On the episode aired on the 16th, 'The Story of the Day Biting Its Tail' ('Kkokomu') featured comedians Kim Jin-soo, actors Kim Ki-bang, and Hong Ye-ji as listeners, revealing the bizarre obsession of treasure hunters and discussing human desire and happiness.
The dangerous excavation was driven by the legend of 'Yamashita's Gold.' Rumors from World War II suggested that the Japanese army hid 2,400 tons of gold, worth approximately $600 trillion, equivalent to South Korea's annual budget. This story, originating from General Tomoyuki Yamashita's 'Golden Lily Operation,' spread like wildfire, even reaching Philippine news.
Busan, due to its proximity to Japan, emerged as a prime exploration site, dubbed 'Korea's El Dorado.' At the center was Park Soo-woong, former barber to President Park Chung-hee, who began excavations in 1988 based on a treasure map. The map indicated the structure of an underground torpedo factory, 36 gold statues, 450 tons of gold bars, and a treasure warehouse, with land purchase records from 1945 by the Japanese Government-General of Korea bolstering his confidence. Despite a decade of digging, nothing was found.
Jung, who participated in Park's work, claimed to know the location of the gold bars and sought investors. He gained trust by alleging a secret contract with a former CIA official, leading to multi-million dollar investments and the resumption of excavations. In March 2002, drilling began, and underwater camera exploration revealed sacks in an underground space, raising expectations. The sacks bore markings resembling those of a Japanese company, with Chinese characters, creating a buzz in Busan.
The incident led to an investment fraud case, with Jung sentenced to prison. Despite ongoing conspiracy theories and suspicions, the gold's existence was never confirmed. Yet, some continued to believe in the legend. Park Soo-woong remained convinced of the gold's existence until his death. Kim Jin-soo commented, "It seems he didn't want to deny everything he had done," while Hong Ye-ji noted, "It must have been hard to endure without a mental victory," expressing sympathy.
In contrast, another treasure hunter, Yoo, who roamed the country, reached a different conclusion. He realized the true treasure was at home—his family who waited for him. Kim Jin-soo remarked, "My real treasure is my family and friends," adding, "It's a simple truth, but it came at a high price," while Kim Ki-bang emphasized, "While financial matters are important, family is crucial," and "Happiness is close by," sharing insights on the true meaning of treasure.
Lee So-jung, TenAsia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr