Political Struggle and Democratization in Contemporary Korean Literature

Abstract

This study aimed to explore Korean literature that reflects political struggles and the democratization process, in conjunction with an examination of social contexts. The study focused on Korean novels published after 1948, which explicitly convey democratic processes.    A descriptive analytical approach was employed for data interpretation. Korean literature of this period reflects various social, political, and economic conditions, intertwined with the influence of “democracy,” which manifests distinctly in each era. As such, literary works emerge in tandem with political and social transformations and vividly illustrate the relationship between literary arts and society. This study selected seven original Korean novels, categorized by political developments since 1948, encompassing: (1) democracy under dictatorship (1948–1987), centering on novels depicting the April Revolution of 1960 and the 1980 Gwangju Uprising; (2) democracy after the June Democratic Struggle of 1987 and the subsequent transition (1987–2000), examining novels concerning the June Democratic Struggle; and (3) participatory democracy (2000–present), analyzing novels published after 2000.

          The results revealed that the factors supporting democratization in the literary texts included (1) a strong role of social movements or civil society and (2) the cultivation of civic consciousness and respect for human rights. Meanwhile, obstacles to democratization comprised (1) military intervention in politics, (2) ideological conflicts, and (3) violations of civil rights. Examination of novels from each period indicates that authors convey characters’ behaviors through dialogue, thoughts, and actions, reflecting democratic ways of life and highlighting respect for human rights, freedom, and equality. These elements underscore existing social inequalities and foster democratic awareness within Korean society.