Korean Politics: The Quest for Democratization and Economic Development

by John Kie-Chiang Oh

Extraordinary political and economic changes have rocked the Republic of Korea over the past fifty years. John Oh, a Korean-born political scientist, has written a clear and insightful account of government and politics throughout this turbulent period. His chronological and thematic study analyzes both the conflicts between authoritarian forces and populist/democratic elements and the nation's determined efforts to achieve economic growth. In relating Korea's transformation to a democratic society and an industrial state, Oh explains how the country's politics and economy are interrelated. He covers the launching of the first democratic republic, the emergence of military regimes, and the growth of the middle class and the civil society. He also reveals the causes of collusion between political and economic groups which led to corruption, structural anomalies, and economic crises. Korean Politics is the first English-language book to draw on original Korean-language sources including testimonies from the trials of former presidents in its analysis of their military-dominated governments. The book concludes with succinct discussions on the first peaceful transfer of power to an opposition leader, Kim Dae-jung. Timely and authoritative, it is an ideal classroom text and an indispensable reference on contemporary Korea.

Genres: Nonfiction

272 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 1999

Reviews

[Gabe Hawkins · Rating 4 out of 5]

In light of the current global political landscape relative to North Korea, I felt this book was worth another read. While it obviously cannot account for more recent happenings, the core focus of this book is explaining the development of political institutions, power structures, and political economy in Korea through which one can better understand why and how certain events have taken place and even attempt to predict political outcomes. Overall, the book successfully delivers on that premise. There are a handful of sections that I wish were longer or more detailed, but considering the scope of the book, I can understand why it isn’t.

[Bowdoin]

Reader in group - I am currently reading Korean Politics by Professor John Kie-Chiang Oh for my East Asian Politics class. Even though it's more or less an ordinary history book, it leads you through the development of a culture and a nation that we are not so familiar with. While reading this book, I witnessed the transformation of an autocracy to a democracy, the maturation of a republic, and the emergence of an economic miracle. What makes Korean politics especially interesting is that it is a mixture of traditional far eastern culture and western influence. Studying this book also gives me a better insight into the current tensions between North and South Korea.