KJCKorea
Journal Central

Kaneshiro Kazuki’s novel GO presents an original narrative and a decolonial consciousness that transcends the ethnic discrimination and cultural differences often repeated in the literature of Zainichi Koreans. The purpose of this study is to analyze the protagonist’s process of growing into a transnational subject, breaking free from the oppressive structures of nation and ethnicity, along with the narrative techniques used. Through this, the study aims to discuss decolonial ways of thinking and the issues related to the formation of personal identity. This paper first explores how the protagonist, through “de-linking,” breaks free from traditional ethnic and national oppression and grows into an autonomous, reflective subject. It examines the protagonist’s intellectual journey as they grapple with national identity, study the reasons behind prejudice and its historical context, and share knowledge with various minority groups to create a discourse of resistance. By doing so, the study analyzes how the protagonist comes to live a self-determined life, unbound by the constraints of the state. Throughout this process, the protagonist forms a new identity through solidarity with different minority groups, ultimately choosing a more autonomous path. The novel addressed in this study differs from the popular film adaptation of GO, emphasizing themes of “choice” and “knowledge” concerning one's own history, society, and prejudice. The process of making choices and acquiring knowledge in the search for ethnic identity aligns with decolonial choices and knowledge discussed in decolonial theory. This study highlights how GO goes beyond the boundaries of Zainichi Korean literature, presenting a new narrative form based on decolonial thought, and evaluates its significance. The novel stands as an example of transcending ethnic narratives traditionally explored in Zainichi Korean literature, achieving broader appeal within Japanese society.

Zainichi Koreans, diaspora, decoloniality, decolonial choice, de-linking, Kazuki Kaneshiro, GO