[ASEAN Column] Challenges for Korean Democracy After COVID-19

Observing the responses and progress of various countries in dealing with the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19) seems to reveal the true nature of each nation. As a social scientist, it has been an interesting opportunity to reflect on what a country and its people truly are.

At this moment when COVID-19 is dominating the world, an emergency has been declared in Singapore, where the author resides. Singapore's population is less than one-tenth of South Korea's total population, yet the number of daily new cases is increasing by more than 1,000. Initially known as a model country for quarantine measures, Singapore's total confirmed cases have now surpassed those of South Korea. In particular, since most confirmed cases are foreign workers, cautious criticism is emerging. Singapore is currently under a nationwide lockdown.

While some countries are gradually seeing effects from strict quarantine policies, there are certainly others that are not. It is doubtful whether Japan has the will to implement effective quarantine measures. The situation in the Philippines is even more unfortunate. Although the country was locked down as confirmed cases increased, there is a severe shortage of medical personnel. Many nurses have gone abroad for employment, resulting in a lack of medical staff at home, causing confirmed patients to lose their lives. It is a heartbreaking situation.

On the other hand, South Korea has received many positive evaluations for the government's swift response. The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency responded systematically, and citizens also showed a high level of awareness in this urgent situation.

Honestly, I had not felt pride in my country until now. Having lived abroad for a long time and frequently traveling to and from Korea, I always felt a chronic or unconscious sense of defeat underlying things. Especially because Korean education is harsh and competitive, I often encountered self-deprecating expressions like "Hell Joseon," reflecting a desire to leave Korea. Because of this, positive evaluations that Korea is doing well have not resonated much with those around me. However, through this COVID-19 crisis, pessimistic attitudes toward the Korean government and others have quietly shifted to "Korea is okay. It is a livable country."

I believe the severe COVID-19 crisis has become an important turning point that changes national perspectives in a more positive direction. Korea has truly experienced many events and has grown. We have reached today after countless democratic uprisings, economic growth, and overcoming national crises. When I teach modern and contemporary Korean political culture to students in Singapore, the greatest interest is in the high level of civic consciousness.

It is good to have a critical awareness of the nation or government, but now Korea also needs to have a positive national perspective. Of course, the premise that criticism and critique are necessary must remain.

Now is the time for a 'post-COVID perspective.' We have mature civic consciousness and achieved democracy with our own hands. Our own history has made wise and integrative solutions possible at this moment. It is an important time to have a positive outlook and pride, along with humanitarian insight toward the world and a critical awareness for development.

Kim Hyejin, Professor of Political Science and International Studies, National University of Singapore

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.