This study aims to empirically assess the influence of K-pop music on the perception of South Korea as a desirable travel destination among foreign K-pop fans. Investigating the multifaceted...Show moreThis study aims to empirically assess the influence of K-pop music on the perception of South Korea as a desirable travel destination among foreign K-pop fans. Investigating the multifaceted factors that attract visitors, including the roles of government initiatives and corporate efforts, the research explores the significance of K-pop within the broader context of influences on foreign K-pop fans’ decisions to visit South Korea. Through survey data collected from 1751 K-pop fans, the results demonstrate that K-pop has a substantial impact on their perception of South Korea, contributing positively to the country's image as a tourist destination. Furthermore, the research underscores the continued value of government and corporate efforts to attract visitors, particularly through the creation of K-pop-related locations for fan visits. While K-pop does not emerge as the primary motivational factor for half of the respondents, it emerges as the most influential factor shaping the intention to visit South Korea.Show less
As Korea has globalized, so too has its discourse surrounding Korean transnational adoptees. Globalization of the issue can be seen in media portrayal of this group, where their canon of portrayal...Show moreAs Korea has globalized, so too has its discourse surrounding Korean transnational adoptees. Globalization of the issue can be seen in media portrayal of this group, where their canon of portrayal in Korean film and television is now accompanied by non-Korean works of visual media. Through a case study of Return to Seoul, a 2022 film by non-adoptee, non-Korean director Davy Chou, the thesis argues the following. While Return to Seoul as an independent foreign film on transnational Korean adoptees is in some capacity aware of Korea’s national wound and discourse, it is not meant to fit into existing Korean representations or answer to political incentives. Conversely, it is exactly through its divergence from existing portrayals that foreign film on the topic has the potential to resonate with its global audience, and create productive discourse on Korean-ness and foreign-ness.Show less
The Korean Wave, or Hallyu (한류), has captivated global audiences through the popularity of K-pop artists, Korean dramas like ‘Squid Game’, and films such as ‘Parasite’. This phenomenon has boosted...Show moreThe Korean Wave, or Hallyu (한류), has captivated global audiences through the popularity of K-pop artists, Korean dramas like ‘Squid Game’, and films such as ‘Parasite’. This phenomenon has boosted South Korea’s soft power, motivating people to become fans. This thesis investigates whether K-pop, as a soft power tool, has a similar effect on audiences in the Netherlands. An open-ended questionnaire was sent to 12 K-pop fans and 11 non-fans as a control group. Thematic analysis reveals that the K-pop fan group shows they are motivated to seek out more Korean-related content and have a more positive perception of South Korea. In contrast, the non-fan group acknowledges South Korea’s growing positive reception but express uncertainty. A theoretical framework to analyze soft power has been established. The study suggests K-pop can positively influence perceptions of South Korea, contributing to its soft power, though this is more the case for people who are already K-pop fans as opposed to those who are non-fans.Show less
This thesis explores the discrepancies between the 2016 South Korean novel Kim Jiyoung, Born 1982 and its 2019 film adaptation. It contextualises the changes made to the plotline and narrative and...Show moreThis thesis explores the discrepancies between the 2016 South Korean novel Kim Jiyoung, Born 1982 and its 2019 film adaptation. It contextualises the changes made to the plotline and narrative and frames these within feminist history and activism and the socioeconomical and political values in South Korean society. By first exploring the development of feminist discourse and the changes feminist activism has seen from 2015 onwards, we create a frame in which the book and film can be contextualised. After which follow both Korean feminist literature and cinema and their historical significance and the place they have in society and mainstream media. In the analysis we explore the implications of the different narratives the book and film have and what these choices aim to convey. I also assess the limitations these plot changes have, perhaps inadvertently, in the message they are expressing. This thesis concludes with arguments regarding both the novel and the book and how their different plot lines convey different narratives.Show less
