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Front: Syngman Rhee (1875-1965), President of South Korea 1948-1960

Rhee was educated in the United States, where he received a Ph.D in International Law from Princeton University. He returned to South Korea after WWII, and was elected first President of South Korea in 1948.

Rhee led South Korea during the Korean War, and remained in power after the War. Over the years his regime was seen as authoritarian, corrupt and inefficient. He was re-elected in 1956 and 1960 by large majorities. However, few believed the elections had been fair and gave rise to widespread anti-government demonstrations. A student uprising toppled Rhee's government in 1960. Rhee escaped to Hawaii where he remained until his death in 1965.

Back: 1000 Won

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Front: Toegye (1501-1570), a prominent Korean Confucian scholar

Toegye (Lee Hwang) was a great philosopher and Confucian scholar. He declined a high government position in 1559, and returned to his hometown to study and educate younger scholars.

Back: Dosan Confucian School in Andong, Gyeonsangbuk-do

This school was built on the site where Toegye educated his disciples. It is one of the three great Confucian schools that survived beyond the Joseon Period. There are over 4,000 books there, as well as Toegye's grave.

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Front: Yulgok (1536-1584), a great Confucian scholar

Yulgok (Lee I) was a prodigy. He received top grades on the official government appointment tests nine consecutive times. Like Toegye, he was a great Korean Confucian scholar.

Back: Ojukheon, the birthplace of Yulgok, in Gangneung, Gangwon-do

This is one of Korea's oldest existing houses. It was built in the period of King Jungjong (1506-1544). Yulgok was born in this house and lived there with his mother.

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Front: Toegye (1501-1570), a prominent Korean Confucian scholar

Back: Gaesangjunggeodo