Kyohak Publishing Co. said Thursday it may not publish its controversial Korean history textbook amid protests over its content.

The textbook authored by conservative scholars was accused of distorting historical facts, sparking disputes among progressives.

Criticism of the book was especially focused on the depiction of Japan’s colonial rule (1910-1945), which described it as making a positive contribution to Korea’s modernization.

An official from the Kyohak company said, “The president of the company has received a death threat Wednesday, while other employees have been getting many phone calls.”

But the authors want the textbook to be published despite the opposition.

“Authors are regretful of the situation and we understand the stance of Kyohak Publishing, but we hope to overcome the situation together with officials from the company,” said coauthor Lee Myung-hee, professor of history at Kongju National University.

If the company gives up on publishing the textbook, it would stir another controversy since there were no precedents concerning textbooks.

The publisher is expected to make a final decision on the textbook next week.



By Im Woo-jung, Intern reporter
(iwj@heraldcorp.com)