Some observations about Korea and Koreans

I now understand better why Seoul is such a magnet

A city of 25 million creates a critical mass that will bring about a diversity, creativity and magnitude of everything that can’t happen at the same level in a city like Toronto (4.6 million). Examples where this surfaces are in the giant markets, the fantastic variety of music and – of course – in the cafés.

But there are consequences: The never-ending skyline of 30 to 60-storey apartment buildings, assembled in close-up clusters. Even though public transport is convenient and superbly organized, the long commutes are making very long work days even longer. No happy dinner time!

Moon Jae  In – down to reality

He started with a promise of a more democratic, equal and humane society. At this point in time, it is doubtful how much of this promise he can and will deliver. The fact that Korea’s economy is not in good shape is not embraced by his government. I believe the rapprochement with North Korea is a good thing.

The Chaebols and a two-tier economy

There are the huge family-run conglomerates (chaebols) that largely contributed to Korea’s economic miracle; today they are still dominant and have undue influence on politics. And then there is the rest of the economy, with about half the salaries. Unemployment among young people is historically high, and competition for jobs at the conglomerates borders on the insane. Korean society is still very conservative, male-dominated and hierarchical. That there is a ground swell movement to change that is one thing, the time that change will take is yet another.

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