Shamanism in Colonial Korea 19/02/24

Book Title and Chapter: Korean History, Chapter 2. SHAMANISM IN COLONIAL KOREA, 1910-1945

Author: Eva Vaquera

Date: 2022

Location: Montreal

Japan annexed Korea in 1910, beginning a period of colonization marked by efforts to erase and undermine Korean culture. The Japanese authorities labeled Korean traditions as "backward" and "uncivilized," justifying their cultural destruction under the guise of modernity. Shamanism, a significant aspect of Korean spirituality with deep historical roots, faced severe repression. Japanese colonial policies targeted shamanism, deeming it superstitious and socially destabilizing. Despite this, shamans resisted assimilation, sometimes using Japanese stereotypes to avoid suppression.

Throughout the colonization period, shamanism was not only a cultural practice but also a form of resistance. The Japanese attempted to incorporate shamanism into Shinto, aiming to control Korean minds and facilitate cultural assimilation. This integration often faltered due to disputes over the hierarchical status of deities. Additionally, other Korean communities, influenced by Confucianism and Christianity, sometimes supported the Japanese in suppressing shamanism. Despite relentless efforts to eradicate it, shamanism persisted and evolved, symbolizing resistance against colonial oppression. It continues to exist in modern Korea, albeit in varying forms between the North and South, raising questions about its future amidst changing religious landscapes.

As I am inspired by the history of Japanese colonization and the resilience of Korean shamanism, I can start by focusing on the symbolism of resistance. I can draw from shamanistic rituals, highlighting the traditional attire, music, dance, and sacrificial offerings to bring the vibrant cultural practices to life. Illustrate the revered spirits and ancestors interacting with shamans, emphasizing the deep spiritual connections. Contrast these scenes with the oppressive presence of colonial forces, capturing the struggle and the eventual blending of cultures.

This gives me the opportunity to reflect on the historical context by creating imagery that portrays the harsh realities of Japanese colonization, such as forced assimilation, violence, and cultural erasure. Simultaneously, highlighting elements of Korean culture that persisted and adapted, such as traditional clothing, language, and practices, showcasing the resilience and cultural preservation of the Korean people. I ought to delve into emotional themes by portraying the suffering and strength of Koreans during this period, juxtaposing the emotional toll of colonization with their unwavering resilience. Illustrate the shaman’s journey through shinbyeong, capturing the pain and the transformative communion with spirits.

I am inspired to incorporate visual elements that enrich the narrative, using a color palette that includes significant colors to Korean culture, such as the red, blue, and white of the Taegeuk symbol. On the flip side, I can employ contrasting tones to represent the conflict between Japanese and Korean cultures, with dark, oppressive shades for colonization and bright, vibrant hues for shamanism and cultural resilience. Additionally, I can integrate textures and patterns from traditional Korean hanbok or ceremonial clothing to add depth and authenticity.

Moreover, I am inclined to incorporate symbolic imagery, such as shamanic tools like drums, bells, and ritual tables, to anchor the work in shamanistic practices. Subtly use symbols of Japanese authority to convey oppression without overshadowing the central theme of Korean resilience. I can also play with transparency to depict spirits and the ethereal nature of shamanistic practices. In my composition, I can place shamans or important cultural symbols at the center, surrounded by elements of oppression and resistance. Additionally, I may employ dynamic materials and forms to convey the movement and energy of shamanistic rituals, creating a vivid and compelling narrative that captures the enduring spirit of Korean culture amidst adversity.

Bibliography

Vaquera, E. (2022) Shamanism in Colonial Korea, 1910-1945, Korean History. Available at: https://open.muhlenberg.pub/koreanhistory/chapter/shamanism-in-colonial-korea/ (Accessed: 29 February 2024).

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