The military and civil society in Korea

Abstract

This paper explores the relations between the military and civil society in Korea over the past few decades. In this paper, two models for civil–military relations, i.e., the integration model and the segregation model are proposed and contrasted. In the integration model, the military maximizes components common to civilian society whereas in the segregation model the military community maintains a certain distance from civilian society highlighting specific features of the military institution. Over the years, the Korean military has moved from segregation to integration with civil society by incorporating civilian values and norms, and by adopting the logic of civilian organization to the military. This paper argues that old solutions seem no longer acceptable to the public in Korea. It stresses that cooperation with the local community is very important for the stable deployment of military units. This paper suggests that general and military-specific features should be compromised on the occasion of selecting policy alternatives.

Citation

Hong, D.-S. (2008), "The military and civil society in Korea", Caforio, G., Kümmel, G. and Purkayastha, B. (Ed.) Armed Forces and Conflict Resolution: Sociological Perspectives (Contributions to Conflict Management, Peace Economics and Development, Vol. 7), Emerald Group Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 239-256. https://doi.org/10.1016/S1572-8323(08)07013-6