‘The myth of the empty exile’: A Comparative Exploration into Ancient Biblical Exile and Modern Korean Exile

Abstract

The objective of this study is to undertake a comparative examination of two exilic contexts—ancient Judah under the Neo-Babylonian Empire and modern Korea under the Japanese occupation. We will examine issues related to ‘population change’ and ‘economic impact’ in the context of the hegemony of the colonizing empire. First, we will review the recent scholarly debates concerning Judean history during the Babylonian exilic era. Next, we will examine the historical records and interpretative issues concerning modern Korea during the Japanese occupation era. Finally, the observations and interpretive implications that arise from this comparative study will be explored. This study will emphasize that many intangible factors point to a likelihood of turmoil and hardship for the majority of the people, both those living under occupation in Judah and those exiled to Babylon, despite the evidence indicating that life continued uninterrupted after the events of 587 BCE.