GENERATIONAL DIFFERENCES IN SOUTH KOREA: IMPACTS ON THE U.S.-ROK ALLIANCE
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Authors
Yi, Sung B.
Subjects
South Korea
inter-generational conflict
cohort effect
generation
U.S.-ROK alliance
domestic politics
left-right conflict
inter-generational conflict
cohort effect
generation
U.S.-ROK alliance
domestic politics
left-right conflict
Advisors
Weiner, Robert J.
Date of Issue
2020-03
Date
Publisher
Monterey, CA; Naval Postgraduate School
Language
Abstract
Is there a significant generational difference among South Koreans? If so, how do South Korean generations differ in their perceptions regarding national security? This thesis examines how historical experiences generate a cohort effect on certain age groups in South Korea (Republic of Korea [ROK]), and how these specific cohort effects develop generational differences. Four generations that have unique tendencies and characteristics are identified through cohort experience analysis. The New Generation, those in their 20s and 30s in South Korean society, has anti-North Korean, pro-American, pro-autonomy tendencies. The Democratic Generation, those in their 40s, has pro-North Korean, anti-American, pro-autonomy tendencies. The Transition/386 Generation, those in their 50s, has pro-North Korean, anti-American, anti-autonomy tendencies. Lastly, the War Generation, those in their 60s and older, has anti-North Korean, pro-American, anti-autonomy tendencies. These four generations are then tested using available public-opinion poll data to confirm their expected perceptions on numerous issues regarding 1) North Korea, 2) the United States, and 3) ROK national autonomy—independent from the U.S. influence. The public opinion poll data largely confirm the expected outcome, concluding that the generational characteristics and differences in South Korea could influence the future of the U.S.-ROK alliance.
Type
Thesis
Description
Series/Report No
Department
National Security Affairs (NSA)
Organization
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NPS Report Number
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Citation
Distribution Statement
Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.
Rights
This publication is a work of the U.S. Government as defined in Title 17, United States Code, Section 101. Copyright protection is not available for this work in the United States.