Abstract:

This presentation examines narratives, memories, and life experiences of ethnic Koreans (koryo saram) who were forcibly relocated to Kazakhstan in the 1930s and their descendants. Through analysis of their stories alongside declassified archival documents, we address the question: How have ethnic Koreans integrated into Kazakhstani society since their deportation from Far East Russia 86 years ago? Drawing from a project focused on archival documents and life histories, we present interview results collected between 2017 and 2023 with 36 participants, bridging the gap between official records and lived experiences.

Kazakhstan, historically a destination for “ethnic repressions,” is now a diverse nation with over 130 ethnicities and dominant religions of Islam and Christianity. This diversity poses challenges to territorial unity, particularly in the current geopolitical landscape. While earlier Korean migration to Russia was voluntary, the subsequent relocation to Central Asian countries, including Kazakhstan, was involuntary. In the 1930s, the forced movement of ethnic minorities, viewed as a security threat by the Soviet state, shaped the demographic landscape of Kazakhstan. Despite the collapse of the USSR and subsequent migrations, according to the Foreign Ministry of Republic of Korea, the number of ethnic Koreans in Kazakhstan remained stable – at 109,923 as of 2021, emphasizing their enduring presence in the region. However, with few survivors of the forced relocation era remaining, there is a narrowing window of opportunity to reconcile archival records with living memory.

Our analysis considers questions of social status, interethnic relationships, and language dynamics among the koryo saram community in Kazakhstan. By examining historical documents and contemporary narratives, we gain insights into the complex process of integration and identity formation within a polyethnic society. This presentation highlights the importance of preserving and understanding the experiences of ethnic minorities in Kazakhstan, shedding light on their contributions to the nation’s diverse cultural tapestry and the ongoing challenges of reconciliation between past traumas and present realities.