Chun Tae-il was born in Daegu on August 26, 1948. Due to his father’s business failure, his family wandered between Daegu, Busan, and Seoul. Young Chun Tae-il worked as a newspaper seller, shoeshine boy, and barrow boy to make a living.
Despite such a harsh environment, Tae-il was a bright and talented boy, and his passion for studying was extraordinary. At 16, he joined Cheong-ok Higher Civic School, a night school. He recalled his memories at school as the happiest phase of his life.
During the day, he helped his father with sewing work, and after 4 p.m., he studied at school. Unfortunately, he had to leave the school owing to family circumstances. However, his desire to study did not wane.