The adoption of UNSC Resolution 2375 and 2397 in 2017 marked the intended beginning of the end for North Korea’s lucrative labour exports, to dissuade the country from continuing its nuclear...Show moreThe adoption of UNSC Resolution 2375 and 2397 in 2017 marked the intended beginning of the end for North Korea’s lucrative labour exports, to dissuade the country from continuing its nuclear weapons programmes. However, incongruent outcomes after the repatriation deadline (December 22, 2019) pose the question of how effective sanctions targeting overseas labour have been in practice. Two empirical case studies analyse disruptions and continuities in North Korean overseas labour in (1) Russia as a whole by using visa issuance statistics, and (2) in the restaurant sector, using online review data, to gain insight into the sanctions’ effects. The findings of the first study suggest that Russia has altered its way of registering DPRK workers, rather than banning the phenomenon. Similarly, the second study shows that onethird of the North Korean overseas restaurants with online reviews is still operational far beyond the deadline. These are concentrated in China, Russia and Laos, while more distant countries have mostly closed the restaurants in connection with the sanctions. Overall, despite tangible effects, and keeping in mind hindrances posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, the effectiveness of the sanctions is most substantially undermined by China and Russia.Show less
This study examines how the obsession with education affects the total fertility rate in South Korea. Among many factors, educational expenses weigh heavy when it comes to deciding to have another...Show moreThis study examines how the obsession with education affects the total fertility rate in South Korea. Among many factors, educational expenses weigh heavy when it comes to deciding to have another child. This study shows how education has been a means of social mobility throughout Korea’s history, how traces of this are still visible in contemporary South Korea, and how educational developments during the last century have caused private educational expenses to rise significantly. The results show that the societal preoccupation with status and education brings about excessive educational expenditures, causing parents to hold off on having a child or to give up on having another child completely, and thus lowering the total fertility rate.Show less
This thesis uncovered the reasons behind Koryoin’s common experience of South Korean society seeing them as not “Korean enough.” After the dissolution of the Soviet Union and the growing need of...Show moreThis thesis uncovered the reasons behind Koryoin’s common experience of South Korean society seeing them as not “Korean enough.” After the dissolution of the Soviet Union and the growing need of foreign labor by the South Korean economy, co-ethnics were the most favored by South Korea, explaining the growing (re)settlement of the Koryoin in South Korea. Although being ethnic Korean, they’re commonly treated as foreigners and the Koryoin feel alienated, making it an anomaly if South Korea brands itself as the homeland of all Koreans. Through a descriptive literature review followed by the usage of academic articles, news articles, and documentaries, the problem can be pointed towards South Korea’s exclusive monoethnic nationalism whereby full Korean blood is the main tenant sustaining this ideology. Yet, factors like language, customs and habits, and looks seem to be of such an importance that the nonfulfillment of these ‘requirements’ results in the othering the Koryoin experience, regardless of having Korean ancestry. South Korea’s paradoxical monoethnic nationalism, termed tanilminjok-ism in this thesis, was created for social cohesion yet the academic discussion criticizes if that is still the case. The Koryoin voice out their hardships of being marginalized and wish to be included in South Korea’s growing multicultural society, warranting a bigger push for inclusivity.Show less
Based on previous research on the queer community and queer activism in South Korea, specifically that on visibility, and an analysis on three Korean online fora (DCInside, Instiz, and GayKorea),...Show moreBased on previous research on the queer community and queer activism in South Korea, specifically that on visibility, and an analysis on three Korean online fora (DCInside, Instiz, and GayKorea), this research searches for the role that online discourse on has within the grand scheme of queer activism. By using a mixed methods approach including discourse analysis, the perspective and dialogue on the queer community on these platforms will be brought forward. From this discourse a general perception is gauged and important key points are extracted. Based on these perceptions and opinions a conclusion is reached, that when it comes to online discourse, the queer controlled narratives and the space it provides for education on the queer community, is something that’s one of a kind in this day and age in South Korea.Show less
This study investigates the shifts in spiritual aura shamanistic objects experience when they transfer to a museum. Combining literature research and analysis of shaman paintings across three...Show moreThis study investigates the shifts in spiritual aura shamanistic objects experience when they transfer to a museum. Combining literature research and analysis of shaman paintings across three museums, this research explores how the display, objects, and other contributing factors create the shifts in spiritual aura. The literature research finds that shamanism has a deep spiritual connection with the objects used. When these objects are displayed in museums several factors may change this aura. The findings of the research, consisting of three museums in the Netherlands and South Korea, demonstrate that the shifting aura depends heavily on the museum’s purpose and how the exhibition is curated. Depending on how space, time, purpose, and context of the objects are dealt with spiritual aura alternates. By highlighting these factors, museums can better convey and honor culturally sensitive objects that hold deep spiritual meaning.Show less
