Understanding The Korean Culture through Film Essay Example

rapid modernization, takes center stage. The protagonist is depicted as a man who adheres steadfastly to tradition and struggles to adapt to modernism. He tenaciously clings to, preserves, and passes down his cultural heritage to future generations. Despite the surrounding transformations, he remains unwavering in his commitment to his culture and sense of self.

Lee Chung-joon's story is about a family of three: Youbong, a pansori singer, and his two children, Dong-ho and Songwha, who were adopted. Despite their poverty, they strive to make a living in a modern society (Kim ; James, p.34). The family travels through the countryside to enhance their musical skills while also preserving their culture in a rapidly changing society. Unlike other American road movies, their goal is not to run away from home but to find a new home for their family. Throughout the story, we witness Youbong training his children in the ancient art of music.

The daughter and the son both received training in different musical disciplines - the daughter in vocals and the son in drumming. However, during this time, the demand for performers like them decreased due to the influence of American culture. The son, facing severe poverty conditions, ultimately decided to run away from home. Eventually, the sister managed to reunite with her brother who had fled. The film serves as a depiction of how the traditional Korean culture was being eroded by the process of modernization occurring in the country. By the early 1990s, when the film was released, locally produced Korean films were experiencing a rapid decline in popularity.

The declining interest in local films was due to people having access to local television shows,

sports programs, and fashion programs. This made them find local movies uninteresting (Kim ; James, p.41). The film portrays the clash between traditional practices and modernization in society. It also shows how the adoption of foreign culture can lead to increased poverty in rural areas as demand for local products falls. Additionally, it highlights the disconnect between modern and traditional ways of life.

At the conclusion of the movie, the brother and sister come together but the film does not explicitly depict how their different upbringings and beliefs on modernity and tradition eventually reconcile. Sopyonje does not offer a solution to the erosion of culture in the country, but it serves as a reminder to viewers of their cultural identity, encouraging them to take action and revitalize local Korean culture (Kim, p.135). Viewers are left with a choice: to completely disregard their roots or incorporate local culture into their daily lives. The film showcases the value of their culture through its musical performances. This widely enjoyed film, centered around the art of pansori, successfully kindles curiosity in people to explore the traditional Korean singing style.

The term 'Sopyonje Syndrome' emerged as a result of this, causing a sensation in the media. People of all ages eagerly queued up to see the film, as it seemed to tap into a profound feeling of connection that was lacking in many other movies in the country. The movie explores the struggle of preserving traditional Korean culture in a contemporary society. By utilizing flashbacks, it allows viewers to glimpse both the past and present circumstances.

The text discusses how the Korean culture has dramatically transformed into a modern one. Many

Koreans who watched the film expressed that no other film had showcased their native culture like this one (Kim, p.141). Youbong, amidst the modern world, makes an effort to remind his family of their roots through the traditional art form of 'pansori' and highlights that people lose their identity when they solely focus on following current trends. The story reflects the societal changes in Korea, where modernization from the West is embraced with warmth.

The film showcases the rapid adoption of new cultures and ways of doing things through interactions with foreigners, resulting in the integration of new socioeconomic practices and customs from westernized nations. However, this trend poses a significant risk of disconnecting from traditional customs that define South Korea's identity. By incorporating the emotive and captivating Korean musical art form called 'pansori,' the film deeply immerses viewers in the storyline. One notable emotional peak occurs when Songhwa mourns her loss and channels her grief into mastering the art, ensuring that she retains at least this aspect of her heritage.

The film concludes by discussing the concept of "han," which refers to the profound sorrow that arises from significant loss and helplessness. Youbong and his children express their grief and sadness, as they have made numerous sacrifices for their art but have not achieved financial success (Kim, p.145). They perceive life as harsh and feel that they have been treated unfairly. "Han" is a term frequently seen in Korean stories, particularly those centered on loss, sadness, and separation. Throughout the film, this concept of "han" is illustrated, reflecting the reality of life in Korea. The movie depicts the hardships faced by the three actors

when they lose their jobs due to a decline in local music demand.

The film delves deeper into the events in Korea, where individuals forsake their own culture and enthusiastically adopt a new one. Amidst the sorrow, they discover fleeting solace in singing “Arirang” together. Sopyonje garners widespread interest due to its unique production qualities. Im's direction is particularly captivating, complemented by exceptional acting performances and musical talents.

The film portrays the authentic narrative of the Korean people and the contemporary events at the time of its storytelling (Kim, p.148). Over two decades have elapsed since the film's release, and numerous changes have transpired that have rendered the film unrecognizable or scarcely resembling the present-day world. Nonetheless, despite being more than ten years old, the film remains pertinent, reflecting the era it was created and unveiled. It showcases that as Korea moves forward into the future, it will inevitably encounter setbacks that must be endured, given life's ever-changing nature.

Additionally, it is impossible to avoid losses even with extensive effort and sacrifice. This idea is exemplified by the family's portrayal of "han" in the story. The film is unique in its ability to provide a better understanding of past Korean culture. Through this film, Korean viewers now have the chance to revive their own cultural heritage.

The following text provides the list of works cited, including the authors and their respective publications:

Work Cited

• Kim, Kyung Hyun. The Remasculinization of Korean Cinema. Durham: Duke University Press, (2004): pp.134-156
• Kim, Kyung Hyun and David E James. Im Kwon-Taek. Detroit: Wayne State University Press, (2002): pp

19-45