Plays of Colonial Korea

This collection highlights the plays of Se-Dok Ham, a significant figure in Korea's colonial literature, reflecting on his life and struggles.

In Plays of Colonial Korea, Se-Dok Ham presents a vivid portrayal of the cultural and political landscape during the Japanese occupation of Korea. This period was marked by a clash of traditional Korean values and the influx of Western ideas, as young intellectuals sought to modernize their homeland. Ham, a key figure in this movement, used his plays as a medium to challenge the status quo and advocate for enlightenment through the arts, philosophy, and technology. His works reflect the struggles and aspirations of a generation yearning for change amidst oppression.

The narrative takes a poignant turn with the conclusion of World War II, as Ham makes the controversial decision to align himself with North Korea. This choice led to his blacklisting in South Korea for over four decades, where any discussion of his works was suppressed. The ban on his plays and the silence surrounding his life illustrate the broader tensions within Korean society during this tumultuous time. It wasn't until 1988, just before the Summer Olympic Games in Seoul, that Ham's contributions were finally acknowledged, allowing for a reevaluation of his artistic legacy.

Plays of Colonial Korea serves as a crucial text for understanding Korea's colonial literature and the complexities of national identity. This first volume of Ham's plays translated into English opens the door for a global audience to engage with his work, fostering a renewed interest in the historical context and cultural significance of his contributions to Korean literature.