The Controversial Oral Tradition Called “Waedeoksan” in Jindo, South Korea

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March 3, 2026

The Controversial Oral Tradition Called “Waedeoksan” in Jindo, South Korea
The Controversial Oral Tradition Called “Waedeoksan” in Jindo, South Korea

Volume 24

Abstract: In 2002, the director of the Jindo Cultural Center learned of Waedeoksan, a tomb site said to commemorate Japanese naval soldiers who died in the 1597 Battle of Myeongnyang. Oral tradition framed the burials as an act of virtue toward foreign dead and remained confined to Jindo for centuries. After the discovery of a genealogical reference, the story gained attention and was mobilized as a symbol of Korea–Japan reconciliation, prompting a visit from a Japanese prime minister. In 2022, however, a historian challenged its archaeological basis, sparking debate. This article traces competing narratives and shows how the tradition became sensitive.

Keywords: “Waedeoksan,” Local Oral Tradition, Tomb Site, Jindo, Korea-Japan Relations

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Volume 24

About the author:

Minjae Zoh is a Research Professor at the Seoul National University Asia Center. Her research focuses on heritage studies, particularly the politics of heritage and shifting paradigms of heritage governance. She is the author of The Impacts of Dictatorship on Heritage Management (Vernon Press, 2020) and co-editor of Asia’s Heritage Trends: Examining Asia’s Present through its Past (Routledge,2023).

Asia-Pacific Journal: Japan Focus is a peer-reviewed publication, providing critical analysis of the forces shaping the Asia-Pacific and the world.

    About the author:

    Minjae Zoh is a Research Professor at the Seoul National University Asia Center. Her research focuses on heritage studies, particularly the politics of heritage and shifting paradigms of heritage governance. She is the author of The Impacts of Dictatorship on Heritage Management (Vernon Press, 2020) and co-editor of Asia’s Heritage Trends: Examining Asia’s Present through its Past (Routledge,2023).