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150th Anniversary of the Birth of Kim Koo br br To commemorate the 150th anniversary of the birth of Paikbum Kim Koo (August 29, 1876), a commemorative stamp is being issued. Throughout his life, Kim Koo devoted himself to Korea’s sovereign independence and peaceful reunification. He is remembered as one of the Republic of Korea’s greatest teachers and a national leader. Kim Koo led the Korean Provisional Goverment and stood at the forefront of the independence movement against Japanese colonial rule. After Korea’s liberation, he remained steadfast in his commitment to establishing a truly sovereign and independent nation. In “My Wish,” included in his autobiography Paikbum Ilji (Autobiography of Kim Koo), he expressed his aspiration for the Korean people to build a cultural nation that would contribute to the happiness of all humanity. br br The year 2026 is especially meaningful, as Kim Koo’s vision of promoting world peace through the power of culture has been recognized as a universal value for humanity and officially designated by UNESCO as a commemorative anniversary year. This designation officially recognizes that Kim Koo’s philosophy of “peace through culture” aligns with UNESCO’s core ideals of promoting peace and cultural diversity. It will also serve as a meaningful opportunity to share and further spread his spirit throughout the world. br br The commemorative stamp is based on a photograph of Kim Koo taken in Chongqing, China, in 1942. Against a silver background, passages from Paikbum Ilji are arranged to form his strong silhouette. This commemorative stamp embodies Kim Koo’s unwavering patriotism and steadfast resolve, qualities that guided the Korean people through one of the most turbulent periods in modern Korean history. It is hoped that the commemorative stamp will provide an opportunity to reflect on Kim Koo’s life and spirit. br br