This study aims to explore the peaceful characteristics and values inherent in the
literature of the region north of Daegwallyeong in Gangwon Province, known as "Yeongbuk
literature." Particularly, it analyzes how the reality of separation (diaspora...
This study aims to explore the peaceful characteristics and values inherent in the
literature of the region north of Daegwallyeong in Gangwon Province, known as "Yeongbuk
literature." Particularly, it analyzes how the reality of separation (diaspora) is manifested in
literary works, and how this manifestation forms a peaceful imagination, focusing on the
literary works of Lee Seong-seon, Yoon Hong-ryeol, and Lee Ban. The research applies
peace studies perspectives, categorizing these writers' approaches as "ecological peace,"
"humanistic peace," and "religious peace" respectively, drawing on Johan Galtung's concepts
of positive and negative peace.
Yeongbuk literature strongly reflects the living conditions of local residents and
displaced people who experienced the division between North and South Korea, based on
the regional specificity of being at the frontline of division. The symbolic locations of
Cheongho-dong(Abai Village) and the cable ferry "Gaetbae" serve as powerful literary
motifs representing division. Poet Lee Seong-seon transforms his experience as a separated
family member into ecological harmony, portraying the pain of separation and possibilities- 144
of regeneration through nature imagery like Mount Seorak and the East Sea. In Yoon
Hong-ryeol's works, separation intensifies beyond spatial division into fundamental isolation
and emotions of loss, with his educator's perspective bringing ethical dimensions to war
victims' portrayal. Lee Ban's literature depicts existential pain through collapsed families
and communities, while utilizing religious frameworks to explore reconciliation and
salvation.
In Yeongbuk literature, the reality of separation transcends external division or
victimhood narratives. The three writers demonstrate literary patterns that move toward
community ethics, understanding of others, and peace aspirations by transforming
socio-historical trauma into deep internal pain, identity crisis, and relationship disconnection.
Their works employ distinctive narrative strategies and symbolic imagery that lead readers
to empathize with separation pain while imagining possibilities for relationship restoration
and peaceful coexistence. This literature simultaneously serves as testimony to historical
wounds and provides pathways to healing through community rebuilding.
In conclusion, the peaceful value of Yeongbuk literature lies not simply in representing
separation reality, but in elevating it to universal peaceful values through internalization
and contemplation. These literary works contribute to community recovery by transforming
trauma into healing through artistic expression. This suggests that literature functions as a
unique practice that heals disconnection and loss, expanding ethical imagination toward
peace despite emerging from conflict zones. Yeongbuk literature thus offers valuable
insights into how artistic expression can contribute to peace-building in divided societies.