PRESENTATION OUTLINE
Warm-up
Have you ever had an argument or a fight with someone? How did you resolve the conflict?
Objectives
- Examine the recent history of the Korean Penninsula.
- Examine life in modern day North Korea.
Background:
For more than fifty years, Japan was the owner of Korea. Koreans were second-class citizens, who had less rights than the Japanese. Japan used its time to take as many resources from the Korean people as possible.
Background
After World War II, Japan lost all of its colonies. These became free countries. Korea, however, became divided. The Soviet Union backed North Korea and the U.S. backed South Korea.
Background
Years of fighting ensued between the two nations with North Korea trying to conquer South Korea. Eventually, both sides agreed to an armistice (cease-fire) at the 38th parallel. Called the DMZ today, it is the most heavily fortified area in the world.
South Korea: The Asian Tiger
South Korea has built a very powerful economy based on manufacturing and trade.
North Korea: The Hermit Kingdom
North Korea has become the most secretive country in the world. There is no internet, computers or books allowed to most of its people. It also allows almost no visitors to enter the nation.
The Hermit Kingdom
Ruled by an aggressive dictatorship, the north has created a state-religion of worshipping its political leadership. Most people live in total poverty and fear of the government.
