Discovering Autumn in Ham-an: A Journey to the Birthplace of Jo Hong-je
By the 14th SNS Reporter Choi Hong-dae
In this era where we can enjoy a variety of content, where would be a good place to visit if you want to spend time surrounded by the autumn foliage? For those who wish to immerse themselves in the vibrant colors of fall, I recommend taking a trip to Ham-an. Walking through a space once inhabited by someone and reflecting on the forest created by the collective effort of people is a great way to spend this season. I found a village in Ham-an that is perfect for autumn contemplation in November. This village is also the birthplace of Jo Hong-je, the former chairman of the Hyosung Group.
The tranquil village is located near the Namgang River, a tributary of the Nakdong River, and is surrounded by Baekisan and Sukjebong mountains. It has been known since ancient times as a pleasant place to live.
Land has always been an asset associated with wealth. Jo Hong-je was born as the son of a large landowner in the Ham-an area. He studied Confucianism from a young age, moved to Seoul at 16 to learn modern literature, and attended Jungang High School. He was imprisoned as a key figure in the June 10th Uprising but later studied at Tokyo University with family support.
On the day I visited, the house was not open, but the birthplace of Jo Hong-je is quite large. Several buildings, including the main house, guesthouse, and annex, have survived to this day. After returning from Japan, Jo Hong-je was elected as the head of the Gunbuk Credit Union in 1940 and later co-founded Samsung C&T with Lee Byung-chul, the founder of Samsung Group, in 1948. He invested significantly during this period, laying the foundation for what is now Cheil Industries.
Even today, the Jo family in Ham-an is well-known. They have produced figures such as Jo Ryeo, a loyalist during the Six Loyalists period, and Jo Jong-do, a commander during the Imjin War. Jo Hong-je diversified investments, establishing Hyosung Corporation in 1962, which led to the creation of the Hyosung Group and Hankook Tire Group.
Although I couldn't enter the house on that day due to the absence of descendants, encountering the beautiful and restrained architecture of the Hanok would be a delightful experience if given the opportunity.
Autumn seems to be passing by more quickly than before. From the third week of November, it is expected to get quite cold, and it might be time to preserve the memories of this year's autumn days.
There are various sights and stories around Jo Hong-je's birthplace. The tourism guide introducing Ham-an features the top nine attractions and twelve sights to explore throughout the year.
What does it mean to possess wealth? Everyone has things they want to do and achieve.
Traveling to Ham-an, I found myself wanting to listen to classic romantic pieces that embody the essence of autumn. Is there any melody more beautiful than music that captures elegance and rich emotions within restraint?
Not far from Jo Hong-je's birthplace is a small, charming garden filled with ancient trees. Although I don't know its name, it feels like a protective grove for the village.
Some paths are embraced by people, and those who walk along them sometimes find solace. As I walk, I reflect on a person's thoughts and their traces, contemplating nature, history, and the tranquility of November's autumn.
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