Additional Chapter 9: The Devotion of Korean Independence Fighters
The stories of Korean independence fighters were also shed new light.
Kim Gu, Ahn Jung-geun, Yu Gwan-sun, Yun Bong-gil... Their sacrifices went beyond mere patriotism.
"They sought to settle their karma," Minjun wrote. "They sought to end the karma that began with violence with righteous resistance."
The story of Master Samyeongdang was particularly moving. Despite his Buddhist precepts prohibiting killing, he raised a Buddhist army during the Imjin War.
"I know I will go to hell," Samyeongdang was recorded to have said. "But to save my people, I'd gladly go to hell."
"This is true mercy," Minjun wrote. "The willingness to sacrifice one's own soul to save others."
General Kim Jwajin's Battle of Cheongsanri was also re-evaluated. It wasn't simply a military victory, but a spiritual victory for the Korean people.
"We were oppressed, but our spirit was not broken."
Additional Chapter 10: Why Was This Suffering Necessary?
At a university lecture, a student asked Minjun. This happened a year before his death.
"Professor, I don't understand. Even if the Korean people committed wrongdoings during the Gojoseon period, why should their descendants suffer for thousands of years? Is that fair?"
Minjun thought for a moment and then answered,
"It's not fair. Karma isn't about fairness. It's about cause and effect." "But that suffering had meaning. The Korean people learned something from that suffering: the pain of the weak, the resentment of the oppressed."
"That's why we can now understand the suffering of other countries. Because we were victims of imperialism, we will never become an imperialist nation."
"Japan became a powerful nation, but became arrogant. China was the same. But Korea, because it suffered, learned humility."
"This is the paradox of karma. Sometimes, pain is the greatest teacher."
The lecture hall was silent. Many students were shedding tears.
Additional Chapter 11: The Cultural Heritage of Baedal Kingdom and Gojoseon
As research progressed, the cultural heritage of Baedal Kingdom and Gojoseon also revealed the influence they had on world civilization.
Similarities between Sumerian cuneiform and Hangul were discovered. Both used a method of combining consonants and vowels.
"It is true that Hangul was created by King Sejong the Great," one linguist explained. "However, its principles may have been inspired by much older Eastern writing systems." Links between Tibetan Buddhism and Korean shamanism were also discovered. Both revered mountains, offered sacrifices to heaven, and shared the idea of the Three Gods (三神).
"The influence of Baedal reached even Tibet," religious scholars said.
The global influence of Hongik Ingan (a philosophy of humanism) was also reassessed. The idea of "benefiting all humanity" echoed Confucianism's benevolence (仁), Buddhism's compassion, and Christianity's love.
"This is a universal truth," philosophers said. "Regardless of East or West, humanity has always pursued this truth."
Additional Chapter 12: Revision of History Textbooks
The Northeast Asian United Government created a new history textbook, jointly authored by historians from South Korea, China, Japan, and North Korea. The textbook included the following:
The history of Hwan-guk and Baedal-guk (legends and archaeological evidence) The war with Atlantis (Min-jun's testimony and excavation evidence) The karma and retribution of each nation Past wrongs and the process of reconciliation Lessons for the future
"This textbook takes no sides," the authors wrote in the preface. "We record the truth as it is. We reject the dichotomy of heroes and villains. We are all part of a complex history."
The final chapter of the textbook concluded with Min-jun's story.
"One man's courageous confession transformed all of Northeast Asia. This is proof that the power of an individual can change history. You too can become the protagonist of history."
The textbook was used in schools across Northeast Asia. Students from South Korea, China, Japan, and North Korea learned the same history.
Additional Chapter 13: Expansion of Cultural Exchange
Along with historical reconciliation, cultural exchange also exploded.
K-pop was already global, but collaborations with artists from China and Japan have become more active. The "Northeast Asia United Orchestra" was formed and toured the world.
Co-produced films and dramas were produced by Korea, China, and Japan. Historical dramas, in particular, were extremely popular. Works that addressed the pain of each nation were produced.
