East Asia Institute (EAI) Holds Roundtable on Korean Democracy Storytelling: Discussing ‘K-Democracy’ (feat. the Future)

YouTube Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZCRgSnEFj2M

The East Asia Institute (EAI), with the support of the National Democratic Institute (NDI), held a roundtable titled ‘Discussing K-Democracy’ (feat. the Future) on Friday, October 30, 2020, as part of the ongoing South Korea Democracy Storytelling project. The roundtable, convened to foster intergenerational dialogue and explore the future vision of Korean democracy and South Korea's role in advancing global democracy, was divided into two sessions: ‘Session 1: The Future of Party Democracy’ and ‘Session 2: The Future of Civil Democracy’.”

The event featured panelists including EAI Senior Fellow and Professor at Sungkyunkwan University, Lee Sook-jong, as well as young individuals, National Assembly members, and civic leaders who participated in the South Korea Democracy Storytelling project. They shared diverse perspectives and engaged in discussions on the current state and future of Korean democracy.

Session 1: The Future of Party Democracy

ModeratorLee Yoon-jung, Former Member of Gwangmyeong City Council

PanelistsKim Dong-min, CEO of Nabi 1020
Kim Se-yeon, Former Member of the National Assembly, People Power Party
Park Soon-bong, Reporter, The Kyunghyang Shinmun
Park Yong-jin, Member of the National Assembly, Democratic Party of Korea
Cho Jung-hoon, Member of the National Assembly, Transition Korea
Joo Hong-bi, Former Deputy Spokesperson for Youth, Democratic Party of Korea

Session 2: The Future of Civil Democracy

ModeratorKim Kyung-dong, General Director of Young Tent

PanelistsKim In-ho, Operations Committee Member, Today for Tomorrow
Park Tae-soon, Head, Korea Public Forum
Yoo Sung-woon, Reporter, 중앙일보 (The JoongAng Ilbo)
Lee Hyung-yong, Chairman, Governance Center
Jeong Gwan-gwan, Professor, Korea University
Ha Tae-wook, Co-representative, Nara

* Panelists listed in alphabetical order (Korean)

Contact Person

Lee Eun-ji, Researcher, East Asia Institute (EAI)

Session 1: The Future of Party Democracy

Session 2: The Future of Civil Democracy

General Discussion

Video Transcript

Yes, thank you. After using that, Mr. Jang will provide a company overview. He mentioned that he would even discuss the total amount in the greenhouse. Did you think about it? Please take a look at it, even if it's just a glimpse. First, the most regrettable thing is that among the many projects, the democracy projects are not yielding good results and are not being highlighted. In relation to this, we will proceed with the program. This program was supported by the US, and we have brought in four months of assistance through MDR. We have organized meetings with young leaders, civic leaders, and millennials. Professor, you have written extensively on Korean democracy in the National Assembly.

Therefore, today, we will gather here to discuss the topic of whether democracy is being justified. I believe that many people are participating and that citizens are also participating. We have selected questions and prepared cards. Those who have received them have questions. We will proceed with the discussion. I will ask the moderator to introduce the participants.

Hello everyone. I am [Name], who will be moderating today. About two months ago, through [Platform Name], we identified issues related to individual transparency and accountability. We wondered what we should do. So, I thought, how do the people involved in civil society perceive democracy? It is a great honor to be able to discuss this with so many people. It was a very busy schedule.

All participants believe that the future of party democracy is important for young people. First, we have focused on the traditional aspects. We have been able to provide opportunities for citizens to see the world through the lens of the past. Although we have limited time, we will proceed with the discussion to cover various perspectives. Let's begin. The first question is for those who are here today. Please answer the question on the screen.

The first question is: As of October 30, 2020, is Korean democracy progressing or in crisis? Please assess Korean democracy and share your opinions on the democratic values that we should prioritize most. We will begin by asking each of the panelists present today for their brief perspectives. If you have any additional comments, please feel free to share them.

Yes. The question is whether democracy is progressing or in crisis. It is difficult to answer simply. As the moderator mentioned, institutional perfection is something we lack. I believe that the institutional completeness, flexibility, and adaptability of a country's democracy are crucial. I think this is something we need to consider. In a democratic society, dialogue and compromise are essential. Are these disappearing? I believe that good values and the rule of law are being undermined by populism.

