FINDINGS/RESEARCH
This page shows the research I did for my personal project. I researched culture, communication, and how events help people understand each other better.
Korea and Japan have a rather long history that reaches over many centuries. The influence that geography had on these areas is astounding; they also influenced each other in many ways. Whether that is through trade, culture, and conflict, Japan and Korea have had a long history.
Korea and Japan shared culture and knowledge in ancient times: Korea helped introduce Buddhism, writing systems (Chinese characters), and technology to Japan, as did Japan towards Korea. During this time, the general relationship was mostly peaceful and for learning and exchange reasons, thus promoting intercultural understanding.
The most tormenting period in the history of Korea–Japan relations was the colonization of Korea by Japan from 1910 until it surrendered in the Second World War, in 1945. In those times, Korea lost its independence, and many Koreans were compelled to renounce their language and culture, adjusting even to new "Japanese names." This period caused great suffering and left long-lasting pain, which still affects today's relations.
After the defeat in World War II, Korea won its independence. But this did not mean that with the end of the "war" all problems would just disappear. Political problems developed even centuries later regarding disagreements over history, apologies, and compensation.
Today, Korea and Japan are both modern, democratic countries and their political relationships are improving by day. They share interests in technology, education, pop culture, and global cooperation. At the same time, the overwhelming historical issues sometimes cause political disagreements in the seperate communities.
Learning about this history is important because it helps people understand why emotions can still be strong today. By learning from the past and focusing on communication, cultural exchange, and respect, younger generations can help build a better future between Korea and Japan.
FINDINGS WITH EVIDNECE
Through my project, I learned how the relation between Korea and Japan impacts children, but in a different manner than it impacts adults. Children may not necessarily have their own opinions about other countries, but their opinions are formed with the concepts and information they hear from adults and the media.
For example, during my own experience, I noticed that when children from different cultural backgrounds played games and interacted, they became comfortable almost at once, as they did not seem to concentrate much on the cultural or historical differences. They were too involved in enjoying themselves to bother about anything else.
This also taught me that no matter the history that Korea and Japan share, young children are very open-minded individuals. Every experience helps them develop friendly and respectful attitudes towards one another. I learned that providing children with safe and inclusive cultural events is an essential factor because these will affect their perspectives towards cultures in the future.
OPVL