"The Story of the Comfort Women" was directed by a Japanese director and starred a Korean actor. The film won numerous awards worldwide.
"Tears of Nanjing" was a documentary co-produced by China and Japan. It objectively portrayed the truth of the Nanjing Massacre.
"The Light of the Three Kingdoms" was a historical drama that covered the ancient history of Korea, China, and Japan. It showed how the Hwan-guk, Baedal, and Gojoseon kingdoms, as well as the ancient dynasties of China and Japan, interacted.
Through these works, people gained a deeper understanding of each other's history and culture.
"Remember the past, but let us create the future together." This was the motto of cultural exchange.
Additional Chapter 14: Min-jun's Last Lecture
A week before Min-jun passed away, he gave his last public lecture. The Seoul National University auditorium was filled with thousands of people. Minjun came onto the stage in a wheelchair. His body was weak, but his eyes still shone brightly.
"I think today will be my last lecture," he began. "So, I want to convey the most important message."
"Karma is not destiny. Karma is opportunity."
"I committed a terrible sin ten thousand years ago. That karma has caused me and my descendants to suffer for a long time. But that pain has brought me to this point."
"If I hadn't suffered, I wouldn't have changed. Pain awakened me, made me repent, and changed me."
"The same goes for you. All the pain, all the trials you face, they are not curses. They are opportunities to become better people."
Minjun paused and continued.
"Forgive those who hurt you. Forgiveness isn't for them. Forgiveness is for yourself. When you forgive, you are free."
"And be forgiven. For the wrongs you've committed. Forgiving yourself is the hardest part. But it's the most important." "Finally, love. Unconditionally, without boundaries. Only love can heal this world."
Minjun's voice trembled, but held strength.
"I'm leaving soon. But I'm not afraid. I've done my part. Now it's your turn."
"Please protect this peace. And expand it further. Beyond Northeast Asia, to the entire world."
"Thank you. I love you all."
When Minjun finished speaking, the auditorium fell silent. Then someone stood and began to applaud. Soon, everyone stood and applauded.
The applause continued for ten minutes. Many were crying.
That was Minjun's last public appearance.
Additional Chapter 15: Minjun's Will
Minjun wrote his will the night before he died. "To my beloved family,
and to all who read this:
I am leaving now. But please do not be sad. I was happy. Thanks to you.
Suyeon, you were the light of my life. Without you, I would not have been able to walk this path. Thank you and I love you.
Reconciliation and peace, my proud children. Just like your names, you will bring reconciliation and peace to this world. Dad always cheers you on.
To my grandchildren. I wonder what kind of people you will become when you grow up. But whatever you become, I hope you live well.
Mother. Mom, thank you for being my mother in this life. Your love saved me. I will see you soon.
And to everyone in the world:
I hope my story brings you a little comfort. No matter how great your sins, no matter how much pain you have suffered, change is possible. Healing is possible.
Forgive. Love. Live in peace.
I will stay by your side as the wind. When the warm wind blows, think of it as me.
Goodbye. No, don't say goodbye. Keep moving forward. Make a better world. Go.
With love, Minjun."
Epilogue: The Future
Additional Chapter 16: The World 100 Years Later
One hundred years have passed since Minjun's death. The world has changed dramatically.
The Northeast Asian Union has now expanded into the "East Asian Union." Southeast Asian countries have joined, and even India and Pakistan are participating as observers.
Discussions about a world federal government began in earnest. The idea was to unite the European Union, the African Union, the American Union, and the East Asian Union.
"Minjun's dream is coming true," people said.
Minjun's great-great-granddaughter, Hwahae (who inherited the same name), chaired the World Federal Government Promotion Committee. She proudly carried on her great-grandfather's legacy.
"We will complete what my great-grandfather started," she said in her speech.
War had virtually disappeared. Thirty years had passed since the last armed conflict on Earth. Of course, conflicts still existed, but they were now resolved through dialogue and negotiation.
