A Twisted Self-Portrait: South Koreans, Korean-Chinese and Internal Colonialism

The Chosunjok moved to the northeastern region of China from Korea, maintaining their language, culture and an autonomous ethnic community. After the establishment of diplomatic relations between South Korea and China, the number of Chosunjok traveling to South Korea who identify themselves both as citizens of the People’s Republic of China and as ethnic Koreans increased tremendously. They began to work in simple labor positions and contributed to the Korean economy. Although compatriots, the Chosunjok have experienced policy and economic discrimination, and have also been represented in a negative light in recent media. This phenomenon is similar to that of internal colonialism, and it is necessary to win over the Chosunjok at the policy and cultural level, integrating them as Korean people.