A Study on the Photobooks of Joseon in the 1920s

A 1922 photobook, 'Trip in Chosen,' offers a unique visual record of Joseon (Korea) during the early Japanese colonial period, capturing Western-style infrastructure like hotels and modern leisure activities alongside historic sites such as Bulguksa Temple. Unlike official government publications, this album was issued by a private railway company, reflecting its promotional intent for tourism. Its bilingual (Japanese/English) design targeted both Western audiences and Japanese readers, serving as a tool to showcase colonial achievements. The study highlights the photobook’s role in documenting cultural landmarks while emphasizing its propagandistic purpose under imperial rule.

Kim, S. (2022). A Study on the Photobooks of Joseon in the 1920s. The Korean Society of Gyobang and Culture, 2(1), 31–47. https://doi.org/10.58936/gcr.2022.6.2.1.31