A peace movement called "Minjun's Wind" spread around the world. Whenever someone faced conflict, people said, "Remember Minjun's Wind. Let's forgive, love, and live in peace."
Over 100 Atlantis Memorials have now been built around the world. There, people learned the lessons of the past and realized the importance of peace.
One day, Hwahae visited Mount Baekdu. Standing before the scattered ashes of her great-grandfather, she meditated.
A warm breeze blew. Within the wind, she heard a voice.
"You're doing well, child. Keep going."
It was her great-grandfather's voice. Hwahae smiled through tears.
Additional Chapter 17: Humanity Heading into Space
150 years later, humanity finally began to leave the solar system.
More than a million people were already living on Mars. An exploration base was also established on Jupiter's moon Europa.
And humanity headed even further afield. A spaceship was launched bound for Alpha Centauri, the nearest star system.
But the most astonishing discovery occurred at the outskirts of the solar system.
A spacecraft exploring the planet Sedna picked up a strange signal. It was clearly an artificial signal.
"This is... a trace of an alien civilization!" The scientists were excited.
Upon closer inspection, a surprising discovery was made. A massive structure was floating near Sedna. It seemed like a space station, but it looked very ancient.
The exploration team approached the structure and discovered ancient records within. And when they deciphered them...
"This is... Hwan-guk!" one researcher exclaimed.
The writing on the stone tablet was identical to that found in Lake Baikal. And the content was shocking.
"We are Hwan-guk. We came from this solar system, then left in search of a better planet. But some of us remained on Earth. They will establish a new civilization."
"Someday, Earth's descendants will emerge into space. They will discover this. Until we meet again."
Hwan-guk was not a legend. They really existed, and they still exist somewhere.
Additional Chapter 18: Reunion with Hwan-guk
200 years later, humanity finally made contact with the descendants of Hwan-guk.
They lived in a planetary system near the Andromeda Galaxy. Humanity's faster-than-light spaceship had reached them.
Their first encounter was moving.
"Our long-lost brothers have returned," said the representative of Hwan-guk. They still looked human, but they had evolved significantly. "We come from Earth," the representative of humanity said. "We are your descendants."
"We know. We have been watching."
The representative of Hwan-guk explained. "We left Earth long ago, but we have not forgotten it. We have visited Earth from time to time to observe our descendants."
"The changes over the past 300 years have been particularly remarkable. You have finally achieved peace."
"It was thanks to the courage of one man," the representative of humanity said. "A man named Min-jun..."
"We know." The representative of Hwan-guk smiled. "Min-jun. He was the reincarnation of Geobal-hwan. We are proud of him."
Hwan-guk taught humanity much: gravity control technology, methods for expanding consciousness, and, above all, how to live in peace.
"We have lived without war for tens of thousands of years," the elder of Hwan-guk said. "You can do the same."
Additional Chapter 19: The Resurrection of Atlantis
Meanwhile, a surprising discovery was made within the solar system. During the terraforming of Venus, scientists discovered traces of an ancient city beneath its surface.
"This is... a concentric ring structure!" exclaimed an archaeologist.
Further investigation revealed an incredible truth. Venus also had a civilization similar to Atlantis. And they interacted with Atlantis on Earth.
"Atlantis wasn't just a civilization on Earth," the research team leader announced. "They were a civilization spanning the entire solar system."
Atlantis on Venus perished before Atlantis on Earth, due to environmental changes. Some fled to Earth, where they contributed to the Egyptian civilization.
"So that's why the Egyptian pyramids were built with such advanced technology," the historians realized.
Evidence was also found that descendants of Atlantis existed elsewhere in the universe. They left the solar system for other star systems, where they founded new civilizations.
Additional Chapter 20: Conversation
250 years later, a historic moment arrived.
The Galactic Council was convened. There were representatives from humanity, the descendants of Hwan-guk, the descendants of Atlantis, and dozens of other extraterrestrial civilizations.
