1910년대 인천항 축항 사업과 식민자 사회 - ‘동양유일’ 이중갑문식 독의 준공 -

Abstract

This article examines characteristics of colonial cities of Korea by studying on ‘Jinsen’ dock construction. Incheon, a harbor city located near the capital city Seoul of Korea has historic background as a colonial city. Colonial cities around the world has been categorized to clarify characteristics of city construction. Despite of categorization, there are diverse patterns of colonial cities. Unlike most colonial cities ruled by western empires, colonial cities in Korea transplanted by imperial Japan have different characteristics. Most of all, settler’s community was formed before colonial power arrives. Korean peninsula was comparatively easy to approach for Japanese including grass roots class due to geographical condition. Therefore, it would not be sufficient to examine construction process of colonial cities by plans of authorities. In this point of view, this article follows public opinions and consensus of Japanese settler’s community regarding coastal reclamation and harbor construction from the late 19th century to 1910’s. And also describes how colonial space changed during this period. During the protectorate period, Japanese settlers discussed on harbor construction to overcome difference between high and low tide. They expressed worries about the future of the harbor after railway openings. To gain positive response from authorities, settler’s community developed logic using nationalistic rhetoric. Meanwhile, authorities also recognized geographical importance of ‘Jinsen’ as a connecting port between mainland and Dairen. These combined factors influenced ‘Jinsen’ dock construction. After the announcement of construction plan, Japanese settlers considering permanent residence increased. Dock of dual lock gate system was introduced to overcome tide difference. Had never been attempted in Eastern countries, ‘Only one in the Orient’ phrase was used constantly to inform the ‘Jinsen’ dock. Consequently, this phrase became a symbolic word for the city throughout colonial period. During 1910’s, Korean population mostly blue workers moved into eastern part of the city and it functioned as labor supplying zone. In conclusion, Japanese settlers played a significant role in harbor construction. Settlers discussed on harbor construction before colonial power established and their petition and lobby subsequently influenced plans of colonial authorities. This characteristic is an important factor to study colonial cities of Korea and Incheon harbor construction is one of cases. Key words : colonial city, Japanese settler, Jinsen dock, Incheon, settler colonialism