Record of Our Survival: An Unfinished Conversation with My Mother

Born in Korea in 1916, and Manchuria in 1940, a mother and son lived through some of the most turbulent events of the twentieth century. Together, they experienced the Japanese colonial period, the Pacific War, and the Korean War, enduring hardship until the Republic of Korea emerged as a modern nation.

Despite the global spread of liberal democracy, wars driven by political, economic, and religious ambitions continue to devastate lives, leaving countless people in poverty and suffering from disease. Korea, once one of the poorest countries in the world due to colonial rule and civil conflict, transformed itself through the efforts of visionary leaders, resilient businesspeople, and the unwavering spirit of its people. Today, it stands as an economic powerhouse among the top ten in the world.

This book shares the powerful story of Korea's rise, offering a message of hope to those still facing the ravages of war and poverty, showing that through determination and unity, any hardship can be overcome.