[Book Manuscript Workshop] Bond beyond Nations: Networks and Korean Nationhoods, 1860-1945

Image from Independence Hall of Korea

Prof. Sean Han, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa

Saturday, October 4, 2025


Bunche Hall, Rm 11372

Bond beyond Nations: Sinographic Networks and Korean Nationhoods, 1860-1945 examines the enduring vitality of Sino-Korean cultural encounters and their transformations in the modern era. Challenging the common belief that sinographic exchange had vanished with the rise of nationalism, the book demonstrates how literary and cultural networks continued to shape the ways Koreans defined their sense of belonging with particular national and regional identities. Through case studies ranging from informal diplomacy and print culture to plays, film, and music, the book argues that sinographic sphere remained as a dynamic space for Koreans to address their agenda that often-transcended nation-state boundaries. In doing so, the book highlights the lasting significance of two millennia of Sino-Korean exchange at the turn of the twentieth century and situates these cultural connections within a broader, pluralistic vision of global modernity.    

Sean Han is a historian of Korea’s diplomacy and culture at the turn of the twentieth century. His book project, Bond Beyond Nation: Sinographic Networks and Korean Nationhood, 1860-1945, examines the enduring vitality of Sino-Korean cultural encounters and their transformations in the modern era. Dr. Han earned his Ph.D. from Princeton University. He is also a board member of the Chosŏn History Society—a public learned society dedicated to promoting the study, research, and teaching of Korea's past. Han earned his Ph.D. from Princeton University. Dr. Han is currently an Assistant Professor in Asian History at the University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa.

This workshop is open only to invited participants. 

This is part of the "Koreans in the World" project hosted by UCLA's Center for Korean Studies. This event is supported by the Academy of Korean Studies (AKS Award Number: AKS-2023-SRI-2200001) as part of its Strategic Research Institute Program for Korean Studies. 

Sponsor(s): Center for Korean Studies