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Korea | Film 70min, TV 50min | 4K | Color+B&W

Logline

In 1894, under Japan’s “kill them all” order, the Donghak Peasant Army and civilians were massacred. A skull discovered 130 years later in Hokkaido University reveals the hidden truth of Japan’s first genocide.

Synopsis

In 1894, the Donghak Peasant Revolution spread across Korea under the banner “Expel the Japanese and Westerners.” After defeat at Ugeumchi, the peasants faced Japan’s brutal scorched-earth campaign. Japanese troops massacred Donghak fighters and civilians alike in Naju, Jangheung, and across Honam, beheading and burning entire villages.

130 years later, skulls labeled “Heads of Donghak Leaders” were discovered in Hokkaido University. They reveal how Japan used eugenics and racial science to justify colonial rule. Through survivor testimonies and Japanese military records, this documentary confronts the forgotten genocide of 1894.

Director's Statement

I, the director, am from Jeonju. 130 years ago, a massive massacre took place in my hometown. In 1894, the Donghak Peasant Revolution, rooted in the belief “Man is Heaven,” was brutally crushed by Japanese forces under the order “Kill them all.” After defeat at Ugeumchi, systematic slaughter — beheadings, burnings, and bayonet attacks — devastated fighters and civilians alike across Honam.

The skulls labeled “Heads of Donghak Leaders,” discovered 130 years later in Hokkaido University, expose Japan’s first genocide and how eugenics and racial science justified colonial rule. Through Japanese military records, survivor testimonies, and researcher materials, this documentary reveals the forgotten truth and delivers a universal message on human rights and historical memory in a world where war and genocide still continue.

Director & Producer  KANG Hojun