These are old Korean stamps. Customer: "Um, how old are they, exactly?" Shopkeeper: "Well, they're from after Korean Stamp 1 that we put up for sale, but much, much later than Korean Stamp 2." Customer: "Huh?! Okay, never mind. By the way, why do you have two of the Ahn Changho stamps?" Shopkeeper: "Yes. The design of the Ahn Changho stamps issued around 1980 features Ahn Changho (안창호, November 9, 1878 – March 10, 1938), also known by his pen name "Dosan" (도산). He was an important figure in Korean history, a famous independence activist, educator, and politician. He dedicated himself to promoting Korea's independence movement and played a significant role during the anti-Japanese period. ### Biography and Contributions 1. **Early Life**: Ahn Changho was born in Pyeongannam-do, Joseon (present-day South Pyeongan Province, North Korea). From a young age, he displayed a strong sense of national consciousness and patriotism. 2. **Study Abroad and Enlightenment**: He went to the United States to study in 1902 and was deeply influenced by Western educational thought, especially the emphasis on democracy and education. After returning to Korea, he founded several schools and devoted himself to educational reform, cultivating a group of young people with modern awareness. 3. **Independence Movement**: Ahn Changho was one of the founding members of the Provisional Government of the Republic of Korea and served in important positions in the government. He not only fought against the Japanese at home but also actively sought international support in the United States and other places. 4. **Thought and Legacy**: Ahn Changho advocated the ideas of "self-improvement" and "seeking truth from facts." He believed that education and social reform were the foundation for achieving national independence and development. He founded many organizations, including the "New Military Academy" and the "Heukryonggang Defense Corps," which made important contributions to Korea's independence and modernization. 5. **Death and Commemoration**: Ahn Changho died of illness in 1938. His will and ideas continue to be passed down in Korea and have become an important symbol of the Korean national spirit. Several places in Korea are named after him to commemorate his contributions and spirit. ### Influence and Commemoration Ahn Changho is widely respected by the Korean people and is considered one of the founders of modern Korea. His thoughts and actions profoundly influenced Korea's independence movement and modernization process. The Korean government and the public hold commemorative events every year to remember this great patriot. Ahn Changho not only holds an important position in Korean history but also has a profound influence on the modern history of East Asia. His patriotic spirit and reformist ideas have inspired generations to strive for the independence and development of their country." Customer: "CHATgpt?! And it's in Chinese!" box Korean Stamp 3