This thesis focuses on how visual and descriptive promotional materials between 1953 and the present have impacted the commodification of the Korean adoptee. Through a mixed-method approach, 8...Show moreThis thesis focuses on how visual and descriptive promotional materials between 1953 and the present have impacted the commodification of the Korean adoptee. Through a mixed-method approach, 8 promotional materials are being analyzed using a coding system. The analysis results in a set of 27 individual codings, which are cross-examined to find reoccurring patterns in the materials. The results indicate that the promotional materials used the social and economic hardships faced by the Korean adoptee to write a rescue narrative that called the American prospective parents to adoption. The study’s limitation includes the limited access to promotional material and its sensitivity to bias since the results derive from personal interpretation. Recommendations for future research include a bigger data set to analyze and more evidence-based research to back up the personal interpretations.Show less
In the last two decades, K-dramas have garnered interest among global audiences as a part of the Korean Wave. The Korean government responded by actively using K-dramas as a soft power resource to...Show moreIn the last two decades, K-dramas have garnered interest among global audiences as a part of the Korean Wave. The Korean government responded by actively using K-dramas as a soft power resource to create a more favourable image of South Korea. Among studies on the creation of soft power through K-dramas, there is a lack of studies on European countries. Hence, this thesis aims to partially fill the gap by analysing various theories on how K-dramas reach and maintain their audience, and ensure a lasting impact to create soft power, and apply them on Dutch K-drama viewers. The hypotheses were tested through a survey, which revealed a relation between the amount of K-dramas watched, the frequency of watching K-dramas, and the degree to which respondents considered themselves to be K-drama fans. Direct questions about various aspects of Korea showed that many K-drama fans were more favourable of Korea, demonstrating the creation of soft power through K-dramas in the Netherlands.Show less
This thesis examines the representation of kisaeng in contemporary Korean film. It focuses on the cultural significance of their image and takes a feminist approach. The narratives of feminism,...Show moreThis thesis examines the representation of kisaeng in contemporary Korean film. It focuses on the cultural significance of their image and takes a feminist approach. The narratives of feminism, modernism, nationalism, and traditionalism, which originate from the colonial period and that kisaeng came to be an icon for, are described. Then in the analysis, the films Hwang Jin Yi (2007) and The Treacherous (2015) are checked for the presence of these narratives as well as the depiction of the kisaeng institution. The analysis is conducted utilizing Social Semiotics and MCDA for visual analysis, and also Discourse Analysis. The observational data showed a pattern of the narratives being very present in the films as well as an inaccurate depiction of the kisaeng institution.Show less
Through closed reading analysis, this thesis looked at the North Korean nation brand specifically in relation to the image of the state. It found that, through three topics which also act as...Show moreThrough closed reading analysis, this thesis looked at the North Korean nation brand specifically in relation to the image of the state. It found that, through three topics which also act as symbols in the new nation brand, the state tried to convey care for its people and its competence as a leading body. This leads to the conclusion that North Korea is trying to establish a more positive nation brand by improving its image using the image repair theory. It did so by both stressing the good traits of the state and by delivering counter-messages to the ideas that North Korea is a dictatorship and that people are being forced to follow the state. This was done by emphasizing the benefits of living in North Korea and establishing the narrative that people follow the state out of gratitude.Show less
This autoethnographic study examines academic literature, Sinch'ŏnji’s official websites, newspaper articles and the author’s personal narratives to shed light on Sinch'ŏnji’s recruitment tactics,...Show moreThis autoethnographic study examines academic literature, Sinch'ŏnji’s official websites, newspaper articles and the author’s personal narratives to shed light on Sinch'ŏnji’s recruitment tactics, core beliefs, and the author’s personal involvement with the organization. The analysis reveals nuanced recruitment strategies and the pathway to membership through intensive Bible study and exams. Through an examination of the author’s own experience, this study elaborates on the transition from novice church attendee to committed student, while discovering Sinch'ŏnji’s unique theology. Diverging from mainstream Christianity, Sinch'ŏnji’s interpretations of biblical parables and prophesies accentuate the significance of Lee Man-hee and his church in the establishment of the millennial Kingdom of God on earth. Reflections on remaining in and departing from Sinch'ŏnji illustrate the personal ramifications of involvement with the religious organization.Show less
