Philip Jaisohn

Seo Jae-pil 1947

Philip Jaisohn (Korean: 서재필; Hanja: 徐載弼; January 7, 1864 – January 5, 1951) was a Korean-American physician, political activist, and journalist. He was a significant figure in the Korean independence movement and is remembered for his contributions to both Korea and the United States.

Early Life and Education

Philip Jaisohn was born as Seo Jae-pil in Boseong County, Jeolla Province, Korea. He was the son of a prominent family and received a traditional Confucian education. In 1882, he passed the Gwageo (civil service examination) and began his career in government service.

Political Activism

Jaisohn became involved in the Gapsin Coup of 1884, a failed attempt to reform the Korean government and reduce the influence of the Joseon Dynasty. After the coup's failure, he fled to Japan and later to the United States.

Life in the United States

In the United States, Jaisohn adopted the name Philip Jaisohn and pursued higher education. He attended the Quaker-affiliated Swarthmore College and later graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a degree in medicine. He became the first Korean to receive an American medical degree.

Contributions to Korean Independence

Jaisohn returned to Korea in 1896 and founded the first Korean newspaper, The Independent (독립신문), which was published in both Korean and English. He also established the Independence Club (독립협회), which advocated for democratic reforms and modernization in Korea.

Later Life and Legacy

After the Japanese annexation of Korea in 1910, Jaisohn returned to the United States, where he continued to advocate for Korean independence. He worked as a physician and remained active in the Korean-American community. Jaisohn passed away on January 5, 1951, in Norristown, Pennsylvania.

Philip Jaisohn is remembered as a pioneer in the Korean independence movement and a bridge between Korean and American cultures. His efforts laid the groundwork for future generations of Korean activists and leaders.

See Also

• Korean independence movement
• Gapsin Coup
• The Independent (Korean newspaper)
• Independence Club
• Japanese annexation of Korea