Josh Mallicoat

Third Degree
Northeast Iowa
August 9, 2014

Po-Eun is the pseudonym of the 15th century poet and scientist named Chong Mong Chu.  He is revered as a great patriot, having penned the poem known to most Koreans: I would not serve a second master though I might be crucified a hundred times.  Chong Mong Chu lived during the Koryo Dynasty and became a trusted servant to the king, who had much confidence in Chong’s wide knowledge and good judgement.  Chong was involved in many national projects and also founded an institute devoted to the theories of Confucianism.  Yi Sung Gae, the first king of the Yi Dynasty, tried many times to persuade Chong to join him, but he refused by writing the poem:
Even if I may die, die a hundred times
Even if my skeleton may become dust and dirt
And whether my spirit may be there or not
My single-hearted loyalty to the lord will not change
This poem convinced Yi Sung Gae that Chong Mong Chu could not be swayed, and on April 4, 1392, Yi sent an assassin to Sonjuk Bridge to kill Chong with an iron hammer.  Sonjuk bridge is now seen as a symbol of loyalty to the Korean people.
When learning about Po-Eun, my thoughts went in two directions.  First, what characteristics did the king possess that would cause Po-Eun to be so loyal, and second, my knowledge of both Korean and Taekwondo history needs to improve significantly.
Chong Mong Chu’s loyalty to the king was probably based on characteristics that foster loyalty in today’s society: a strong belief that the person makes quality decisions, cares about the welfare of others, is reliable, dependable, trustworthy, and exhibits high moral standards.  These characteristics are extremely hard to find in a person, and you’re lucky if you get to know someone like this, outside of family, in your lifetime.  My Taekwondo instructor, Master Andrew Johnson, is such a man, and there is no one I respect more.
As for my historical knowledge, it is a personal goal to make Korean and Taekwondo history a significant part of my martial arts training.  In my 6 years of training, history has been my weakest link.  By improving my knowledge of Korean and Taekwondo history, I will become a more well-rounded martial artist and will be a better role model for other Taekwondo students.