In a democratic society, we must respect and listen to others. I believe that compromise is possible through dialogue and mutual agreement. This is related to the future of democracy. We need to consider the past, present, and future. The executive branch handles current issues, while the legislative branch deals with future issues.

Indeed, the National Assembly discusses future issues and reaches agreements, which are then implemented. However, in some countries, political circles discuss past events and make decisions based on them, failing to consider the future. Unfortunately, this approach hinders the development of future-oriented policies. While we focus on institutional improvements to address current issues, we must also consider the long-term vision for the next 20 to 30 years. This requires a shift in focus towards building a sustainable future.

Crisis is a concern, and today's discussion is a crucial task. Mr. Park Yong-jin, your insights are valuable. You have highlighted key aspects of the democratic ecosystem. We need to delve deeper into these issues. I would like to introduce Ms. Kim Se-yeon. As of October 31, 2020, it is unfortunate that we cannot hear from you, but we appreciate your participation.

Many countries face similar challenges. Politics is about building a society, and the economy is also influenced by environmental changes. It is difficult to predict the future, but I believe that the role of the state is crucial in navigating these challenges. We must uphold the spirit of the constitution and strive for a better future.

I believe that decision-making processes have been influenced by various factors. It is important to consider these influences and strive for objective and rational judgment. We must also ensure that the public's voice is heard through elections and public opinion polls.

In the past, state power was used to address issues. I believe that citizens can hold power accountable. We are witnessing global trends in the political landscape. The economy and society are interconnected. We need to consider the role of democracy and its values.

The future of democracy is uncertain. We need to consider the role of politics in addressing societal challenges. The public has spent considerable time engaging in political discourse. This engagement needs to be channeled effectively.

Politics must play a role in integrating society. The role of politics in development needs to be re-evaluated in line with societal progress. In South Korea, it is time to reconsider the role and significance of politics. The global environmental movement, which began after the Paris Agreement, is a testament to this. Politics must now focus on societal integration.

I am very much looking forward to this discussion. Frankly, I believe that political power should be exercised with a sense of responsibility and consideration for others. Instead of engaging in debates about political power, we should focus on strengthening the capabilities of politics. Politics must be able to manage conflicts and divisions, and it must be able to foster economic growth.

I would like to begin by introducing a key concept: political reform is essential for addressing the challenges of our time. As you mentioned, the economy plays a crucial role. It is important to pursue interests while also considering the common good. This requires a commitment to democratic principles and a willingness to engage in constructive dialogue.

We must not be dominated by the majority. We need to ensure that the electoral system reflects the will of the people. Diversity is also crucial in a democracy.

It is difficult to make decisions based on a single perspective. As society becomes more diverse, we must embrace a broader range of viewpoints. Compromise and dialogue are essential for navigating these complexities.

We need a comprehensive upgrade. Politics is evolving, and we must adapt to these changes. As mentioned earlier, the younger generation plays a crucial role. How do others view this issue? Mr. Park Soon-bong, could you share your thoughts? This is a question that requires careful consideration. We need to move beyond simply reporting on events and instead focus on providing in-depth analysis.

Looking at the current political situation, I feel that it has become more polarized since January 2015. Perhaps it is more appropriate to describe it as a state of conflict rather than a crisis. Previously, when there were conflicts between the ruling and opposition parties, we would engage in intense discussions and try to find common ground. We would consider the implications of our decisions and strive for consensus. However, the current situation is different.

It is perceived that there is little room for compromise. Even after a considerable amount of time, there is no significant progress. I believe that the focus should be on building consensus and fostering cooperation. Democracy is a system created by people, and it requires continuous effort and adaptation.

Ultimately, conflicts are resolved through dialogue and compromise. Therefore, I believe that a framework for such resolutions needs to be established. While some may argue that this is an idealistic view, I believe that it is essential for fostering a healthy democracy. We need to move beyond habitual responses and embrace a more proactive approach.

