KOREA IS “CLEANING HOUSE”
By J. E. F.
Japan on the Asiatic Continent
WHATEVER may be thought of Japan’s aggressive policy on the continent of Asia, we should be fair enough to admit the marvelous changes for the better which have been wrought in Korea since that backward country has been annexed to Japan. On arrival at the port of Fusan, in southern Korea, one observes the good streets, the railway station, the fine public buildings of brick, the parks, and the markets. Everything has an air of up-to-dateness and progress. A pleasing feature in contrast to China, and to Korea as it was, and as it is still in many places, is the fact that Korea is “cleaning house.” There is great room for improvement yet, but there has been wonderful advancement in those centers where Japanese influence has been strongest. Our second visit, at the end of a year, proved beyond a doubt that in so short a time as a year, visible changes for the betterment of Korea could be readily seen. Missionaries to whom we spoke confirm this statement. Hitherto denuded hills are gradually covered with trees, and almost barren slopes are covered with fruit trees and carpets of living green. On almost everything in Korea, the Japanese are leaving their impress. Natives are required to plant forest trees, and forbidden to cut any down, except under certain conditions. Along the water front in Fusan, reclamation of land was carried on. A track had been laid; and a donkey engine and trucks were conveying many tons of earth, which is rapidly filling in excellent building property. IT was early springtime as we boarded the train and left Fusan behind. All along the flats of the Rakuto River, we saw Korean men and women in their fields, some plowing, others planting and hoeing. The plows were primitive affairs generally; but in many places, the Japanese have started experimental farms, and are rapidly teaching their Korean cousins better farming methods. All through Korea, especially along the railways and in large centers, are large and modern public buildings erected by the Japanese. Immense sums have been expended for reconstruction purposes. Korea is putting on a new dress, and Japan is responsible for these changes. Not only has Japanese influence spread over Korea, but stretching farther north away into Manchuria, the Japanese government has great railroad interests, and has built along its railways large stations, hotels, and other buildings. Its interests along the way are guarded by soldiers, who can be seen at every station, standing with swords and rifles with fixed bayonets. To the visitor from abroad, there naturally comes the question, What has become of the government? Plainly Japan is firmly planted in Manchuria, and apparently is there to stay. What part she is to act in the great closing drama outlined in prophecy is an interesting study. The revelator saw “the kings that come from the sunrising” gathering their forces for the last great battle. Rev. 16: 12-16. Japan, the “Sunrise Kingdom,” will be a leading nation there. Quickly she has arisen to be one of the chief military powers of the world. Her navy is rapidly assuming large proportions. Already she is firmly planted on the mainland of Asia. Here she must wield great influence in the Far East, and be a prominent figure in fulfilling prophecy. J. E. F.