North Korea & Hysteria, Madness
22 Pages Posted: 21 May 2015 Last revised: 10 Jul 2020
Date Written: May 19, 2015
Abstract
The symbolic value of North Korea in contemporary global politics is discussed in historic and cultural context. The relationship of Japan, China and invasions and trade relations is considered over the past 2000 years as well as in the past century. The role of Japanese and Chinese competition for the Korean peninsula is incorporated into the post-WWII anti-Americanism and anti-communism of the area especially post-WWII dictatorships in South Korea. The post-Cold War image of North Korea has become increasingly tragicomic and irrational. It is the essential “Other” today and reflects all that is not embodied the nature of a modern humanity. This characterization extends from the leaders to the people who are illustrated in the news, films and other media in the west as childish, animal-like or brutalized as if devoid of intelligence or humanity. The effect has only to continue conflict and isolation.
Keywords: North Korea, South Korea, World War II, Korean Conflict, Park Dictatorship
JEL Classification: N25, N45, P31, R50
Suggested Citation: Suggested Citation