ABSTRACT
Chongryun has always existed within the complex interstate relations between the two Koreas and Japan in the context of Cold War confrontation in East Asia. This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book considers the language, ideology, and identity of three generations of North Koreans in Japan organized around Chongryun. It looks at the historically determined conditions for the ongoing reproduction of Chongryun's identity and the sociopolitical structure to sustain it. The book focuses on the contemporary debate inside Chongryun by highlighting dilemmas and difficulties the second generation faces. It also considers the way in which second-generation Chongryun Koreans manage to cope with the often conflicting dimensions of life. In the face of the uncertain future of Chongryun, the responsibility of decisionmaking and the ongoing demands of everyday life weigh heavily upon them.
