South Korean videogame narratives: exploring historical trauma through interactive memory

Abstract

In contemporary times, video games have evolved from mere entertainment to forms of artistic expression, prompting increased academic scrutiny of their narratives and cultural significance. South Korea has emerged as a global hub for competitive e-sports, particularly within its vibrant Internet Café (PC Bang) culture; yet, the recognition of its video game industry’s significance, especially in the mobile sector, has only recently come to light. This research explores the interplay of hegemony and memory in East Asian video games. It examines how the dominance of the United States and Japan shapes the narratives and tropes found in triple-A titles. Additionally, it investigates how the economic rise of countries like South Korea empowers them to challenge prevailing discourses, especially regarding historical events such as the Japanese Colonial Rule. It analyses contemporary Korean independent video games that engage with painful national memories, examining how these games convey historical narratives and their significance in shaping collective memory. Additionally, the study explores the potential impact of these narratives on users, offering insights into the evolving landscape of video games as potential carriers of historical memory.