South Korean President Lee Jae-myung Faces Criticism Over Reference to Disputed Historical Text
A recent statement by South Korean President Lee Jae-myung referencing the controversial historical document Hwandan Gogi has ignited a political firestorm, prompting a clarification from the Presidential Office and raising questions about the administration’s approach to historical interpretation.
President Lee’s remarks, made during a briefing from the Northeast Asian History Foundation on November 12th, centered on the study of ancient Korean history. He questioned why researchers who examine Hwandan Gogi are often labeled with the derogatory term “Hwanpa,” and asked if the document itself was considered legitimate. This sparked immediate controversy,with critics accusing the President of lending credence to a text widely dismissed by the historical community as a fabrication.
The Presidential Office swiftly responded on November 14th, issuing a press notice stating that President Lee’s comments “did not constitute agreement with this claim or an order to research or review it.” A spokesperson, Kim Nam-joon, further explained that the President’s intention was to emphasize the importance of having a clear position on contentious historical issues. “If there is an ongoing controversy, it should be addressed, and the purpose of studying history is that it is indeed only appropriate to have one’s own position,” Kim stated.
Hwandan Gogi, written in 1911 by Gye yeon-su, details the history of the ancient Korean kingdom of Gojoseon and the legendary founder Dangun. While largely considered a forgery by mainstream historians, it maintains a following among those who believe it represents authentic historical accounts.
The controversy extends beyond the document itself, touching on broader debates about historical narratives and political ideology. According to reports, President Lee appeared to draw a parallel between the scrutiny faced by Hwandan Gogi and the criticism leveled against historical interpretations perceived as sympathetic to Japan. Kim Nam-joon elaborated on this point, stating that the President was questioning the basis of claims regarding pro-Japanese collaboration, the comfort women issue, and territorial disputes over Dokdo. “I was asking from what perspective and position the view of history is being researched and established, and whether a proper view of history has been established,” he said.
The timing of the exchange is also significant, as the Chairman of the Northeast Asian History Foundation, Park Ji-hyang, was appointed during the administration of President Yoon Seok-yeol and is known for her “New Right” historical views. Some observers suggest President Lee’s reference to hwandan Gogi was a deliberate attempt to critique Park’s perspective and broader conservative historical narratives. In a 2019 interview with Monthly Chosun, Park reportedly expressed a nuanced view on figures accused of pro-japanese collaboration, a position that drew criticism upon her appointment.
However, the President’s Office maintains that a direct connection between his remarks and Park’s background is difficult to infer. When pressed for clarification, Kim Nam-joon reiterated the importance of addressing historical controversies and establishing clear positions. “If there is a controversy that is currently taking place, it should be clearly addressed. In particular, I think it is indeed right for a place that studies historical views to have a clear position on it,” he emphasized.
the incident underscores the sensitivity surrounding historical interpretation in South Korea and the potential for political ramifications when historical narratives become intertwined with contemporary debates. the ongoing discussion h
