A Study on Brotherhood-Perception for Korea through the Oral Life Narratives of Korean War Veterans in Turkey

Abstract

This study was conducted to examine the full extent of the brotherhood perception of Korea, which has expanded to the Turkish general public based on the experiences of Turkish Korean War veterans. To this end, the traits of the Korean perception were closely examined based on the data collected through the research on the oral life story of veterans conducted from 2018 to 2022. As a result, we established that Korea was initially an unknown place to veterans and then transformed into an object that needs protection. This imparted a new meaning of saviors for the veterans. Finally, after the war, they identified Korea as a companion, then a brother for life, who sublimated their horrific war experience into a noble sacrifice. As the brotherhood perception through this process spread throughout Turkey, centered on veterans and their acquaintances, it formed the brotherhood perception as we know it. By confirming the reality of the brotherhood perception of Korea through oral life stories of Turkish veterans, we can pave the way to maintain and develop future bilateral relations. In conclusion, it is necessary to maintain and strengthen the foundation of the friendship bonds between the two countries and continue the companionship as eternal brothers by documenting and sharing the experiences of veterans who are still alive as soon as possible.