This paper asks how co-ethnic hierarchy informs the formulation and implementation of South Korean official policies on diaspora return migration. While prior Diaspora Engagement Policy (DEP)...Show moreThis paper asks how co-ethnic hierarchy informs the formulation and implementation of South Korean official policies on diaspora return migration. While prior Diaspora Engagement Policy (DEP) research often observed preference for diaspora members over other immigrants, this paper expands the literature on DEP by considering South Korea’s preference for certain co-ethnic groups over other within diaspora. The analysis includes the three largest Korean diaspora groups: the Korean-Chinese, Koryoin, and Korean-Americans. First, by conducting a Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) of laws, this paper examines presence of a co-ethnic hierarchy in formulated return migration policies. Second, an exploration of diaspora groups’ eligibility for Overseas Korea visas reveals how co-ethnic hierarchy informs implemented return migration policies. Although there is no explicit differential treatment between diaspora groups in formulated policies since 2004, there is an apparent co-ethnic hierarchy in visa regulation. Implicit language found in legal textual policies confirms that the South Korean government regulates return migration of its diaspora according to a hierarchical order.Show less
This research examines how the counterpublics in personal blogs written by adult South Korean adoptees illuminate processes of accepting and rejecting their racial, ethnic, and adoptive identities....Show moreThis research examines how the counterpublics in personal blogs written by adult South Korean adoptees illuminate processes of accepting and rejecting their racial, ethnic, and adoptive identities. Through counterpublics, members of subordinate groups create and spread narratives that diverge from the dominant discourses. Since the late 1990s, with the growth of the international adoptee community, adoptees have started to regain their voices through counterpublics on online platforms. Using the framework of corpus-assisted discourse studies (CADS), the blogs of adult South Korean adoptees were analysed. The main themes were identified with word list and Keyword-in-Context (KWIC) tools. Narrative and identity analysis revealed the complicated emotions connected to being adopted and found that the adoptees’ self-claimed identities were more complex than the identities imposed by others. Through exploration of Korean heritage, culture, and engagement in the adoptee community, the adoptees changed their self-identification and attitudes, leading to their gaining acceptance or even pride in their different identities.Show less
Analysing the implications of intercountry adoption from Korea to the Netherlands, reveals the complex identity navigation of Korean adoptees. Korea has been a prominent sending country in the...Show moreAnalysing the implications of intercountry adoption from Korea to the Netherlands, reveals the complex identity navigation of Korean adoptees. Korea has been a prominent sending country in the recent past, increasing the number of children who grew up in a different ethnic environment. To navigate and construct their sense of belonging, Korean adoptees embark on a journey in which they explore various sides of themselves. The findings reveal that their ethnic exploration is underdeveloped at first due to assimilation and colour-blindness within Dutch society. They faced significant identity challenges by growing up in a predominantly White environment. However, as they grew older, most adoptees attempted to reconcile with their heritage through cultural practices, empowering themselves with a unique sense of belonging due to embodying a hybrid identity. This thesis highlights the importance of racial sensitivity and open discussions within the context of a multicultural society. Lastly, it is crucial that adoptees feel empowered to embrace and find solace in every aspect of their adoption.Show less
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
Among Korea’s historical figures Yi Sunsin is one of its most revered heroes. Admiral Yi made his name during the Imjin War (1592-1598) by giving his life to fend off the Japanese navy and thereby...Show moreAmong Korea’s historical figures Yi Sunsin is one of its most revered heroes. Admiral Yi made his name during the Imjin War (1592-1598) by giving his life to fend off the Japanese navy and thereby saving the Korean Peninsula. His spirit of overcoming national disaster was revived at the dawn of Japanese colonial rule through the research of Korean elites pleading for Chosŏn to become a modern and strong nation. This same task was continued by Park Chung-hee who once again called upon the spirit of Admiral Yi Sunsin, and made him the hero of the modern nation: Republic of Korea. This strategy of using a historical figure to fit political goals can be seen as an example of politics of memory. When analysing the image of Yi Sunsin presented over the last decennia, it becomes clear the admiral has been continuously used for the politics of memory: the image of Admiral Yi is recreated to support the policies and political agendas of the ruling government.Show less
