Emphasis/Category: Locating Asias (Nation, Culture, and Diaspora)
This course surveys social, cultural, and political aspects of contemporary Korea.  We will examine and interpret some of the key cultural institutions and social changes including family and gender relationships, the impact of Korean War and national division, rapid industrialization and its legacies, social movement, labor and marriage migration, and culture industry.  We will also explore the life and society of North Korea and issues of North Korean refugees in South Korea. As part of class activities, we will follow closely some of the current events and interpret them considering what we learn in class for the purpose of enhancing the students’ critical skills to analyze Korean society. Course materials include scholarly articles, films, and literature.  No prerequisites required.
Days: MO WE  09:00-09:50 AM