Ocean Elegy: The Tragedies of Mudan and Ryukyu

This documentary focuses on a significant historical event in 1871, where a ship from Miyako Island was caught in a storm and drifted to southern Taiwan. Onboard were 69 Ryukyuan passengers who encountered the Paiwan people during their journey. The film delves into the tragic incidents that occurred, leading to the deaths of some Ryukyuans.

The Mudan Incident served as a pretext for Japan's invasion of Taiwan during the 1874 Taiwan Expedition and influenced Japan's annexation of Ryukyu. By presenting these events, Ocean Elegy highlights the complexities of historical narratives and their lasting effects on regional dynamics. This documentary is essential for those interested in the intersections of history, culture, and politics in East Asia.