Beyond Hallyu (Korean Wave): Commemorating the 76th Anniversary of the Jeju April 3rd Incident and Exploring Its Collective Trauma
A community commemoration and student essay contest on memory, justice, and collective trauma
Hallyu, the Korean Wave, is a global phenomenon that reflects worldwide appreciation for Korean culture, including film, K-pop, cuisine, and traditional arts and crafts. Hallyu can also serve as a doorway to deeper layers of Korean history, including the Jeju April 3 Incident.
What is the Jeju April 3 Incident, and why must we know?
The Jeju April 3 Incident (1947–1954) unfolded during a volatile period in Korean history, marked by social unrest and conflict in the aftermath of World War II and Korea’s liberation from Japanese colonial rule. The incident resulted in the deaths of more than 30,000 civilians and left a lasting scar on Korean society.
The Jeju April 3 Incident is widely understood as a major instance of collective trauma in South Korea, a profound psychological wound shared by a community that has endured mass violence. It is also increasingly studied by scholars worldwide as a case that illuminates the early Cold War dynamics in Northeast Asia. Some interpretations argue that the Jeju April 3 Incident should be understood as a critical precursor to the later escalation on the Korean Peninsula, including the Korean War, in which approximately 36,000 American soldiers were killed.
Community Commemoration Event
Come hear the stories of victims’ families and descendants living in our community. Join us in commemorating the 76th anniversary of the Jeju April 3 Incident. This solemn and educational gathering offers an opportunity to learn about the incident’s historical significance, honor those affected, and reflect on the importance of empathy, remembrance, and healing in the aftermath of collective trauma.
The event is family-friendly and includes arts and crafts activities designed to help participants connect with the history and emotional impact of Jeju April 3.
Date and Time: April 27, 5:00 p.m.
Location: Boston Korean Church in Brookline (32 Harvard Ave)
Admission: Free (dinner provided)
High School Essay Contest: Memory and Justice
We also invite high school students to participate in an essay contest reflecting on their experience at the event. All participants will receive a special memento, and outstanding essays will be awarded scholarships. Selected essays may also be considered for publication in the Walden Korea International Journal, offering students an opportunity to share their work with a broader audience and contribute to public dialogue on Korean history and memory.
Submission Deadline: May 30
Eligibility: High school students
Submission Process: Students who attend the event will receive a submission link by email.
Essay Guidelines
Your essay should address the following areas:
Unique Reflection (required)
Reflect on your experience at the event and what you learned about the Jeju April 3 Incident.
Collective Trauma Impact
Discuss the impacts of collective trauma, using academic research to support your analysis.
Future Implications
Consider how the Jeju April 3 Incident continues to shape society today, including attitudes and reconciliation efforts.
Formatting Requirements
Length: 1,000–2,000 words, in English
Font: 12-point Times New Roman
Spacing: Double-spaced
For questions, please contact: info@waldenkorea.org