Gwangju Uprising: A cinematic tribute
Never forgotten. Never forgiven.
South Korea has been through a lot of turmoil, however, the Gwangju uprising left scars that have yet to heal. It’s distressing to know that the government and law enforcement officers who are supposed to protect were beating, rapping, and killing.
In May, the revolt occurred, leaving its imprint on South Korean history and culture. Because our attention spans aren’t what they used to be, I suppose the best way I can think of is to recommend films. Combining education with entertainment.
University students initiated the rebellion in Gwangju (18 May — 27 May 1980) to oppose the unfair martial law and, in particular, the ‘unelected’ President. However, under the pretext of anti-communism sponsored and supported by North Korea, the government repressed (understatement) students and protestors even more harshly.
Some authorities claim that between 1000 and 2000 people died at this time, with much more missing or assumed dead. The uprising had such an influence that it altered the path of politics and spawned numerous reforms.
In the 1980s, an anti-American movement arose in South Korea as a result of the United States’ backing of the ruling regime at the time. Which is very uncommon as South Korea was (still is?!) blinded by everything American!
Since this is the month of the Gwangju uprising, I’d like to suggest a few movies to help you better comprehend what happened. Furthermore, it is our responsibility to commemorate the victims’ suffering and to honor the heroes.
It would be impossible for me to discuss this topic without including Human Acts (novel). Han Kang’s Human Acts presents a chilling image of the victims’ pain and bloodshed. It is a difficult read, but it is absolutely required. You can find a short review of the book here at Human Acts by Han Kang.
Please, write your book so that no one will ever be able to desecrate my brother’s memory again.
Lauren Dean has an astounding article about South Korean novels that include the backdrop of the 1980s. You should read the article 4 Novels About Love Set Amidst Violence in South Korea to expand your literary arsenal!
I would suggest these three films, which I believe accurately portray the tone of the uprising. These aren’t the kinds of movies you watch to unwind, but to never forget so that it never repeats.
1987: When the Day Comes
Taxi Driver
The Attorney
I’m fighting alone, every day. I fight with the hell that I survived. I fight with the fact of my own humanity. I fight with the idea that death is the only way of escaping this fact.
