A Study of Assessment of Social Cohesion Status with Policy Implications (Ⅹ)

Abstract

The study aims to examine the people’s perception of social conflict and draw implications for improving social cohesion, with a specific focus on fairness, younger adults and disabled people. In order to do so, this study conducted a survey, targeting around 4,000 individuals nationwide.

The results indicate an exacerbation in the perceived level of social conflict. Notably, younger adults demonstrate a significantly heightened perception of social conflict compared to the general population. The most prominent conflicts are identified as those between progressive and conservative fractions, with subsequent tensions arising between individuals in regular employment and those in irregular employment. The severity of social conflict within the political sphere fosters a willingness among individuals to engage with others holding divergent political viewpoints. The primary cause of social conflict is identified as the escalating uncertainty surrounding future prospects and the constrained mobility between social classes. Respondents predominantly attribute the responsibility for addressing social conflict to government and local authorities. When it comes to the perception of fairness, around two-thirds of respondents express disagreement with the assertion that Korea is a fair society. The highest levels of dissent are observed among individuals aged 36 to 64 and those identified as lower class based on subjective income classification. In relation to the public's perception of disabled people, the majority of respondents attribute social conflict to systems constructed by non-disabled people. Resolving social conflict is perceived by the majority as a responsibility of the government. One-third of respondents advocate for an augmentation of the budget by the government, while half prefer maintaining the status quo. Concerning the willingness to pay additional taxes for the enhancement of disabled people' welfare, around half express reluctance, while four out of ten are willing to contribute more.