Migratory Pattern of Swallows Towards the Korean Demilitarized Zone
In the picturesque islands of Ganghwa, nestled by the Han River estuary, a unique cultural narrative unfolds. The barn swallow, or jebi, holds significant symbolism in Korean culture, embodying themes of longing and hope deeply rooted in local folklore, particularly influenced by the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ).
The jebi's connection to the estuary is profound, as this area near the DMZ represents a border region marked by natural beauty and political tension. The barn swallow's migration patterns across this region have become intertwined with stories of longing and resilience, making the jebi a poignant emblem within the cultural landscape shaped by the DMZ's presence.
Kim Young-ae, a second-generation sirhyangmin, resides on Gyodong island in Ganghwa County. Her family, like many others, fled Hwanghae province during the war and resettled in Ganghwa. Kim, who had a long and impressive career as a university professor, diplomat, and community organiser before retiring and returning to the estuary, believes that the estuary is the beginning of the history of Korea and its relations with the world.
The estuary served as an entry point for international trade and was protected against foreign powers by the military. However, the Treaty of Ganghwa with Japan, signed in 1876, began the decline of the estuary's fortifications. Japan made Korea a protectorate in 1905 and fully annexed it in 1910.
Despite these historical hardships, communities of Ganghwa became examples of how estuary residents, torn apart by war, could come together again. The years following the division of Korea were marked by violent conflicts in Ganghwa, including civilian massacres during the Korean War. Yet, despite shared pain, the people of Ganghwa found unity and resilience.
Kim believes that the estuary absorbed the blood and tears to allow life to continue despite the unspeakable colonial and wartime atrocities that occurred there. She considers the estuary as a symbol of hope and resilience, a place where life continues to flourish amidst adversity.
The jebi, like the sirhyangmin, holds a deep symbolic meaning for Kim. She explains that an estuary is where saltwater and freshwater meet, and the water is purified so it can flow as freshwater into the country. Kim believes that the sirhyangmin, like the jebi, can return to rest and remember with others, but cannot cross the estuary. This could be seen as a symbol of the longing for reunification, a desire that transcends generations.
Today, the islands of Ganghwa are sparsely populated and heavily dependent on agriculture. Yet, the cultural significance of the jebi and the estuary remains undiminished. The jebi's return each spring serves as a reminder of hope, resilience, and the enduring spirit of the people of Ganghwa.
Kim's meeting with the author at a pro-democracy rally in Seoul felt like fate. She believes that the estuary, with its rich history and cultural significance, continues to play a vital role in shaping the narrative of Korea and its people. The jebi, the estuary, and the sirhyangmin—these symbols of hope and resilience continue to inspire and unite, serving as a testament to the indomitable spirit of the Korean people.
- In the context of Kim Young-ae's perspective, the barn swallow (jebi) and the estuary can be compared to the interdisciplinary fields of environmental science and education and self-development, as both symbolize healing, unity, and the enduring spirit of resilience, offering lessons on coexistence between nature and humanity, and personal growth in the face of adversity.
- As a point of interest for students studying space and astronomy, the islands of Ganghwa, situated near the Han River estuary, reflect the concept of a border region marked by natural beauty and political tension on a smaller scale, much like the outer space's celestial bodies that serve as dividing lines between planets, yet also encapsulate the mysteries and wonders of the cosmos, symbolizing the potential for discovery and unity regardless of boundaries.
