Embedding Nostalgia: The Political Appropriation of Foreign Comic Book Superheroes in Korea

Abstract

Comic books have long expressed socio � political concerns and objectives , regardless of their origin . This article examines the political appropriation of foreign comic book superheroes in Korea . By contemplating a range of examples of such forms of appropriation , I show that one and the sameforeign superhero can represent different socio � political views , including anti � communism , orientalism , and patriotism . I argue that because they are associated with innocence , superheroes can be used to summon nostalgia and a strong sense of community , even among those who were unexposed or indifferent to them . This strong association with the local culture allows them to be politicized and stands in the way of the icons becoming truly transnational