The Polarization of Political and Social a Participation in Korea

Abstract

In this article, we look at the polarization of political and social participation in Korea. Previous related studies have addressed the polarization of the political left and right without taking into account the differences in political and social participation in relation to socioeconomic status. Using the Korea Institute for Health and Social Affairs’ “Social Participation, Capital, and Awareness Survey” data, we analyze the following dimensions of participation in relation to socioeconomic status: 1) participation in professional, regional, or civic groups and political parties; 2) voting; 3) willingness to express publicly in various ways “when the interests or rights of the individual or family are violated”; and 4) political efficacy. The analysis revealed that the willingness and frequency of political and social participation were relatively high in the highly educated and high-income groups, and the level of participation varied by area and between men and women. This analysis points to the need for additional research on political and social polarization. The necessity of strengthening grassroots democracy and reforming the electoral system is also emphasized.