Historical Drama Stirs Reflection on Japan's Occupation Period, Evoking Mixed Reactions Worldwide

​Courtesy of Netflix

The Netflix original drama series "Gyeongseong Creature," which concluded on January 5, has garnered international attention, landing on Netflix's global top 10 list in the TV (Non-English) category for five consecutive weeks from December 18 to January 14.

The show, directed and written with the intent to depict life during a specific historical period, inadvertently brought awareness to the painful history of Japanese colonization in Korea. Set in 1945 during the Japanese colonial era, the drama incorporates metaphors to address the actions of Unit 731, a unit of the Imperial Japanese Army known for human experimentation during the 1940s. The plot weaves a narrative around the Japanese military conducting experiments to transform Koreans into monsters. 

▲ Courtesy of NetflixInternational viewers, particularly those from countries occupied by Japan during World War II, found the content resonating with their own historical experiences. Vietnamese American college student Cais Nguyen expressed gratitude for the opportunity to see the portrayal of Japanese imperialist actions that impacted the Vietnamese people during the colonial period.

While some international fans appreciated the historical perspective presented in "Gyeongseong Creature," there were critiques about the series not delving into the broader scope of Japanese military actions globally. Malaysian American student Farah Megat expressed a desire for a more comprehensive exploration, given the global platform and influential cast members.

Japanese viewers offered varying opinions. Some praised the drama for instigating empathy and serving as a tool for spreading historical lessons, while others criticized it for presenting a one-sided, negative image of Japan. Concerns were raised about the potential impact on perceptions and the portrayal of historical issues as fictional elements within the context of the drama.

Media experts acknowledged the complex nature of using dramas and films for historical education, noting that some Japanese viewers see it as fiction or anti-Japanese propaganda. The reception of "Gyeongseong Creature" underscores the dual role of such productions, capable of both fostering understanding and evoking mixed reactions concerning historical portrayals.

Sayart

Kang In sig, insig6622@naver.com