'The Tale of Lady Ok'

By Park Sung-ik The other day, I watched "The Tale of Lady Ok," a story that depicts the harsh realities of the slave system during the 1392-1910 Joseon Dynasty. The lives of the slaves, known as "nobi," were filled with suffering and degradation. One of the most striking aspects of this tale is how these individuals were treated.

They were often given names that were derogatory, such as "Gu-deok-i," which references a type of worm found in traditional latrines. This name alone highlights the disdain and lack of humanity that society had toward them. In Joseon, roughly 40 percent of the population consisted of nobi.



This is a staggering number, indicating that a significant portion of the society was born into a system of servitude. Slaves were seen as property, owned by the aristocrats, and were subjected to harsh working conditions and discrimination. They were not regarded as equals, but rather treated like animals — like dogs and pigs.

This dehumanization made it easier for society to ignore their suffering and to justify the cruel practices that governed their lives. The status of the nobi was deeply entrenched in the social hierarchy of the time. Slaves were often born into slavery, meaning that their future was predetermined without any hope of escape or change.

They could be sold, traded or punished without any regard for their individual rights or needs. Families were frequently torn apart when one member was sold off, furthering the cycle of pain and suffering. The nobi would often have to work in agriculture, households or in service for their masters, and they could endure severe punishment for the slightest offenses.

In "The Tale of Lady Ok," one can see the emotional and psychological toll that this treatment had on the individuals involved. The story highlights how these people yearned for dignity and respect, despite their circumstances. It serves as a poignant reminder of the harsh realities faced by those in servitude.

The film captures both the suffering and the resilience of the human spirit, emphasizing the need for compassion and understanding. Reflecting on this part of history is essential, as it reminds us of the injustices that people have faced and continues to face in various forms around the world. While the Joseon era is long past, the themes of inequality and human rights still resonate today.

It's crucial to study these histories to ensure that such injustices are not repeated. Many might argue that this history can be justified by the norms and values of the time. However, there is no excuse for the pain inflicted on individuals who were merely trying to survive.

It is a dark chapter that cannot be erased or overlooked. Understanding the reality of Joseon society provides insights into the complexities of Korean history and the struggles for dignity and freedom that continue to this day. In conclusion, "The Tale of Lady Ok" is not just a story of one woman's experience but a broader commentary on the inhumane aspects of Joseon's social hierarchy.

It shines a light on the degradation faced by many and serves as a reminder of the importance of respect for all individuals, regardless of their social status. Such narratives are vital to ensuring that we acknowledge the past and strive for a more equitable and humane future for everyone. Park Sung-ik (parksi48@naver.

com) is a retired English teacher from Pungmoon Girls' High School..