Born into a poor peasant's family, he keenly experienced the sorrow of stateless people while pursuing knowledge under difficulties in Japan.

In the course he came to set out on the road of the anti-Japanese patriotic struggle, longing for progressive ideology.

However, at a loss what to do, he had to wander about, traveling to Japan, Seoul and northeastern China to go under the correct guidance of a distinguished revolutionary leader.

A radical turn was made in his life when he came under the care of President Kim Il Sung. Enchanted with his personality and outstanding idea, Cha was determined to always follow the President.

He became a member of the Down-with-Imperialism Union (DIU) organized by Kim Il Sung, and did every possible effort to revolutionize villages of Koreans in Manchuria of China while being active as a leading member of different organizations.

Later, Cha, as a core member of the first party organization, contributed to the formation of KRA and KPRA.

After assuming an important post as chief of the staff of the KPRA, he did his utmost to carry into practice Kim Il Sung's strategic plans, and died a heroic death in a fierce battle with the Japanese imperialists in Dunhua of China.

Recalling him, Kim Il Sung in his reminiscences "With the Century" wrote:

When I recall my Jilin days, many unforgettable faces appear before my mind's eye. In their forefront there is always Cha Kwang Su.