Yi Cho: A Life of Leadership, Sacrifice, and Korean Independence

Yi Cho (李超, American name: Charles Lee; 1894–1972) was a trailblazer, patriot, and independence activist whose unwavering dedication to Korea’s liberation marked him as a true hero. From his humble beginnings in Pyeongyang to his pivotal roles in the Korean independence movement, and later, his daring contributions to World War II through the U.S. Army, Yi Cho’s life was one of leadership, resilience, and selfless sacrifice.

Early Life and Education

Born in 1894 in Pyeongyang County, Pyeongannam-do, Yi Cho was shaped by the turbulence of Korea’s occupation by Japan. He attended Soongsil Middle School before pursuing further studies in China at the Sanghae Jeondal School, completing his education in 1914. Determined to fight for his homeland’s freedom, Yi Cho traveled to the United States in 1915. There, he joined the Korean National Association (KNA), the leading Korean-American organization advocating for independence from Japanese colonial rule, and began his lifelong journey as a leader in the independence movement.

Champion of the Korean-American Community

In the United States, Yi Cho quickly rose to prominence within the Korean-American community. Between 1916 and the early 1920s, he held numerous leadership roles across several KNA chapters, including those in Claremont, Sacramento, San Francisco, and Riverside. He served as treasurer, director of education, president, secretary-general, and executive committee chairman, spearheading efforts to unite the diaspora and raise funds to support Korea’s provisional government in its resistance to Japanese oppression.

Yi Cho’s influence extended beyond administration. He focused on building community, fostering education, and rallying support for Korea’s independence among Korean expatriates. His selfless dedication inspired others and strengthened the movement in both spirit and strategy.

From Activist to Aviator: Breaking New Ground

The March 1st Independence Movement of 1919, which galvanized Koreans at home and abroad, marked a turning point in Yi Cho’s life. That same year, he co-founded the Korean Patriotic Youth Corps (대한인청년혈성단), an anti-Japanese resistance group of young expatriates. Recognizing the potential of airpower in warfare, Yi Cho pursued aviation training as a means to aid Korea’s liberation.

In August 1919, he and his comrade Lee Yong-seon enrolled in the Redwood Aviation School in California. At just 24 years old, Yi Cho became one of the first Koreans to train as a pilot. His work inspired the establishment of the Willows Korean Aviation School, founded by the Korean Provisional Government, which envisioned airpower as a vital tool in the fight for independence.

In 1920, Yi Cho and Lee Yong-seon participated in historic commemorative flights celebrating the March 1st Movement, thrilling the Korean-American community as they soared into the skies. These were the first documented flights piloted by Koreans, symbolizing hope and progress for a future free from colonial rule.

World War II and the NAPKO Project

Despite the eventual disbandment of the Willows Korean Aviation School in 1921, Yi Cho’s dedication to Korea’s independence never wavered. By the early 1940s, Yi Cho was living in Los Angeles, running a successful laundry business. However, with the onset of World War II and Japan’s attack on Pearl Harbor in December 1941, Yi Cho saw another chance to fight for Korea’s freedom.

In 1942, Yi Cho was recruited by the U.S. Office of Strategic Services (OSS)—the precursor to the CIA—for the top-secret NAPKO Project. The project aimed to train Korean agents to infiltrate the Japanese-occupied Korean Peninsula, gather intelligence, and sabotage Japanese operations. Despite being 49 years old and having previously battled tuberculosis, Yi Cho enlisted as a private in the U.S. Army in January 1945, demonstrating his unshakable resolve to serve his homeland.

During his four months of grueling training with the OSS Field Experimental Unit, Yi Cho’s fluency in Korean, English, and his proficiency in Chinese and Japanese made him an invaluable asset. His physical endurance and exceptional leadership led to his promotion to staff sergeant and appointment as the leader of an infiltration team. One report described Yi Cho as “the natural and logical choice” for this role, noting his courage, influence, and ability to inspire respect among his peers.

Unfortunately, Yi Cho’s plans to carry out dangerous missions behind enemy lines were cut short by Japan’s sudden surrender on August 15, 1945, which led to the immediate cancellation of the NAPKO Project.

A Legacy of Patriotism and Sacrifice

Yi Cho’s life was a testament to his unwavering patriotism, boundless resilience, and innovative spirit. From his leadership within the Korean-American community to his pioneering work as an aviator and covert operative, Yi Cho’s contributions to the Korean independence movement were monumental.

Although he did not live to see a unified Korea, Yi Cho’s sacrifices helped pave the way for the Republic of Korea’s eventual liberation. His courage and tenacity remain an enduring source of inspiration for those who seek freedom, justice, and a better future.

To his descendants, Yi Cho is not just a historical figure but a shining example of selflessness and service. His life reminds us of the power of perseverance in the face of adversity and the enduring impact of one individual’s determination to create change.

* Floyd R. Frazee, Yi Cho’s superior officer in the OSS Field Experimental Unit (FEU), later recommended promoting him from sergeant to staff sergeant, stating in a report:

 “Yi Cho enlisted in the U.S. Army on January 11, 1945, and was assigned to the OSS the very next day to undergo four months of specialized training. This training was designed to prepare agents to lead missions in highly perilous conditions, and Yi Cho consistently demonstrated exceptional courage and leadership throughout.

 Yi Cho is currently serving as the leader of one infiltration team, a role he was not initially slated for. However, based on his remarkable performance during training, the original plan was revised. Yi Cho is fluent in Korean and English and has a strong command of Chinese and Japanese. His character and age make him highly influential among Koreans, as age alone commands deep respect in Korean culture. Despite his age, Yi Cho exhibits exceptional physical fitness, often outperforming younger agents.

Yi Cho volunteered for this dangerous mission out of patriotism, leaving behind a lucrative business. Although initially undecided on who would lead his infiltration team, it became clear during training that Yi Cho was the natural and logical choice. The team consists of Yi Cho, one other sergeant, and one corporal. Colonel Eifler believes that Yi Cho must be promoted to staff sergeant and officially appointed as team leader to ensure the mission’s success.”