THE REPRESENTATION OF NORTH KOREA IN THE SOUTH KOREAN SERIES. CRASH LANDING ON YOU
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Abstract
Introduction: Historically, South Korean series or films have consistently portrayed North Korea as an authoritarian state and an antagonist in their narratives. However, recent productions have introduced a novel depiction of North Korean life, as evident in the success of the series Crash Landing on You, which presents the lifestyle of North Koreans through a more humanized and realistic lens. Therefore, this study has the Objective: To examine the representation of North Korea in the South Korean series Crash Landing on You by employing textual analysis through narrative elements, including plot, characters, setting, dialogue, and point of view. Method: This study utilizes qualitative data analysis by applying textual analysis through narrative components plot, characters, setting, dialogue, and point of view across all 16 episodes of Crash Landing on You to comprehend the South Korean perspective toward North Korea as depicted in the series. Results: The representation of North Korea in the South Korean series Crash Landing on You consists of 6 themes: 1) A representation of technological backwardness 2) A representation of a territory defined by the deprivation of rights and liberties 3) A representation of social structures and class hierarchies 4) A representation of the 38th parallel as a boundary between a life of free will and a life devoid of freedom 5) A representation of favorable diplomatic relations between North Korea and Switzerland, and 6) A representation of hope and national reunification. Furthermore, the portrayal of North Korea in this South Korean series changes the image of North Korea from an enemy to viewing North Korean citizens through a dimension of humanity. Conclusion: The series Crash Landing on You has reconstructed the representation of North Korea, changing the perspective from an enemy suffering from the deprivation of rights to giving value to the dimension of humanity. This reflects the significant implication that South Korean media is functioning as a cultural mouthpiece on behalf of the North Korean people to communicate their yearning for democracy, freedom, and a better quality of life.
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