The Contribution of Zainichi Koreans from Jeju Island to the Development of Zainichi Korean Society in Japan

This study examines the contributions of Zainichi Koreans from Jeju island to the development of their society while living in Japan. The results are summarized as follows. First, the Zainichi Koreans voluntarily participated in organized fundraising activities at the level of individuals or Korean Residents Union in Japan for the establishment of Korean embassy in Japan. Second, through the activities in Korean Residents Union in Japan, they enhanced the rights and interests of Zainichi Koreans and contributed to the setup of the Korean Community Center and the exchanges with Japan’s local communities. Third, the affiliated organizations of Korean Residents Union in Japan and its related organizations contributed to the protection of Zainichi Korean businessmen’s rights and interests, the development of sports including the training of younger generations in Taekwondo, and the development of national financial institutions. Fourth, in order to preserve their national identity, they played a leading role in the operation of national classes for Zainichi Koreans, the establishment of national schools, and the execution of education projects. Fifth, they contributed to the improvement of their economic status, the setup of the Jeju Citizens Association Hall, the establishment of a financial base, and the promotion of friendship and mutual aid through Zainichi Koreans’ social gatherings in the midst of difficult lives in a foreign country. Sixth, in Japan society, they raised disaster relief funds for the Great East Japan Earthquake, propagated Korean food culture, performed YMCA activities in Japan, and built toilets in Korea Town. Seventh, the government’s medals and medals for Zainichi Koreans from Jeju island, who contributed to Zainichi Korean society, instilled their pride, which became a psychological compensation for them.