Hong Gildong was written during a strict Confucian period in Korea’s history, and the tale was considered revolutionary at the time. The vindication of an illegitimate child and the forceful redistribution of wealth were provocative themes, and Heo Gyun fully intended to upset society and promote radicalism when he set out to write his action-packed tale.

What stands out in the text is that despite being every bit the Korean Robin Hood, it’s also surprisingly pensive. Gildong is a hero in turmoil with his identity. He regrets much of his heroic life and wishes simply that his father had loved him. The story culminates in a moment in which the personification of death asks Gildong if he has enjoyed his time on Earth. Before we receive the hero’s answer, he has already vanished from the world.