Korean Folktale : The Oath of General Gyebaek

⚔️ Korean Folktale Series 36

“The Oath of General Gyebaek”

(계백 장군의 맹세 · Gyebaek Janggun-ui Maengse)

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🕰️ 1. The Story

Long ago, during the final days of the Baekje Kingdom in ancient Korea, there lived a valiant warrior named General Gyebaek. Known for his unwavering loyalty, courage, and sense of duty, he served his king and country with absolute devotion.

 

When the powerful kingdom of Silla, allied with Tang China, prepared to invade Baekje, Gyebaek was chosen to lead the defense. Yet he knew the truth—his army was small, outnumbered thousands to one. Still, his resolve did not waver.

Before marching to battle, Gyebaek returned home one last time. There, he looked upon his beloved wife and children with sorrow in his eyes. He knew what lay ahead: defeat was inevitable. But he also knew that surrender was not an option for a man of honor.

With tears in his heart, he said,

“If I fall in battle, I cannot bear the thought of my family suffering at the enemy’s hands. I will send you to the heavens before I go, and join you when my duty is done.”

He bowed deeply to them, then carried out his painful decision. When dawn came, he led his soldiers to the Battle of Hwangsanbeol, where they faced an army of fifty thousand with only five thousand men.

Before the fight began, Gyebaek stood before his troops and swore:

“We are few, but our hearts are pure. Let us show the world that loyalty and courage burn brighter than fear. Even if we perish, our spirits will guard Baekje forever!”

His men shouted in unison, their voices echoing across the valley. The battle raged fiercely, and though they fought bravely, Baekje fell that day.

 

But the story of Gyebaek’s Oath lived on—not as a tale of defeat, but of unbreakable honor. Even centuries later, Koreans remember him as the warrior who chose righteousness over survival, proving that true victory lies in faith and integrity.

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🪄 2. Meaning & Lessons

• Honor and loyalty can shine even in the darkest moments.
• True courage is not about winning, but standing firm for what is right.
• Sacrifice made for one’s principles becomes eternal glory.

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👀 3. Reflections in Life

• Standing by one’s values, even when alone, is the highest form of strength.
• Integrity may bring loss in the moment, but peace in the soul forever.
• A noble heart leaves a legacy that time cannot erase.

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🌏 4. Similar Tales Around the World

•  Japan — The Forty-Seven Ronin
  Loyal samurai who sacrificed their lives for honor and duty.
•  China — Yue Fei, the Loyal General
  A warrior remembered for defending his nation with absolute faithfulness.
•  Greece — Leonidas and the 300 Spartans
  Soldiers who stood against overwhelming odds to defend their homeland.

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💬 A Warm Saying

“The heart that stands for honor never truly falls.”

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📌 Note

This is creative cultural content from the Misojieum Story Blog (kor-telling.com).
Please do not copy without permission. Sharing is welcome with proper source citation.