Who composed the music of South Korea’s national anthem, “Aegukga”?

Ahn Eak-tai composed the music of South Korea’s national anthem, “Aegukga.”

The Korean title means “patriotic song,” and the lyrics are generally attributed to Yun Chi-ho, although earlier versions have also been associated with An Chang-ho. The text expresses devotion to Korea and its natural landscape, including the Mugunghwa, or rose of Sharon, a national symbol.

Ahn composed the present melody in 1935 while studying and working abroad. Before that melody became established, the words were often sung to the tune of “Auld Lang Syne,” especially among Koreans living outside the country.

The modern arrangement was used by the Korean independence movement and by the government established in South Korea in 1948. Unlike some national anthems, “Aegukga” does not have a separate official title referring to the country; the word simply identifies it as a patriotic song.