해방기 한국-필리핀 국제 교류와 인터-아시아의 신생(新生) -정인섭･이영린의 여행 텍스트 간 비교를 중심으로

Abstract

This paper aims to analyze Korean-Philippine International Exchange by Jung In-sub (1947) and Lee Young-lin (1948) conducted shortly after Korea’s liberation and related travel texts, including travelogues, critiques, and newspaper articles. Through this analysis, it seeks to review the reflective thinking and emotions on postcolonial ethics and war responsibilities that emerged after the Pacific War. Additionally, the paper explores the networks between emerging independent Asian nations formed alongside U.S. influence after the collapse of the imperialist order. The focus of this study is twofold: First, it examines how Koreans in the post-liberation era attempted to establish relations with (newly) independent countries such as the Philippines, Taiwan, and Thailand, which were battlegrounds during the Pacific War. This process involved acknowledging their responsibility as war aggressors and constructing the landscape of Inter-Asia, distinct from the Greater East Asia Co-Prosperity Sphere. Second, the paper highlights the practices of international exchange in administration, culture and arts, education, and religion demonstrated by Koreans during this period. It sheds new light on the networks formed with local communities in various Asia-Pacific countries. The significance of this study lies in tracing the collaboration and cooperation among the emerging nations’ citizen that sought to address the regional conflicts caused by the Pacific War and “the international situation of the U.S.-Soviet Cold War.” It also aims to expand the scope of Korean studies towards the networks with Asia-Pacific countries, which were peripheral to the imperialist and Cold War orders. Furthermore, the attitudes of these citizens, who contemplated the past and future within the multilateral networks with Asia-Pacific countries, provide relevant insights for contemporary South Korea, which focuses on global cooperation.