The Lost Village Research
Jeju Island, Korea
This research on the lost villages on Jeju Island, Korea, began as a way to remember the lives lost during the Jeju April 3rd Incident (Jeju 4.3) from 1947 to 1954.
Current Projects
Since first learning about the village in 2024, I’ve been documenting its various corners. The untouched village is now part of a forest with few visitors. I want to remember the village and the lives lost and displaced, so I’ve visited the village every year since then.
I visited Gonuel Dong for the first time in 2023, as I began researching the Jeju 4.3. In 2025. Instead of mourning the village, I wanted to bring it back to life with food and conversation.
The Offering: Lost Village (for Jong Nam)
I’ve felt like an intruder every time I visit Jong Nam. Then I realized I’ve never properly introduced myself. So, on my visit in 2026, I brought a small offering (a bag of snacks) and paid my respects to the people of Jong Nam.