ABSTRACT
This chapter presents the foundational myth of the Karak/Kaya Kingdom, focusing on Princess Hŏ Hwang-ok, purportedly an Indian wife to Kim Suro. It explores interpretations and reasons behind attributing Indian origins to Korea’s first queen. Symbolically, the legend forever links Korea and India, emotionally and genetically. Rather than scrutinizing the historical accuracy, the chapter emphasizes the legend’s power to endorse cultural consistency, impart values, and offer cultural commentary. Subchapter The Legend provides an account from Samguk yusa, supplemented by various English-language sources, highlighting elements crucial for interpretation, and comparing several of the existing versions. The second subchapter, Contemporary Criticism of the Legend, outlines academic publications discussing the Indian Princess’s legend in English, offering an overview of scholarly perspectives. The third – Practicalities of the Legend – introduces cultural objects in South Korea and India inspired by the tale. The concluding section, A Purpose of the Legend, explores reasons for the enduring significance of the legend for Koreans and Indians. Overall, the chapter find the way along the blurred line between myth and reality, exploring the enduring connections between the two cultures.
