Midterm essay :: Changes in Korean Society

How is Korean society changing? If someone question about, I’ll be able to explain it largely in terms of politics, economy, society and culture. The essay will introduce changes and directions in Korea and the impact these changes will have on people.

1) POLITICS

There was a lot of controversy in terms of politics. From the Ferry Sewol incident, which should not be forgotten for a long time, to the corruption that has exploded in connection with it, the support and efforts of the public to resolve it. Individuals' participation in politics has increased since the incident, and various attempts have been made to gather opinions from the younger generation and minorities. After the candlelight movement, is it because I feel that creating good politics also requires the power of the people? I can't forget the candle at that time. Since then, the new government has stressed transparent, fair and just procedures. In addition, it was not successful as a result, but it is valuable in that it has made various attempts, including the introduction of a "proportional party system." Relations with North Korea have also changed in a more friendly manner than before. Although the Hanoi talks ended in an awkward relationship with North Korea, which has nuclear weapons, should cooperate and guard at the same time.

2) ECONOMY

Certainly the economy must be turned upside down by a new game. In its early years of economic growth, Korea enjoyed an 'export-driven model.' This model is effective for rapid early growth, but it is difficult to expect sustained growth in the long term. That's why structural changes in the economy are needed, and new "ups" should be developed for the era of the fourth industrial revolution, not just production. Such alternatives need to reduce monopolies by large companies, drastically improve support for small and medium-sized enterprises, and detailed research in the startup sector as well. Coupang, Big Hit Entertainment is an example, and for this change, governments and investors have to invest in their potential.

3) SOCIETY

Nowadays, there is a big movement in Korean society. Feminists' voices have grown since the MeToo movement began, stressing the breaking of gender stereotypes. From the conservative Confucian traditional society, it was common in Korea for women to do housework and men to make money. However, Korean women as wives were very closed. There were so many things to do, such as household chores, childcare, in-laws' homes, and rituals, and the perception that it is natural to do so caused patriarchal thinking. But now, many women have tried various things to break this stereotype - although not all methods have been without problems - are gathering step by step to make a big difference. More and more people are willing to give up marriage and childcare and live their own lives. He will, too, because in Korea, women with higher-level and higher education suffer great damage to their careers due to marriage and childcare.

4) CULTURE

Korea's K-pop is growing beyond simply "entertainers" to become a global icon. Boy group "BTS" is so popular that everyone in the world knows it. In fact, I remember that when they first appeared, there were many people who criticized the group's name, saying it was strange, and that they were idols and their faces were ugly. But they have messages they want to send to the world as songs. For example, the song "Dionysus" takes the name of the Greek god of wine and tells him to drink and enjoy himself for now, away from being strict and restrained. It also touched and encouraged people by releasing an album with a big motto of loving themselves. In particular, I think the reason why BTS made such a big impact is that only appearance, talent, and talent are extremely important, and the lyrics about love have turned the main Korean entertainment scene upside down. Rather than emotions generated by others, it is written in lyrics that people in the 21st century who live in this era will sympathize with. This is what led to their great success.

5) MY OPINION

In conclusion, I think this direction of Korea is somewhat radical but 'positive'. Personally, I think Korea's unique ethnicity is very interesting. They are cold and warm people who are personalized but not individualized. Korea, which was one of the poorest countries 50 years ago, is now an indispensable country in the global economy due to its rapid growth. Of course, there were many problems caused by rapid economic development. There are excessive competition and enthusiasm for education, corruption, and the nature of trying to finish anything quickly, but I think this should also be accepted and acknowledged as a culture. This is because there are more talented and smart talents among Koreans, and culture that is not found in other countries such as "people of delivery" and "rocket delivery" has been created. Even during the Corona virus crisis, no other country in the world could see such a response. This is because competent medical staff, government support, and sympathetic people are all working together to end the situation relatively soon. Whenever we work together to solve a problem in difficult times, I feel great patriotism. What an interesting country! Of course, as society develops further, individuals will become more rational and cool-headed for their own livelihood. But it's more than a country where everything is perfect. Not in reality. Therefore, I think we should repeat the process of overcoming humanity again even if humanity is lost. And I was born and lived in this land anyway, so I think I should live a fun life while enjoying it So how should we make a better society? In my opinion, people should pay a little more attention to what happens around them. It's also important to work hard on our job, but it's a land where all the same people live together, and as a result, you're also involved in yourself. I think we can make a better Korea if we consider the other side's position a little more and pay a little more attention.