KOS2020 - Korean Society and Culture

Leader: Dr Young-A Cho

Offered

Not offered in 2007

Synopsis

This unit provides an introduction to traditional and modern Korean society and culture. It deals with key aspects of traditional Korea during the Choson period (1392-1910) of particular relevance to the understanding of the modern transformation of Korea. Over the past 100 years or so, Korea has passed through periods of social upheaval and foreign encroachment to its present status as a divided country. This subject deals with aspects of Korean society and culture since 1876, including intellectual history, the Japanese colonial experience, religion, rural-urban migration, gender issues, regionalism, the rise of the new middle class and cultural change.

Objectives

Upon successful completion of this unit students will be able to understand the main features of traditional Korean society and culture and major issues of modern Korea. The subject deals in the modern era primarily with South Korea although reference is also made to the modern transformation of North Korean society.

Assessment

Essay (2000 words): 50%
Examination (1 hour): 20%
Seminar project (1500 words): 30%

Contact hours

2 hours (1 x 1 hour lecture and 1 x 1 hour tutorial) per week

Prohibitions

KOS3020