On September 2, the opening ceremony for the memorial exhibition honoring the great master of Korean linguistics Professor Lee Sung-nyong took place on the first floor of the Kwanjeong Library. Titled “As High and Steadfast as a Mountain,” the exhibition remains open until the end of October. Professor Lee Sung-nyong, also known as Simak, is considered the father of modern Korean linguistics, initiating the scientific study of the Korean language. After earning his Ph.D. in Literature from Seoul National University, Professor Lee started research on linguistics by delving into classical and Western linguistic theories. He produced a wide range of research and publications, and 9,065 books from his collection were posthumously donated to Seoul National University’s Central Library. These materials are crucial for the study of Korean linguistics and comprise the largest individual collection in the library. Thirty years after his passing, this exhibition proudly presents his lasting contribution to the field of Korean linguistics.

President Yoo and Vice President Kim sharing thoughts on Professor Lee

Sharing the Legacy and Memories of Professor Lee

The opening ceremony began with President Yoo Hong-lim’s congratulatory address. Introducing Professor Lee's aims to establish a new institute for Korean linguistics based on scientific principles, President Yoo highlighted the significance of this exhibition in commemorating scholars who shaped Seoul National University's identity as an academic research institute. In particular, he emphasized that the exhibition pays tribute to pioneering scholars who devoted themselves to building Korean scholarship during turbulent times in the nation’s history. Expressing his hope for the legacy of Professor Lee's academic endeavors to be continued, the congratulatory address came to a close with thanking Professor Lee's family and their generous donations. Next, Vice President Kim Seong-Kyu shared his personal memories with Professor Lee. He recounted his memories of visiting Professor Lee during his graduate studies to seek guidance on taking the path of a scholar. Another memorable experience he shared was cataloging books in Professor Lee’s home library alongside Professor Lee Ho-kwon from Korea National Open University. Vice President Kim also mentioned that he participated in the compilation of the commemorative book “30th Anniversary Commemorative Anthology–Lee Sung-nyong, Pioneer of Modern Korean Linguistics," expressing joy and gratitude that both the exhibition and the book came to fruition. The book was donated to the SNU library by Song Cheol-hee, who led the editing of the commemorative anthology. After celebratory performances by SNU Choir, SNU Philharmonic Orchestra, and SNUPia, the student piano society, a ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the formal opening of the exhibition.

The book donation and the ribbon cutting ceremony being held.

Exploring Professor Lee's Scholarly Journey through the "As High and Steadfast as a Mountain"

Located on the first floor of the Kwanjeong Library, the exhibition “As High and Steadfast as a Mountain” features Professor Lee’s scholarly journey through four thematic sections–The Time When We Chased Rainbows, Pioneers of Korean Studies, The Guardians of University Life, For the Scientific Study of the Korean Language–showcasing various books from his collection. The exhibition includes materials such as his graduation thesis from Keijo Imperial University, publications during his tenure in the Chosŏn Language and Literature Association Bulletin, and Professor Lee’s lecture notes from his time as a professor at Keijo University and Seoul National University’s College of Arts and Sciences. The exhibition also presents manuscripts regarding his scientific research efforts, particularly in phonology, word formation, and Middle Korean. His final projects were The History of New Korean Linguistics and Studies in Word Formation, which remained unfinished.

The exhibition “As High and Steadfast as a Mountain”

In addition to documenting his life, the exhibition includes restored manuscripts of medieval Korean texts. Some of these rare books are in the process of being designated as national treasures. Open to the public until October 31, this exhibition offers a valuable opportunity to view the ancient treasures of the father of Korean linguistics.

Written by Jeemin Suh, SNU English Editor, jiminasuh@snu.ac.kr