Netflix’s Uprising dives into a pivotal moment in history: the Imjin War, also known as the Korean War of 1592. This gripping tale highlights the struggles of two men as Japan invades the Korean Peninsula, igniting a seven-year conflict that shapes their destinies and the fate of a nation.
The film, titled “전, 란” in Korean, translates to “War, Chaos.” Producer and co-writer Park Chan-wook (known for The Handmaiden and The Sympathizer) emphasizes that the story is not merely about chaos caused by war, but about the revolts and changes that follow.
The Imjin War: A Brief Overview
The Imjin War was a significant conflict in East Asia.
- Origins: In 1592, Japan, under Hideyoshi’s regime, invaded Korea, aiming for dominance that might extend to China.
- The Ming Dynasty: Although not depicted in the film, the Ming Dynasty intervened to aid Joseon Korea, suffering heavy casualties but ultimately helping to turn the tide.
- Cultural Impact: The war profoundly influenced Korean identity and historical perceptions of Japan, as noted by Professor Nam-lin Hur from The University of British Columbia.
Key Historical Context
The Korean Peninsula was in the midst of the Joseon dynasty, which lasted from 1392 to 1910. This period is renowned for major cultural advancements, including the creation of the Korean alphabet, Hangeul, in 1443.
A crucial aspect of this era was the yangban class—a scholar-noble tier of society. Jong-ryeo, one of the film’s protagonists, would have belonged to this elite group. While they held significant power, they were often reluctant to participate in military service, as the government upheld strict class divisions.
King Seonjo, who fled Seoul during the invasion, exemplified this disconnect. He prioritized the yangban’s status over the welfare of his people, stating, “The distinction between slaves and masters is like the way of heaven and earth.”
Themes of Class and Struggle
Uprising brilliantly encapsulates the struggle between social classes during wartime.
- Cheon-yeong’s Journey: He rises from slave status to a hero within the Righteous Army, seeking freedom through bravery. Yet, post-war, he confronts the harsh reality of returning to the lowest class.
- Social Unrest: The film portrays how class tensions escalated during the war. Cheon-yeong’s fight is not just against the Japanese invaders but also against the oppressive social structure represented by King Seonjo.
The Fallout of the Imjin War
By 1598, Japan withdrew, but the cost was staggering:
- Casualties: Estimates suggest 500,000 combatants from Japan, China, and Korea lost their lives.
- Civilian Impact: Up to 2 million Joseon civilians may have died, equating to roughly 20% of the population. Many were abducted and taken to Japan, dramatically altering Korean demographics.
Despite Joseon’s victory, the aftermath left the land and its people devastated.
The Cinematic Perspective
Uprising does an excellent job of making this historical narrative engaging. The action-packed scenes keep the audience on the edge of their seats, while the emotional depth gives insight into the characters’ struggles.
Actor Park emphasizes that understanding the emotions behind historical facts is essential. “It’s not just learning the facts, but looking deeper beneath what happened,” he shares.
The Antagonists: More than Just Invaders
In Uprising, the antagonists are not solely the Japanese invaders, represented by the ruthless commander Genshin. Instead, the film critiques the role of King Seonjo, who prioritizes his kingship over his people’s suffering.
Professor Hur notes that Seonjo’s focus on maintaining power often led to negligence regarding the casualties suffered during the war.
Director Kim wanted to explore this internal strife rather than simply depicting a traditional war narrative. “I didn’t want to make a film telling that story,” he says, pointing out that the external invasion acts as a catalyst for internal rebellion against the established system.
Conclusion: A Timely Reflection
Though the Imjin War did not dismantle the Joseon caste system, it did weaken it temporarily, leading to uprisings like the burning of Gyeongbokgung Palace by disgruntled citizens.
The themes of class consciousness resonate strongly today. Director Kim believes that while societies may not explicitly showcase class stratification, the underlying tensions remain relevant.
Actor Park reflects on this shared experience, noting that “almost every country has been through war at some point.” Whether in Korea centuries ago or conflicts raging today, Uprising serves as a poignant reminder of the universal tragedies of war.
This film offers more than just entertainment; it prompts us to reflect on our histories and the classes that shape our societies.
