Name and Ethnic Identity: Experiences of Korean Women in Japan

Abstract

Koreans living in Japan, so-called Zainichi Koreans, were historically forced to use Japanese names during the annexation (1910–45) and have been using them until today. While most Zainichi Koreans use Japanese names in public, some use Korean names all the time or only when they associate with fellow Zainichi Koreans. Zainichi Korean women have been marginalized not only by the dominant group, the ethnic Japanese, but also by their own group. This paper explores experiences of Zainichi Korean women and examines how using Japanese or Korean names has impacted their identity. My research design utilized qualitative interviews, and was particularly inspired by feminist oral history. This study showed the need to be conscious about keeping harmony and not to stand out, especially when they use Korean names. At the same time, use of Korean names can foster their ethnic identity and help construction of intercultural identity.