Analyzing Korean National Identity
The movie “Brotherhood of War” gives a detailed analysis of the Korean national identity. The story of Jin-tae and Jin-seok portrays the kind of struggles experienced by many people in the country especially during the Korean War (The Brotherhood of War). The concepts of hope and optimism are also entrenched in the country’s national identity. The film describes how Jin-tae works hard to fulfill his promises to Jin-Seok. It is also agreeable that “the national identity is steeped in regret because of the infamous war that affected the lives of many Koreans” (Pai 24). As well, the pursuit of various ideals is a unique aspect of Korea’s identity. Many people in the country focus on immediate success and satisfaction. The desire for success is embraced as one of the best approaches towards restoring the pride that existed before the war (Chee 19). Self-confidence and pride form a big part of the people’s national identity.
How Korean Movies Present Korean National Identity
The people of South Korea try to identify new sources of historical pride despite the existing confusion. The people have been using different movies to present the Korean national identity to the globe. These people tend to create movies that can help more people rediscover the Korean pride. The filmmakers identify specific heroes who played a significant role towards making South Korea what it is today (Vickers 31). The movies have been widely used to normalize the situation and address the confusions that have characterized the country within the past century. Such movies have therefore played a huge role towards restoring hope and confidence in the people’s hearts. However, some anthropologists have argued that feelings of hopelessness have been part of the county’s mentality (Shin 48). These issues can be observed in the movie “Brotherhood of War”. It should therefore be acknowledged that such movies play a positive role towards redefining the Korean national identity.
My National Identity: Crisis in the US
I have always been proud to be associated with my country. This national identity plays a significant role in my life. For instance, my friends and colleagues believe that I have the potential to achieve numerous goals. The identity has made it easier for me to focus on new goals and be able to make my life much better. I always focus on new goals and work hard to achieve them. The Korean identity guides and encourages me to work hard. However, I have encountered different forms of discrimination in the United States (Park 28). For instance, the quality of services received from different stores is usually discriminatory. Sometimes it is hard for Asians to get good jobs in the country. However, I am working hard in order to achieve my potentials. Despite such concerns, I am proud to be associated with my Korean culture and identity.
Works Cited
Chee, Yeonsoo. Korean National Identity, Resistance, and Collaboration. Long Beach: California State University, 2008. Print.
Pai, Hyung. Constructing “Korean” Origins. Seoul: Harvard University Asia Center, 2011. Print.
Park, Young. Korea and the Imperialists: In Search of a National Identity. New York: Routledge, 2012. Print.
Shin, Gi-wook. Ethnic Nationalism in Korea: Genealogy, Politics, and Legacy. Stanford: Stanford University Press, 2011. Print.
The Brotherhood of War. Ex. Prod. Lee Seong-hun. New York, NY: Samuel Goldwyn Films. 2004. DVD.
Vickers, Edward. History Education and National Identity in East Asia. New York: Routledge, 2009. Print.