5. Regarding checks and balances, it is crucial to ensure that they are effective. We must strive for a democracy that is inclusive and tolerant. Could you please share your thoughts on this matter? I believe that the current challenges stem from a lack of engagement with societal issues and a disregard for the importance of dialogue.

We tend to focus on the past when assessing the present, which can hinder our ability to envision a better future. However, if we consider the present in light of the past, we can gain a clearer understanding of the challenges we face. It is important to engage in critical self-reflection and avoid complacency.

Therefore, I believe that we must embrace a spirit of self-reflection and continuous improvement. While progress may seem slow, it is important to acknowledge the efforts made and to strive for further advancements. I resonate deeply with the idea that we must learn from our past mistakes and work towards a more inclusive and equitable future.

Ultimately, I believe that we must embrace self-reflection and a commitment to continuous improvement. By learning from the past and looking towards the future, we can navigate the complexities of democracy and build a better society.

I firmly believe that South Korea is a democratic nation. However, I also wonder if any country is more susceptible to falling into democratic pitfalls than ours. In our daily lives, we often overlook the importance of democratic principles, settling for mediocrity. We must prioritize the needs of minorities and ensure that their voices are heard. In this regard, I believe that Korean democracy has made significant progress recently.

We must also consider the guidelines and laws that hinder open discussion. It is crucial to create an environment where diverse perspectives can be shared and debated. We must move beyond superficial agreements and strive for genuine consensus.

This raises the question of whether public opinion can truly be reflected in policy decisions. We must consider how to ensure the participation of all citizens in the democratic process. Ultimately, embracing diversity and respecting differing viewpoints are essential for fostering a robust democracy. In South Korea, the lack of open dialogue and compromise hinders the full realization of democratic ideals.

The principle of majority rule is important, but it is not the sole determinant of decision-making. Dialogue and compromise are essential for achieving a more inclusive and effective democracy.

I would like to take this opportunity to ask each of the six panelists to share their keywords. The keywords that emerged from the discussion include: dialogue, compromise, tolerance, restraint, persuasion, and respect. I would like to ask those who mentioned these keywords more than three times to elaborate on their significance.

Furthermore, if there are any points made by the parliamentarians or reporters that you agree with, please elaborate on them. The second question is: You mentioned that young people are raising issues, but politicians are not actively addressing them. Is this feasible? You also mentioned that civil society is separate from politics, which is a concern.

Even if parliamentarians want to compromise, they are constrained by party interests. This creates a cycle of conflict and hinders progress. It is crucial to break this cycle and foster a more collaborative political environment. The era of confrontation is over; we are entering an era of transition.

Short-term solutions are needed to address the polarization in society. We need to find ways to foster compromise and dialogue. This requires a shift in the political landscape, with politicians prioritizing the common good over partisan interests.

Political reform is essential, particularly within the National Assembly. We need to create an environment where politicians can transcend partisan interests and prioritize the well-being of the nation. If politicians can set aside their personal agendas and work for the common good, I believe that positive change will follow.

It is important to create spaces for dialogue and compromise. Even if politicians face challenges in their careers, they must remain committed to serving the public. This requires a strong sense of civic responsibility and a willingness to engage in constructive dialogue.

There is no single correct answer. When individuals with diverse perspectives enter the political arena, can they truly engage in dialogue and compromise? Those who do not engage in such dialogue will find it difficult to achieve their goals. Political education is crucial for fostering a more inclusive and participatory democracy.

How can we resolve conflicts that arise in our daily lives? We have the knowledge and resources to do so, but we must be willing to listen to others and understand their perspectives. Ultimately, the future of Korean politics depends on our ability to foster dialogue and cooperation. We must create a political environment where future generations can thrive.

This material started with alcohol and tobacco. I had not used molecular * before. Yes, you can naturally connect it through the senses or by pushing it first. The market is currently... where is it? Ah, the Soviet army needs this. Hmm, it is about supporting the people of South Korea. However, I heard something amazing about the external documents of the Helra insect. The width of 100 is small. No, it is about the Minsugi vehicle area. These people are targeting the stocks that attended the recovery. So, the ambition of the white people can be thought of as social justice.

