Modern Korean History: Colonialism, Division, and Transformations

Undergraduate / Graduate

Korea has a rich and dynamic history, marked by both coherence and distinctiveness, yet it is often reduced to a one-note image such as North Korea's communism or the global success of BTS. This course offers a fuller understanding of Korea's place in East Asia and the world by exploring modern Korean history across politics, economy, society, and culture. Weekly topics range from colonialism, war, and democratization to transformations in gender, everyday life, and popular culture. Students will examine issues such as economic development, civil movements, cosmetic surgery and the politics of the body, drinking culture, K-pop, K-film, and mukbang (food casting). By engaging with Korea's historical trajectories and cultural heritage, students will not only gain a deeper knowledge of modern Korea but also learn to critique contemporary media representations of the country.