A Journey Through Dark History
As a child growing up in Korea, I was often drawn to the stories and images contained in the pages of books, particularly encyclopedias. Amongst the pages filled with illustrations of nature, science, and history, there were also haunting images that left a lasting impression on my young mind. One image, in particular, was of a pregnant woman whose belly had been cruelly cut open, with the fetus inside—a stark representation of the brutal experiments conducted during the Japanese colonization of Korea.
Understanding the Past
This gut-wrenching display of inhumanity served as a painful reminder of the experiences faced by many Koreans. These experiments, often referred to in a callous manner as 'maruta'—a Japanese term meaning 'logs'—stripped away the humanity of countless individuals who suffered at the hands of their captors. As I learned more about this dark chapter in our history, my heart ached not only for the victims but also for the narratives lost over time. It made me realize the importance of understanding and recounting our history accurately and respectfully.
Gyeongseong Creature: Bridging the Past and Present
The recent Netflix series, Gyeongseong Creature, provides a fictionalized narrative rooted in such historical atrocities, casting a poignant light on the events of those times. While it may be a dramatization, it intertwines elements of horror with historical context, encouraging viewers to reflect on a past that should never be forgotten. If the Japanese had possessed the skills and knowledge during that era, perhaps they would indeed have created extraordinary creatures as depicted in this series.
I feel immense gratitude towards the Koreans who bravely fought against oppression, who strived to reclaim our heritage and correct the historical narrative so often distorted or omitted by those in power. Their struggle ensures that the stories of the past remain alive, sparking conversations about humanity, dignity, and the necessity of peace.
As we step into a future that’s fraught with its own conflicts, let us not carry the burdens of the past but rather learn from them. My sincere hope is for enduring peace, not just in Korea, but globally, especially in regions that continue to face war and strife.
