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The May 18 Gwangju Democratic Uprising
- GenresNonfiction
158 pages, Paperback
First published August 1, 2015
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Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews
January 18, 2025
I'm not absolutely certain that this is the correct book as the text I picked up from the Gwangju Uprising museum is slightly longer and has no author marked. However, as it is printed and distributed by the same company, place and has the same title I shall review it as if it is.
This was an excellent and comprehensive detailing of the tragic Gwangju Massacre of May 18th. Recounting political components that led the tragedy, alongside extensive detailing of movements and conversations during - this book gave a fantastic overview of how it started, continued and ended - with as much information as it could. I also appreciated that it held the US accountable for its actions within this tragic incident - often their responsibilities in events like these can be glossed over. I felt that the information was well explained and accessible, and paired with being in the archives, seeing the exhibits, photographs, and also short film produced by the museum really enabled a deep understanding of the event. Despite the devastating tragedy, I can't help but draw such inspiration and pride for those individuals who fought with their lives to protect democracy and fight for what is right. Across the world, students have shown consistent dedication to a better society and Gwangju is no different. I think reading this also in the aftermath of 윤석열's enactment of martial law makes it all the more profound. To think the amount of suffering and bloodshed that happened here could've even possibly have been replicated had it not been for the Korean's people unwavering commitment to democracy makes reflecting on the Gwangju masscare even more important.
One thing I would've liked to have seen, however, would've been the inclusion of a more human-side to the tragedy. As much as it was informative, this book was a little clinical and I think interviews or excerpts from members of the C.A./general civilians would breathe a little life into the text.
Thank you very much to the Gwangju Archives for this free book and for all the efforts to ensure this tragedy is not forgotten.
This was an excellent and comprehensive detailing of the tragic Gwangju Massacre of May 18th. Recounting political components that led the tragedy, alongside extensive detailing of movements and conversations during - this book gave a fantastic overview of how it started, continued and ended - with as much information as it could. I also appreciated that it held the US accountable for its actions within this tragic incident - often their responsibilities in events like these can be glossed over. I felt that the information was well explained and accessible, and paired with being in the archives, seeing the exhibits, photographs, and also short film produced by the museum really enabled a deep understanding of the event. Despite the devastating tragedy, I can't help but draw such inspiration and pride for those individuals who fought with their lives to protect democracy and fight for what is right. Across the world, students have shown consistent dedication to a better society and Gwangju is no different. I think reading this also in the aftermath of 윤석열's enactment of martial law makes it all the more profound. To think the amount of suffering and bloodshed that happened here could've even possibly have been replicated had it not been for the Korean's people unwavering commitment to democracy makes reflecting on the Gwangju masscare even more important.
One thing I would've liked to have seen, however, would've been the inclusion of a more human-side to the tragedy. As much as it was informative, this book was a little clinical and I think interviews or excerpts from members of the C.A./general civilians would breathe a little life into the text.
Thank you very much to the Gwangju Archives for this free book and for all the efforts to ensure this tragedy is not forgotten.
February 28, 2024
this was a difficult book to rate. on one hand, it was a deeply comprehensive overview of the events leading up to the Gwangju Uprising and the actual uprising itself. the timeline of the events at the end of the book was definitely interesting and useful, and I overall learned a good amount.
on the other hand, for a free book given out at the Gwangju Uprising museums, it definitely expected you to know more about the background than I expected. the beginning of the book involving the events leading up to the uprising were difficult to follow, and while the book got easier over time, for someone who went to both museums… it should’ve been a lot easier.
overall, if you go to the Gwangju Uprising museum and pick it up, you should definitely give it a read but be braced for some confusion/reference google consistently, but there’s probably easier to understand books on the topic if that’s what you’re looking for.
on the other hand, for a free book given out at the Gwangju Uprising museums, it definitely expected you to know more about the background than I expected. the beginning of the book involving the events leading up to the uprising were difficult to follow, and while the book got easier over time, for someone who went to both museums… it should’ve been a lot easier.
overall, if you go to the Gwangju Uprising museum and pick it up, you should definitely give it a read but be braced for some confusion/reference google consistently, but there’s probably easier to understand books on the topic if that’s what you’re looking for.
Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews