The Taiwan History Podcast: Formosa Files
Taiwan vs. South Korea - A Conversation with Author Chris Tharp
Jun 20, 2025
Chris Tharp, author of the novel 'The Cuttlefish' and long-time South Korea resident, dives deep into the intertwined histories of Taiwan and South Korea. He discusses their parallel journeys from colonization to democracy, touching on the differing impacts of Japanese rule. The conversation also unveils the unique paths Christianity took in both regions influenced by nationalism. Tharp further contrasts the authoritarian legacies of leaders like Chiang Kai-shek and Syngman Rhee, and highlights the distinct political landscapes shaped by female leaders Park Geun-hye and Tsai Ing-wen.
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Parallels in Taiwan and Korea
- Taiwan and South Korea share remarkably similar modern histories with Japanese colonization and Cold War struggles.
- Both experienced authoritarian rule, economic miracles, and transitions to democracy in the late 20th century.
Christianity's Different Roles
- Christianity is much more prevalent in South Korea (about 30%) than in Taiwan (around 5%).
- Christianity's rise in Korea was linked to nationalism and equality, contrasting with Taiwan's religious landscape dominated by Buddhism and Taoism.
Contrasting Views on Japanese Rule
- Koreans view Japanese colonial rule as a national humiliation due to its harsher oppression and shorter duration.
- Taiwan was seen as a wild frontier, so Japanese rule is remembered less negatively, even nostalgically in some cases.