Professor Cho Hwan Eik, Special Appointment Professor in the Business Administration Major at Kookmin University (President Jeong Seung Ryul), has donated a handwritten letter by Haegong Shin Ik Hee. Haegong Shin Ik Hee was the uncle of Professor Cho Hwan Eik's maternal grandmother.

The donated handwritten letter, treasured and preserved by Professor Cho Hwan Eik's grandmother, is a vivid record of modern Korean history and holds significant meaning for reaffirming Kookmin University's identity and founding spirit.

The handwritten letter by Haegong Shin Ik Hee is a historical document imbued with the resolute determination of the time, reflecting the imperative to overcome national turmoil and crisis, as well as the resolve to prepare for a presidential run. The letter contains a passage stating, “For democracy in crisis, we must pioneer a new path of life beyond death,” revealing how deeply Shin Ik Hee contemplated his democratic calling and national duty. This serves as invaluable historical evidence vividly attesting to Haegong's spirit as a leader designing the community's future, not merely a politician.

The deep historical connection between Kookmin University and Haegong Shin Ik Hee also served as an important backdrop for this donation. As a key figure in the Provisional Government of the Republic of Korea, Shin Ik Hee laid the foundation for democracy. He also established Kookmin University, where he established the educational philosophy of ‘community spirit’.

Professor Cho Hwan Eik stated, “It is deeply meaningful for Kookmin University to preserve these handwritten letters embodying Shin Ik Hee's vision,” adding, “We decided to donate them in the hope that they will become living historical materials enabling Kookmin University members to understand the community spirit and tangibly feel the school's roots.”

Kookmin University President Chung Seung-ryeol remarked, “The handwritten letter by Haegong Shin Ik-hee is a precious record that fully embodies our university's roots and spirit,” adding, “We will preserve it to help our members reflect on Kookmin University's educational philosophy of ‘community spirit’ and widely share its value with many through exhibitions and other means.”

Professor Cho Hwan Eik of Kookmin University is an economic official who entered public service after passing the 14th Administrative Examination in October 1973. He has held key positions in trade and industry, including President of Korea Export Insurance Corporation, President of Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency, and President of Korea Electric Power Corporation.