Korean Self Image Essay

During the decades of Japanese colonial rule, Korean self image underwent significant changes. Due to the rapid modernization brought about by the Japanese takeover, Korean culture became significantly more nationalistic. Nationalism refers to the process of desiring a nation’s well-being and autonomy as though it were your personal interest. The Korean self-image of scholars and politicians during the time of colonial rule was one which desired power, autonomy, and held a fierce sense of nationalism and pride towards its nation. In this paper, I will argue that, despite the negative repercussions Korea experienced as a result of Japanese colonial rule, the endeavours of the nation throughout these few decades were essential in creating the …show more content…
I will examine the influences of historical re-interpretation of the nation’s beginnings, religious resistance and adaptation to colonial rule, and more common usage of the vernacular on the development of Korean identity. In conjunction with a more relaxed system of government under the cultural policy, these three factors all contribute largely to the shaping of Korean self-image at the time. As a result of this more lax policy, literature, art, religion, and history under Korean historians became more Korean-centric, allowing for further development on the unique definition of what it means to be Korean. These changes in Korean culture helped create the necessary foundation for a unique Korean identity, which became the basis for modern day Korean …show more content…
As the Japanese invasion overtook Korea, the nation was forced to modernize in all aspects at an extremely rapid rate, meaning that many religions had to implement reforms in order to keep up with the changing times. Furthermore, religions at the time were also tasked with protecting their Korean identities or characteristics against Japanese control, in order to ensure preservation of their unique, nation specific religious traits. For example, many religions chose to publish magazines and public newsletters to promote reforms which catered to what their specific religion preaches. For Christians, Kim Kyosin, a Christian leader and nationalist at the time, founded a magazine titled Songso Choson, which translates to Biblical Korea. Kim recalled the moment his naive days as a student ended when he realized his nationality brought limitations to his future. Rather than succumbing to despair and hopelessness, Kim instead chose to celebrate what he believed to be Korea’s greatest gift, the bible. Thus, with a group of like minded individuals, he founded the magazine Songso Choson, which aimed to spread messages of Christianity and Korean pride throughout the nation. Kim’s creation of Songso Choson is a prime example of both nationalistic pride and love for religion. The magazine sought to bring messages of comfort and hope in times of despair, and preached Christian values intended for its