Artistic projects in South Korea honor historical memory and Koryo-saram identity

Various artistic initiatives in South Korea are being used to preserve historical memory and explore ethnic identity. In Jeju, the Tamra Artists Association is leading a project to commemorate the lost village of Mudeung-iwat, which was affected during the Jeju April 3 incident. Artists and residents are collaborating to cultivate millet, which will be used to brew traditional Gosori liquor to be offered at the 2027 April 3 memorial service.

In Gwangju, a special exhibition and talk show were held at the Koryo-saram Village to mark the fourth anniversary of renowned Koryo-saram artist Viktor Moon’s settlement in the area. The event highlighted the history of forced migration and the resilience of the Koryo-saram people through Moon’s distinctive visual language. The exhibition featured award-winning works and new pieces that reflect the struggles and hopes of the ethnic Korean diaspora.