The representative from Earth was Min-jun's fifth-generation descendant. His name was also Min-jun.
"Today, we achieve a historic reconciliation," he said in his speech. "Ten thousand years ago, Hwan-guk and Atlantis fought a war. The wounds of that war have long lingered."
"But today, we completely heal those wounds."
The representative from Hwan-guk stepped forward. "We acknowledge our past wrongdoings. Our ancestors judged Atlantis harshly."
The representative from Atlantis also stepped forward. "We also acknowledge our own wrongdoings. We were arrogant and oppressed other civilizations."
Then the two representatives joined hands.
At that moment, something astonishing happened. The entire conference room was filled with light. And within that light, countless souls emerged.
They were the souls of those who died in the war ten thousand years ago. The warriors of Hwan-guk, the citizens of Atlantis, and...
"Min-jun..." someone murmured.
The first Min-jun's soul appeared. He was made of light, and he wore a peaceful smile.
"Thank you, everyone," Min-jun's soul said. "My karma has finally been cleared. Now all souls are free."
The souls began to disappear into the light, one by one. They had achieved complete liberation.
Finally, before Min-jun's soul vanished, he said,
"Continue to love. Continue to forgive. Continue to live in peace."
And he too disappeared into the light.
Everyone remaining in the conference room shed tears. They were not tears of sorrow, but tears of joy.
Ten thousand years of karma had finally been cleared.
Final Epilogue: A New Beginning
500 years later.
Humanity was now part of the Galactic Federation, a vast community where hundreds of civilizations coexisted peacefully.
Earth was known as the "Planet of Peace." Once filled with war and conflict, it has now become the most peaceful place in the universe.
"Earth is special," said an ambassador from an alien civilization. "They have achieved peace on their own. That is a very rare occurrence."
Every night, beautiful auroras appeared in Earth's skies. Scientists explained them as a result of fluctuations in the Earth's magnetic field, but people believed otherwise.
"That's Minjun and other spirits watching over us," people said.
Indeed, four bright lights were occasionally seen within the aurora. People called them Hwanin, Geobalhwan, Dangun Wanggeom, and Minjun.
One quiet night, a child looked up at the sky and asked,
"Mom, what are those lights?"
"They are our guardians who protect us," the mother answered.
"Were they bad people or good people?"
The mother thought for a moment and then answered,
"Both. They made mistakes, but they corrected them. And now they are light."
"Can I be light too?" "Of course. If you love, forgive, and live in peace."
The child looked up at the sky and smiled. And the lights in the sky seemed to shine brighter.
Epilogue of the Epilogue: To You
To you who are reading this story:
This is not just a novel. This is the story of all of us.
We all have a past. Perhaps mistakes made in a past life, perhaps in this one.
But we can change, just like Minjun did.
Forgive those who have hurt you. And above all, yourself.
Love. Unconditionally, without boundaries.
Live in peace. Your peace will become the peace of the world.
You too can be the wind. The wind that travels everywhere, blessing all life.
Hongik Ingan (弘益人間). Benefit humanity widely.
This is the message Minjun left behind. This is the ideology Geobalhwan left behind. This is the path humanity must take.
Your story begins now. Complete (Complete)
___________________________
Author's Note
This story is about individual karma, national karma, and ultimately, the salvation of all humanity.
It depicts the process by which a single man, Minjun, sparks historical reconciliation in Northeast Asia, leading to world peace and, ultimately, universal reconciliation.
By connecting the legends of ancient civilizations like Hwan-guk, Baedal-guk, and Atlantis with modern-day karmic settlement, it weaves together the past, present, and future.
The novel's core message is "forgiveness, reconciliation, and love." It conveys a message of hope: no matter how great a sin one has committed or how deep a grudge one harbors, healing is possible through true repentance and forgiveness.
I hope that readers, like Minjun, will find the courage to heal past wounds and create a better future.
Thank you.