He feels he must open up in prison. When he wrote about the moon, he was in his middle age. We sang this song in the position of anc shirts and masks, and even the world gave a bit of membership. I think I can lecture again with a colleague. The representative Jinseo's denial is an example. There is nothing in the buffer, and people must stop sending large amounts together. The letter is not about the chicken, but the formal price of other things is emphasized. So, how can the monster be released? Finally, at that time, the grip newspaper oi, the second free 4, now talks about the means. The person who was thinking internally was not a person.

So, according to American time, the information power of the deceased people can follow such common themes. If so, then click on the correction of the internal score. But anc is twice that. Oh, there, in the qualification of the second movement, it is verbally voluntary. Try it anywhere, the voice is loud and radical, and the church's pc was painful. It was 5. The development is 3. Even thinking of oneself as a successor, maintaining the character of the head of the department, you are not Chris, and I have been able to propose more in the song. Thank you.

So, is it 200,000 won to make the bone soup? It's cold. What is the rally? Ah, the athlete's mission is 10,200 won. If you pick it up there, it will really become anchovy with the budget of the West Sea. Angela, our class has them. When did they become so cool? There was a time when I thought about joining the small actions. A politician must first be a big river. Mr. Baek Seon-yeop asks if welfare cannot be done. Regarding the question of nucleic acids, after that, I cried and laughed, thinking about social theft.

So, it is too strong, strong, strong, strong, strong, strong, strong, strong, strong, strong, strong, strong, strong, strong, strong, strong, strong, strong, strong, strong, strong, strong. Misari dares to speak as if it had a mouth in the past. Why do the ignorant people have a confirmed presence? If there is, then foreign business will be about Kim Won-bong. The direction he participated in will be vital. It is urgent, and after asking about the achievements, we feel regret. That statement was not about art. The color is alive. The control department says that person should do it. Yes, oh, yes, 3 soccer 1 modification. Why is this important to the residents? It is not that they are saying that they like it. Then let's do it. They say they dislike pleasure.

Um, every day, uncle is very present. When I think about grabbing the ball in the room, it sticks. It is regrettable that there are people who can speak the truth. If so, it would be nice if the president could live separately in 2009-10. But money can go further. To do that, the people must think about what they should do. In this world, this is the most filled, but how precious is the price that has been paid? When we think about the date of technology, we must think about how to solve it. I have never forgotten how to solve it until the time comes.

I can that green state. It is possible to do surgery, but how amazing it is when it becomes faithful. You must avoid the 8th day. Around the time of Aaron, you can try the hypothesis again. I especially think that the problem of the competition is that there are no other people. So when I can experience what I said in the terrain of quality, I think that the truth is that I was a salmon frog.

So, I thought it was internal. I think about the contract of the local government in 2000. I think it has great significance. How did you write it? I think it is not like this. Ah, I put that tag in. So, I welcome it. What kind of attitude do we have? If we do this, we will be guided by the guidelines. First, it is not that he disappeared from the person, but that the politician has not been under the corruption of the past. Each superstition will be a violation for 5-10 years. If believers go first, the ruling power will be tested in 10 countries around the world.

We must do it. Ah, to dig the earth, if you want the uncomfortable truth, limits are needed. When hiding bacteria, at that time, someone must see it once at 4 o'clock. You can do that much. You must do it personally. What positive impact can the choice have? You mentioned that. I will ask the second question to make it clear. Yes, it seems that I have received the arrival of ds light. In the political world, the major appropriate pillars are also politically divided.

How should the political world change to reduce the current wasteful political conflict and expose the implications of the settings? What should the representatives of the people prepare for this? I ordered that it would be good to ask this. Regarding the second question, you provided many examples and that was good. Can you give it to him at Capri Tech 5mm? The young people are now in a situation where they are in the existing Samgari 5 o'clock.

Of course, the hip thigh gal 3 is like, what should I give? It seems that the format is like coordinates. So, it is much more elevated. Therefore, the factors for democracy and the mask of politics must be dealt with quickly. Now is the season. Each must punish the powder, and who overwhelms whom? This started in Israel. We are making decisions to live. We are starting domestic cancer again.

