The simultaneous publication of a history textbook, History to Open the Future, by a committee with members from Korea, China, and Japan is itself a historical event. There was a press conference in Seoul on Thursday to mark the book's publication, and the commemorative gathering was a major event. The Korean media as well as international media that included NHK showed a high degree of interest. Diverse events will take place in Japan and China, too, so you feel satisfaction at the maturity of civil society in the three countries. We express deep respect for the authors who have worked together in joint meetings over the last four years.
Kobunken Publishing, which will publish the Japanese edition, says the book is "a historical first," and that does not sound like an exaggeration. History textbooks have been published jointly by Germany and Poland and by German and France, but this is the first time individuals from three countries have published something of this nature. As is well known the joint textbook by France, Germany, and Poland has contributed to the integration of a single Europe. The reason they were able to construct a common community after the mass killing of two world wars is because they were able to free themselves of self-centered perceptions of history.
We have no doubt that History to Open the Future will become a new milestone in the construction of an East Asian community. The final chapter was allotted to the themes of "youth exchange between the three countries of East Asia," "the anti-war peace movement and the civic movement," and "reconciliation and peace in East Asia." The intention appears to be to deliver a message to youth and even adult generations that all need to go beyond the painful past and commence on a future of hope. Further perfection of this textbook and wide distribution will be a shortcut to getting rid of the antagonism and friction.
The Hankyoreh, 27 May 2005.
[Translations by Seoul Selection (PMS)]
[Editorial] The Publication of a Joint History Textbook |
