재조일본인 아오야기 쓰나타로[靑柳綱太郞]의 ‘신일본(조선)’ 건설론

Abstract

This paper examines the ideological background of Aoyagi Tsunatarō’ s view of Joseon and what he thought was most important in building the “New Japan” in Joseon. And this paper inquires in to the theory of immigrant colonization and the realization of “Great Japanism” that was proposed to plan for its practice. First, Aoyagi gained an understanding of Joseon as he was born in Saga Prefecture, which was historically linked with Joseon, while he grew up in the atmosphere of the theory of conquering Korea following the Meiji Restoration. Ideologically influenced by Inoue in the Tetsugakukan, he moved to Joseon and distorted the history of Joseon while working for the Residency-General. Second, Aoyagi thought that assimilation was crucial to rule Joseon. As a way to achieve this he regarded immigrant colonization as a shortcut. Regarding assimilation, he deemed that not only political assimilation but economic and social assimilation should be realized by moving Japanese to Joseon. He considered immigrant assimilation as a way of spreading the spirit of Yamato to the world. Third, the immigrant assimilation of Japan did not intend to conquer Joseon. The “New Japan” exploited by moving Japanese to Joseon would become the financial base for extending the profit margin of Japan. He regarded making Joseon the base for the establishment of expansionism, which was the national policy of Japan and the most urgent priority in gaining Japan’s supremacy in Asia. Fourth, Aoyagi suggested establishing fishing villages in Jeju and conducting agricultural management so that Japan’ s surplus population could move to those villages. He chose the Yeongsan River, the Geum River, and the Nakdong River basins as promising areas and insisted upon building the Honam Railway, opening Seomjin Port, and abolishing tariffs as ways of exploiting sources of wealth. Fifth, Aoyagi emphasized that Gyeongseong had obtained the qualification for further development, estimating the economic value of the place. He urged that Japanese celebrities be sent to the capital, and noted the opening of railway routes, the connection of waterways between the Han River and the Imjin River, and the connections to Shandong, China, and that area’s roles as a center of trade and commerce.