Nationalism is the strong believe that a particular nation
or state is of more importance than others. It is also the belief that people
who share a common language, history, and culture should constitute an independent
nation, free of foreign domination. Nationalism is a widespread ideological
force in the modern world, supporting the nation- building of newly-independent
countries. Zakaria see danger in the rise of nationalism because nation-states
are less willing to come together to solve common problems. (Zakaria page 34)
South Korean students and members of civic group shout
slogans during a rally against Japan's Takeshima Day in front of the Japanese
embassy in Seoul
South Korea Festivities
For the South Koreans who experienced two distressing historical events in the 20th century, namely the Japanese occupation and the Korean War, nationalism was a big factor in their nation-building. It helped them recover from the trauma of colonization and war. Koreans have exhibited a strong sense of national pride. The nationalistic feeling among South Koreans is vibrant; they feel connected to their country, and are inspired to participate actively in improving it. During the 1950s, South Korea was identified as one of the poorest countries in the world and remained so for over a decade. The 35 years of Japanese occupation and the three-year Korean War that resulted in the split of the country into two caused enormous economic losses and huge casualties devastating the South Koreans. Nevertheless they understood the importance of letting go and focusing on the reconstruction of their nation. Nationalism has been the motivation for South Koreans in the rebuilding of their country through hard work. Their strong sense of unity and national pride stem from an identity based on a common bloodline and a shared ancestry. The Korean language is another aspect that unites ethnic Koreans. A Korean is someone born to Korean parents, who speaks Korean and has Korean looks and nationality. Koreans do not think someone is a Korean just because he or she has a Korean citizenship. They have been taught to be proud of being ethnically homogenous over a long period of time.
The influence of nationalism can be examined from two
perspectives: it can be a positive or a destructive force. One benefit of
nationalism is that it discourages imperialism. Nationalism was the driving
force for colonized countries in their gaining of independence in the 20th
century. A few other benefits of nationalism in South Korea are that it boosts
economic development and promotes democracy. Koreans feel that being tied together by a
common bloodline, it is their responsibility to ensure the well-being of their
own people. Nationalism might also result in the development of exceptionalism
(the belief of the people of a nation that their nation is better than other nations)
and xenophobia (the suspicion, dislike, or fear of other nationalities) among
the people. This negative side of nationalism is that it might instill hatred
for other nations or cultures and seek the advancement of the well-being of
one’s own nation at the expense of others.
Video on Inequality in South Korea and Globalization
Advocates of the bestselling French author are calling for
major reforms in South Korea.
During the 2012 South Korean Presidential election, voters were concerned with income inequality in Korea, an issue that has grown significantly through the years. Income disparity in Korea has increased in recent years after a long period of decreasing inequality. While the short term economic position of South Korea may be stable, larger concerns like income inequality could have a detrimental effect on the larger term prospects of Korea's economic capabilities. In the class reading, Zakaria page 55, it is stated that Korea and other countries not only do not need the IMF but they are competing with it. South Korea economy is doing really well but they are plenty of inequalities with income distributions.
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