The Review of Korean Studies
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- P-ISSN1229-0076
- E-ISSN2773-9351
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ISSN : 1229-0076
History Textbooks of Transitional States in Central Asia: Comparison of Kazakh and Uzbek Perspectives of Contemporary Korean History
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Abstract
This paper examines how Kazakh and Uzbek textbooks deal with the Korean War after the collapse of the USSR in 1991. Rich in natural resources, these two countries are not only inhabited by a large number of ethnic Koreans but also have close relations with South Korea. The two countries show differences in the transitional process from a closed socialist system to a market economy system. In the case of Kazakhstan that opened its doors to the world and moved away from one-sided relations, its textbooks reflect post-Cold War politics and have removed many of the former USSR’s influences. In dealing with the Korean War, the textbooks maintain a neutral position that tries not to assert any one-sided view. In contrast, being a relatively more homogeneous nation and, consequently, more nationalistic, Uzbekistan retains many of the former USSR’s influences in its textbook narratives. According to these textbooks, South Korea is very much dependent on the U.S., and in dealing with the independence movement, the North Korean influence is noticeable as only Kim Il-sung’s struggles against the Japanese are highlighted. The two countries’ textbooks are critical of the bourgeoisie characteristics of South Korean democracy. In particular, Uzbekistan points to the problems of inequality in wealth, labor policy, social welfare policy, and the unification policy. Certainly, these comments are a valuable feedback for South Korea. More exchanges and dialogues with an open mind will improve relations and help everyone gain objectivity and fairness in understanding each other’s country in the post-Cold War era. Specifically, correcting any fallacies and misinformation contained in each other’s textbooks will improve understanding.
- keywords
- central Asia, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Korean War, textbooks, Republic of Korea, North Korea
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