This paper explores the McCune-Reischauer, Revised, and Yale Romanizations to establish whether the Yale Romanization of Korean, the current standard in linguistics, is truly suitable for this...Show moreThis paper explores the McCune-Reischauer, Revised, and Yale Romanizations to establish whether the Yale Romanization of Korean, the current standard in linguistics, is truly suitable for this field in the Netherlands. The author looks at this issue from a pronunciation accuracy perspective, by having linguistics students and professionals at Leiden University read out phrases in the three transcription systems and quantifying their struggles in pronouncing the different romanizations. Additionally, a survey has been conducted, which asked participants from 3 Dutch universities to choose a preferred transcription system after listening to a Korean word. Both methods found that McCune-Reischauer was pronounced the most accurately and was most preferred by linguistic students. Yale Romanization was the least accurate and least preferred. The author thus argues that while Yale Romanization certainly has its distinct benefits, it is critically lacking in pronounceability and legibility, and is therefore not suitable for all parts of linguistics in its current state.Show less
This thesis explores to what extent and how self-expression is portrayed in K-Pop choreography. The theoretical framework takes into account K-Pop idols' professionalism, the influence of modern...Show moreThis thesis explores to what extent and how self-expression is portrayed in K-Pop choreography. The theoretical framework takes into account K-Pop idols' professionalism, the influence of modern dance education, and the sociological dynamic combination of “collectivism” and “individualism” as represented in relation to the concepts of “holism” and ilmu. Additionally, an analysis of K-Pop choreography through four generations was performed to reveal a development in the incorporation of self-expressive aspects. The first generation exhibits subtle signs of semiotic use and point choreography. A more defined framework for K-Pop choreography is established in the second generation, which also includes individualistic concepts like the "domino effect." The third generation features choreography that utilises sign language and different dance genres, while the fourth generation shows an increase in the showcasing of individuality when taking into account changes made to official choreography. The research therefore shows that the scene of K-Pop choreography is developing in terms of showing self-expression, allowing idols to express their uniqueness while retaining collective harmony.Show less
This paper examines the notable shifts that have occurred in the Korean literary industry throughout the last three decades, in relation to the scale shifting of Korea’s outbound literature in...Show moreThis paper examines the notable shifts that have occurred in the Korean literary industry throughout the last three decades, in relation to the scale shifting of Korea’s outbound literature in translation, resulting in the increase of interest in Korean literature worldwide. This is analyzed through the three infrastructures, stated by Levitt and Shim, (1) a shift in policy through export and promotion, (2) a shift in tone through discovery and consecration and (3) a shift in the vernacular through connection and vernacularization. This study also articulates how Korean literature’s emergence worldwide has not yet gained the desired recognition due to a series of transnational factors. Consequently, it will reveal the different stances in the discussion surrounding the limits and issues within the Korean literary circle (mundan) and finally, it points out how Korean literature in translation can accomplish both domestic and international prestige and leave its footprint on the global literary market.Show less
This thesis will examine South Korean society through sagŭk dramas, focussing on the question: “How is history represented in sagŭk dramas and what can the changes over time tell us about the...Show moreThis thesis will examine South Korean society through sagŭk dramas, focussing on the question: “How is history represented in sagŭk dramas and what can the changes over time tell us about the targeted society?”. To answer this question, a macro-perspective approach is combined with a case study. The macro-perspective analysis involves a comprehensive examination of the development of sagŭk dramas over time, aiming to identify overarching trends and shifts in the genre. The case study is structured as a comparison of three sagŭk dramas (The King of Chudong Palace (MBC, 1983), Jeong Do-jeon (KBS1, 2014), and My Country: The New Age (JTBC, 2019)) each depicting the same period, events, and historical characters. Specific examples of each of the dramas’ use of narration, on-screen text, language, costume design, music, and cinematography are used to point out changes in Korean society over time.Show less
The way criminals are treated has been changing for centuries. When the West started to abolish corporal punishments and treat prisoners with more respect, Japan wanted to follow to gain respect...Show moreThe way criminals are treated has been changing for centuries. When the West started to abolish corporal punishments and treat prisoners with more respect, Japan wanted to follow to gain respect and be seen as a world power. Nowadays, there is a UN document that states how to treat prisoners in a humane way, But during the early 20th century this was not yet in use. When Japan colonized the Korean peninsula and reformed their prison system, it was more humane, but whether that is true has not been researched yet. Neither is the question if Japan treated the prisoners on the Korean peninsula the same as they treated the prisoners on the mainland of Japan. This study found out that there was a significant difference in treatment in both the prison systems, mainly due to the use of torture. Thus, the treatment of Korean prisoners in Korea cannot be deemed humane when compared to the definition of the UN.Show less
In recent years the moon jar has become known as a symbol of a national Korean identity. Moon jars are made of porcelain and have a large, spherical body that is made in two separate halves which...Show moreIn recent years the moon jar has become known as a symbol of a national Korean identity. Moon jars are made of porcelain and have a large, spherical body that is made in two separate halves which are luted together. The vessel emerged out of practicality and was appreciated for its purposefulness and distinctly Korean aesthetics. From the colonial period onwards, the vessel was reinterpreted by Japanese scholars to suit their colonial narrative. Following liberation of colonial rule, the moon jar was elevated to the status of a national symbol and promoted through active strategies of cultural diplomacy. Nowadays, the moon jar is approached aesthetically and philosophically in American and British Museum. By analyzing catalog text it can be concluded that the moon jar is seen as an exemplary artwork representing Chosôn aesthetics and philosophical values.Show less
