KOR 150: History, Memory, and Reality in Contemporary Korea

This is an introductory course in Korean Studies that focus on the major historical, social, and political events in the past 150 years and contemporary issues that Korean society is facing. The course will begin with a general introduction to the country and people of Korea and move onto discussions of specific historical periods and events such as the colonial era, the Korean War, industrialization and democratic and social movements. The course highlights the complex and compound ramifications of the recent Korean history and foreign relations to the 21^st century. The course also aims to juxtapose and challenge the “grand narratives” of history with the lived experiences of people. Taught in English. Knowledge of Korean is not required.  No prerequisites. SS, BN.