By June Park
To read the full article, please click here.
Abstract
South Korea has undergone dramatic transformations over the past six decades, evolving rapidly from an impoverished nation into a global economic powerhouse. While numerous factors have contributed to this remarkable growth, one crucial yet often overlooked element is the strategic mobilization and politicization of women. The following essay explores the intricate relationship between the treatment of women and economic policies across three significant historical periods: The era of Japanese colonization, the Park Chung Hee regime1 , and the period marked by Western militarization and U.S. military presence. By examining these periods, I aim to illuminate how South Korea’s pursuit of economic growth has historically manifested in practices that exploit and subordinate women. Through this analysis, I seek to provide deeper insight into the evolution of South Korea’s economic priorities and to provide historical basis for the gender-based mistreatment that continues to influence contemporary Korean society.
To continue reading, please click here.