Tashkent, Uzbekistan – Viktor An, a 77-year-old photographer, has dedicated his life to documenting the Korean diaspora of Central Asia, known as Koryo-saram. Born in Uzbekistan after his parents were deported from Siberia, An found his calling as a photographer in his 30s, capturing the everyday lives of Korean inhabitants across the region.
His work showcases the cultural assimilation of Koryo-saram over the years, from traditional customs to the influence of South Korean pop culture. With the rise of the “Korean Wave” in Uzbekistan, younger generations are drawn to Korean language and culture, reflecting a complex blend of identities.
Despite the historical injustices faced by Koryo-saram, including the mass deportation in 1937, An believes in preserving their unique heritage. As Uzbekistan embraces Korean culture, the future of Koryo-saram remains uncertain, with many looking to South Korea for new opportunities.
Through his photography, An captures not just moments in time, but the resilience and adaptation of a community shaped by a century and a half of displacement and evolution.
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