
State-authorized Textbook 2017
Dive into the heated debate surrounding South Korea's state-authored history textbooks in *State-authorized Textbook* (2017), a provocative documentary directed by Baek Seung-woo.
Director: Baek Seung-woo
Cast

Frequently Asked Questions
What is *State-authorized Textbook* (2017) about?
This documentary examines the South Korean government's imposition of state-authored history textbooks, sparking debate among scholars about their purpose and impact. Through expert interviews and archival material, the film challenges viewers to question how history is framed—and who gets to write it.
Who directed *State-authorized Textbook*?
The film was directed by Baek Seung-woo, a filmmaker known for documentaries that tackle socio-political issues with depth and nuance.
Who stars in *State-authorized Textbook*?
While the documentary features prominent historians and educators, its most notable presence is Park Geun-hye, the former South Korean president whose policies sparked the textbook controversy.
Is *State-authorized Textbook* (2017) worth watching?
As an unrated documentary, its impact lies in its subject matter rather than cinematic awards. For viewers interested in political education debates or Korean history, it's a compelling watch—though its stance may polarize opinions. The film's runtime keeps it tight and focused.
How long is *State-authorized Textbook*?
The documentary runs for 97 minutes.
About State-authorized Textbook (2017) — The Controversial Truth Behind History Education
Dive into the heated debate surrounding South Korea's state-authored history textbooks in *State-authorized Textbook* (2017), a provocative documentary directed by Baek Seung-woo. The film unravels the controversy over how history is taught in classrooms, questioning the motives behind government-mandated narratives and the resistance from scholars and activists. Through interviews with historians, educators, and critics, it explores the ideological battles embedded in every chapter, revealing how textbooks shape national identity and collective memory. The atmosphere is tense yet thought-provoking, blending archival footage with impassioned commentary to challenge viewers to reconsider what—and who—defines history.
At its core, *State-authorized Textbook* (2017) is a call to scrutinize the power structures behind education. By examining the forces driving textbook policies, the documentary exposes the friction between state control and academic freedom, all while maintaining a neutral yet critical lens. Whether you agree with its conclusions or not, this film offers a compelling look at how the past is weaponized in the present, making it essential viewing for anyone interested in politics, education, or modern history.