Special Exhibitions
Past ExhibitionGeoje, Across Time and Space
- Period2016-12-06 ~ 2017-03-05
- PlaceSpecial Exhibition Gallery
- Organizer
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“Geoje, Across Time and Space.”
Korea`s second largest island, Geoje Island
When you stand gazing at Geoje Island from a far distance, its long and curved coastline looks like a Korean woman wearing a sheer skirt folded neatly. She sits calmly contemplating the view.
From the Goryeo Dynasty to the end of the Joseon Dynasty, a period lasting some 800 years, Geoje was an isolated island that had been used as a prison for aggrieved exiles. Even though Geoje was degraded as an island as a remote site of exile for disgraced kings, royalty and bureaucrats, persecuted intellectuals banished there exerted cultural and literary influences and their presence became a catalyst for Geoje’s unique culture.
Geographically close to Tsushima Island, Geoje was a hub for marine commerce locked in dispute with Japan and therefore constantly fought attack and plundering as a marginal island.
Not only was Geoje devastated under Japanese colonial rule, but it also was a tragic island housing prisoners of war during the Korean War.
After many periods of struggle, Geoje has now become a place with a powerful offshore and shipbuilding industry. Moreover, Geoga Bridge connecting Busan to Geoje Island has become a landmark symbolizing a new identity for Geoje Island.
Untouched by compassion
Nor moved by joy or anger
Whipped down by rain and wind
…
Dreaming, but never singing
Though cleaved in two,
I shall become a silent rock.
As in the poem “The Rock” by Yu Chi-hwan (pen name, ‘Cheongma’, or Blue Horse; 1908-1967) Geoje at times exposes its wild and harsh inner side, but it also often shows its innate, unflinching identity, and the depths of its unique culture.
This winter, we invite you to Geoje, an island of fascinating history, amazing stories and stunning nature. We look forward to welcoming you. Connect with history in surprising and memorable ways.
Hak Jong Im
Director, Gimhae National Museum
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공공누리 4유형: 출처 표시 + 상업적 이용금지 + 변경금지