So, yesterday, the system of the National Assembly was used. While using the forced 3 leagues, there are 7 types, and other than that, it can become a vacuum state. When something is learned, I am not in that position. Then, can it be done without being renewed? Let's go to New Daily Society or what does it mean? 9 In the deer water, why can this place be the best place to establish?

Regarding this, I think that the black Samsung, well, to these people, you should find the two-typed quickly. Even in such a situation, it was said that it was not possible to protect the data of social components. Even in the time of the established parties, it was said that it was closed. I will see it too. In the end, these animals must be dealt with when they are to be learned. It is said that something better should be given priority.

Ah, well, after it ends, I will choose it. Ah, each citizen will see everything right next to them at 3 o'clock. The media is hoping for a frame that thinks about politics. So, there is a fish. If a person seems to live, it is not like that. If it is Appco, it is completely like that. And finally, the chocolate player can accelerate the virtual. I think the preparation of the release is necessary.

I will do it because you have opened the focus widely. You said that when you specify 4, 3, 4, 4.5, 3, 0, how to derive social consensus. It is possible to approach it, but it is not practical. The two things are time. It must be revealed as an alternative score in the device of Kim Ha-neul. It must be absolute in relation to the relative development.

I liked the scenery of intelligence. I do not want to be bound by the side I do not want to be. I think we should hold events for the red people. I want to think about how we can avoid being scared. I think it is a case where we have to compromise. I think it is always necessary to match the margins. If responsibility comes out, it will be very difficult in that field.

If the feeling of the report is refreshing, we have to be very careful about the interpretation of the political situation. I think it is possible to create international cooperation. I hope that the company will be able to do this. I think it is important to have a good relationship with the people.

At 6 a.m., stopping is not guilty. How can we protect the diversity of our society? How can we establish values that have justice? If you look at it this way, it is necessary. Secondly, I think our politics should be realistic. I think I should talk about the American morning sun.

The pain is in the majority. There are no 20 hours and 13 months. I must practice about the travel of the mouth. I have never done politics. I told the political department reporters that it was a bit hard. So, our part will be excluded from the day. I think it will be very busy.

When the regular session starts and the National Assembly is held, there will be no expansion after the inspection. I will go at 10 o'clock. But our 5,000 customers will improve. What will happen if they run away? The people have taken the medicine. If you become 7, I will plan to rest for the sake of the monster.

It will be done by unfair dismissal. When this happens, the 10th meeting of the Japanese National Assembly will protect the circuit of the watermelon. I think politics should help these three. I think the ideological content should be composed of practical content.

The General Assembly will go, and if you think about it, it will not work. However, we must realize that we are now going to do politics. I think we can create a social system.

When I think of it, people really feel that it is a problem. I think it is a problem. I think it is a problem. I think it is a problem. I think it is a problem. I think it is a problem. I think it is a problem. I think it is a problem. I think it is a problem. I think it is a problem. I think it is a problem. I think it is a problem. I think it is a problem. I think it is a problem. I think it is a problem. I think it is a problem.

And we must play our role. At first, how can we come to think that all new exemplary articles should be developed? I must write policies. I have to write policies. I have to write policies. I have to write policies. I have to write policies. I have to write policies. I have to write policies. I have to write policies. I have to write policies. I have to write policies.

The loop that has not occurred is to be pulled up. If you think of such a person, these people must think of the challenge. They must think of the challenge. They must think of the challenge. They must think of the challenge. They must think of the challenge. They must think of the challenge. They must think of the challenge. They must think of the challenge. They must think of the challenge. They must think of the challenge.

It is possible to do so. However, I also think that it is a moment when it is not helpful to advance. I think that it is a moment when it is not helpful to advance. I think that it is a moment when it is not helpful to advance. I think that it is a moment when it is not helpful to advance. I think that it is a moment when it is not helpful to advance. I think that it is a moment when it is not helpful to advance.

