Even if countless days come, one word ‘Korea lives’ will lift me up.” This phrase, “대한이 살았다” (Daehani Salatta – Korea Lives), serves as a central theme throughout the campaign and a potent reminder of the nation’s enduring spirit.
Han Seong-il shared his motivation for participating in the competition, stating, “I believe that music can be a channel for empathy that transcends time, and I thought I could express historical stories through music, which I love. I also believe that passing on this historical consciousness to the next generation is our duty.”
Building on a Previous Project
This year’s campaign is a continuation of the 2019 ‘대한이 살았다’ (Korea Lives) project, demonstrating a sustained commitment to preserving and promoting the legacy of the Korean independence movement. The 2019 project laid the groundwork for this expanded initiative, which sought to engage a wider audience through a national songwriting competition.
The winning lyrics were set to a previously unreleased melody composed by Jeong Jae-il, a highly respected figure in the Korean music industry known for his work on numerous film and television soundtracks. The addition of vocalist Lee Juck, a celebrated singer-songwriter in his own right, further elevated the project’s artistic merit. The final product is a moving tribute that seamlessly blends lyrical depth, musical artistry, and historical significance.
Kim Seong-il: A Historical Connection
Interestingly, the name Han Seong-il is also associated with a Korean independence activist born in 1897. According to Namuwiki, this Kim Seong-il was from Cheolsan-gun and a member of the Jinju Kim clan. While there is no direct confirmation of a familial connection between the two Han Seong-ils, the coincidence adds another layer of resonance to the project, linking the contemporary artist to the historical struggle he commemorates. This Kim Seong-il was awarded the National Medal of Korea for his contributions to the independence movement.
The campaign’s success underscores the enduring importance of remembering and honoring the sacrifices made by those who fought for Korea’s independence. By engaging the public through a creative and accessible medium like music, KB Financial Group, Professor Seo Kyung-deok, and Lee Sang-soon have ensured that the spirit of the March 1st Movement continues to inspire future generations.
The official release of “Ordinary Days” on March 1st, 2026, marks a significant moment in the ongoing effort to preserve and celebrate Korea’s rich history. The song serves as a powerful reminder that the freedoms enjoyed today are the result of the unwavering dedication and courage of those who came before.
As the nation reflects on the 107th anniversary of the March 1st Movement, “Ordinary Days” offers a poignant and timely message of remembrance, gratitude, and hope. The campaign’s success demonstrates the power of art to connect people to their past and inspire them to build a brighter future.
The next step in this ongoing initiative will be to assess the public response to “Ordinary Days” and explore opportunities to further disseminate the song’s message through educational programs and community events. Readers are encouraged to share their thoughts on the campaign and the song’s impact in the comments below.