HIST 78.03 The Two Koreas, 1948-Present

This course explores the emergence of the two Koreas, from a global perspective. Beginning with the legacies of the Chos\\u014Fn Dynasty, we will examine the impact of Japanese colonialism on the divergence of the two nation-states: the Republic of Korea (South Korea) and the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (North Korea). Analyzing scholarly writings and primary sources, the course will focus on the domestic and international processes through which the two regimes clashed and competed in the context of the Cold War. We will primarily focus on drastic differences manifested between the two countries’ ideologies, cultures, and political economies, but also pay attention to unexpected parallels experienced by Koreans across the hostile division. Students will pursue a final research project, in consultation with the instructor, on a comparison of their choice related to the themes of this course. No prior knowledge of the Koreas or the Korean language is expected.

Cross Listed Courses

ASCL 64.05

Degree Requirement Attributes

Dist:SOC; WCult:NW

The Timetable of Class Meetings contains the most up-to-date information about a course. It includes not only the meeting time and instructor, but also its official distributive and/or world culture designation. This information supersedes any information you may see elsewhere, to include what may appear in this ORC/Catalog or on a department/program website. Note that course attributes may change term to term therefore those in effect are those (only) during the term in which you enroll in the course.

Department-Specific Course Categories

Class of 2023 and Before Major Dist: AALAC; Class of 2024 and Beyond Major Dist: Asia, modern.