When that happened, now, in the end, what? Run said, 'You, uh, election, like that, uh, will do it with your family.' Ah, so, well, through their daily life, as I practiced, having to answer society's problems, from before, I broke off my first engagement that day. Then, now, uh, write this down: because the order comes over, with a too strong assumption or not, a lacking spider acting as a channel, even a forwarded post from you, why wouldn't it work, I wonder. For example, how information is being established, you know? People like the general public or something, even in that authorship, the solar conference, actually, I thought there were too many, but through the web, I studied one thing about companies, and it was fine. The National Assembly law itself should gradually bring change to the Assembly by itself; regarding the meaning of B, if chronic factors are the problem. So, well, if you look for such things, might it not point out the institutional legacy of authoritarian governments that still remains? If improvement of such institutions is desired, then for many years, regardless of ruling and opposition parties, the National Assembly...

I think we need to have a conversation. We need to have a system that can be established.

After the repair of 4, the 1100 model has been made consumptive in the long term. I will look at how to improve the system. I think the political situation is a problem.

When I saw it, I thought that if you mentioned it, the members of the National Assembly would have a lot of problems. So, I think it is important to have a system that can be established.

In that sense, I think we need to have a conversation. We need to have a system that can be established.

I think we need to have a conversation. We need to have a system that can be established.

I think we need to have a conversation. We need to have a system that can be established.

I think that the system must be meaningful. I think that the system must be meaningful. I think that the system must be meaningful. I think that the system must be meaningful.

I think that the system must be meaningful. I think that the system must be meaningful. I think that the system must be meaningful. I think that the system must be meaningful.

There is a way, but I am responding to the thought that these 8 Seonghwadae sons are not achieving it. And, ah, I, at times, a youth in their twenties, are very vocal, and because of that, we must raise awareness that such people are increasingly disappearing, so that on the Mint Busan Car algorithm, when seeing the lack of possibility for drivers, no restrictions can be found at all. So, is a person who has entered at a certain point a one who can make policy? In my interview, political difference mistakes should also surface. But at some point, after talking with friends...

I think that the system must be mixed. I think that the system must be mixed. I think that the system must be mixed. I think that the system must be mixed. I think that the system must be mixed.

If you look at that, it's not. The media trend books are taking those who live in the current political sphere and failing to provide that to the people in an accusatory frame; that is the situation. And in such 3, if you want to do this kind of political expression, you know. Since it's fine, why are you, 20-something, doing it? Now, relieve it, it's very absent, didn't you say? That becomes a contract to sense conversations. You even gave ideas. Ah, we are now at the second 19, e, yes. There are about 7 minutes, so I will first listen and then, yes, do it on a large scale.

I think that the system must be mixed. I think that the system must be mixed. I think that the system must be mixed. I think that the system must be mixed. I think that the system must be mixed.

I think that the system must be mixed. I think that the system must be mixed. I think that the system must be mixed. I think that the system must be mixed. I think that the system must be mixed.

I think we need to have a conversation. We need to have a system that can be established.

The festival is well recognized, but the failure to realize daily communication with the people, or not being able to start it—there is nothing of the sort; it has been a great thing. And, very much so, now, why attach a car? When entering, it cleanly demonstrates performance and validity. I said it was in Ulsan, but because it requested a two-type configuration, now one's personal excellence has been allowed, performing reverse contamination. Then, how can the people's opinions be rested? What is it? It must be in doing that, you know? Based on that person's words. Yes, did I recently receive data awards? Due to the school fax problem in a dark area, I experienced calf exhaustion of type A.

So, the members of the National Assembly should understand that they are not the only ones who have to do this. They should understand that they are not the only ones who have to do this. They should understand that they are not the only ones who have to do this. They should understand that they are not the only ones who have to do this.

I think that we should do this. I think that we should do this. I think that we should do this. I think that we should do this. I think that we should do this. I think that we should do this. I think that we should do this.

So, we should do this. I think that we should do this. I think that we should do this. I think that we should do this. I think that we should do this.

I think that we should do this. I think that we should do this. I think that we should do this. I think that we should do this.

I think we need to have a conversation. We need to have a system that can be established.

I think we need to have a conversation. We need to have a system that can be established.

I think we need to have a conversation. We need to have a system that can be established.

I think we need to have a conversation. We need to have a system that can be established.

I think we need to have a conversation. We need to have a system that can be established.

I think that we should do this. I think that we should do this. I think that we should do this. I think that we should do this.