An upcoming public lecture in Seoul will discuss the history and influence of the renowned South Korean publication Sasanggye.

On July 15, the Royal Asiatic Society Korea Branch will host a talk by professor Michael Robinson from the University of Indiana on the journal’s role in shaping post-war public discourse in Korea.

Sasanggye, which translates as “World of Thought,” was initially founded by anti-imperialist agitator Chang Chun-ha in 1953 as a purely academic publication.

It soon expanded its focus to include all aspects of public life, and developed an editorial policy which reconciled an anticommunist agenda with progressive politics. The journal eventually served as a rallying point for student activists opposed to Syngman Rhee and the leaders of the 1961 military coup.

Professor Robinson has written extensively on the history of Korea in the early 20th century, with several books to his name.

His lecture begins at 7:30 p.m. on the second floor of the Resident’s Lounge at Somerset Palace Seoul. Admission is 7,000 won, but is free for members of the RASKB. For more information, see www.raskb.com.

(ngowland@heraldcorp.com)