Kim U-jin

Kim U-jin (Hangul: 김우진; Hanja: 金祐鎭, August 5, 1897 – August 4, 1926) was a Korean playwright and literary critic during the Japanese colonial period. He is considered a pioneer of modern Korean drama.

Born in Jangseong County, South Jeolla Province, Kim U-jin studied English literature at Waseda University in Tokyo, Japan. During his time in Japan, he became involved in the burgeoning Korean theater movement.

Kim U-jin's plays often explored themes of existential angst, social alienation, and the clash between traditional Korean values and modern Western thought. His representative works include "Iskwa Yasa" ("The Story of Yi Sang") and "Byeongsin Chumeok" ("A Crippled Fist"). His plays are known for their introspective characters and use of symbolism.

In addition to his playwriting, Kim U-jin was a prolific literary critic, contributing significantly to the development of modern Korean literary theory. He analyzed the works of both Korean and Western writers, applying modern critical perspectives to Korean literature.

Suffering from depression, Kim U-jin committed suicide by throwing himself off a train in 1926, a day before his 29th birthday. Despite his short life, Kim U-jin left a lasting impact on Korean literature and theater, influencing generations of writers and playwrights. His works continue to be studied and performed, solidifying his place as a significant figure in Korean literary history.