Understanding Korean Politics

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/understanding-korean-politics

Introduction

### Course Review: Understanding Korean Politics on Coursera If you are looking to delve deeply into the complexities of Korean politics, the Coursera course *Understanding Korean Politics* offers an outstanding opportunity for students and professionals alike. Tailored for those who wish to comprehend the various facets of Korea's political landscape through interactive learning, this course is structured around six significant issues that shape contemporary Korean politics. #### Course Overview *Understanding Korean Politics* is designed to provide participants with a robust framework for analyzing the historical, cultural, and institutional aspects of the political system in Korea. Each week focuses on a specific theme derived from the rich tapestry of South Korea’s political journey, effectively blending historical context with modern political analysis. #### Detailed Syllabus Breakdown 1. **Korean Politics in Historical Perspective (Week 1)** This introductory week sets the stage by outlining the historical narrative from the 1st to the 6th Republic, culminating with the dramatic democratic transition in 1987. With this foundational knowledge, learners get to appreciate the evolution of Korean political structures and the unique characteristics that inform current events. 2. **Dynamics of Democratic Transition in South Korea (Week 2)** Building on this historical context, Week 2 delves into the intricacies of South Korea’s democratic transition. The course covers key concepts and frameworks that influenced this evolution, giving students a comprehensive understanding of the political legacies and the factors that propelled democratic consolidation. 3. **Political Institutions in South Korea (Week 3)** Participants will explore the constitutional foundations of South Korea, dissecting its evolution through constitutional amendments and the structure of government. This week is essential for grasping how political institutions function within South Korea’s unique presidential system. 4. **Profiles of Political Leadership (Week 4)** Week 4 takes a closer look at individual political figures such as Rhee Syngman, Park Chung-hee, and Kim Dae-jung. This segment encourages critical thinking about political leadership in South Korea, emphasizing leadership styles, achievements, and impacts on the country's direction. 5. **The Developmental State and the Korean Economic Miracle (Week 5)** One of the course highlights, this week addresses South Korea's economic evolution, tracking its rise from the original conditions to its significant economic breakthroughs and subsequent crises. It challenges students to think about the implications of the developmental state model and its relevance today. 6. **Debates on Korean Unification (Week 6)** In the final week, the focus shifts to the contentious issue of Korean unification. Through studying inter-Korean relations and evaluating policies like the Sunshine policy, students engage in discussions that reflect on the future of Korea as a unified nation. #### Learning Experience Throughout the course, the balance between theoretical frameworks and empirical realities ensures that learners not only grasp academic concepts but also understand the practical implications of these theories in a contemporary context. The interactive format provides opportunities for discussion, facilitating a more profound exchange of ideas and perspectives. #### Recommendation *Understanding Korean Politics* is highly recommendable for those interested in political science, East Asian studies, or international relations. Whether you are a student, a researcher, or someone seeking to expand your knowledge, this course provides a well-rounded and comprehensive approach to an often-overlooked yet critical region in global politics. The insights gained here will be invaluable for anyone looking to engage with current issues surrounding Korea. By studying these pivotal themes, participants will emerge with a nuanced understanding of South Korean politics and its broader implications, making this course a rewarding educational venture. Don't miss the opportunity to explore these vital topics that resonate deeply not only in Korea but across the globe.

Syllabus

Korean Politics in Historical Perspective

During Week 1, leaners will have an overview of Korean Politics which includes past history, the presidents and the main historical events during the 1st to the 6th Republic, and the democratic transition in 1987. The first week will help learners develop a fundamental understanding of the historical development of Korean Politics and lead leaners to think what makes Korean Politics new and interesting.

Week 2 will first summarizes the four legacies of South Korea’s politics from 1948 to 1987 and introduce the major concepts and models of democratic transition. Second, it will give a clear and detailed explanation about South Korea’s democratic transition which includes the transition dynamics, the determinants of democratic transition and the democratic consolidation.

Week 3 will start with the explanation of institution including its concept, types and major issues. In the second part, the lecture will expound South Korea’s constitutional foundation and its evolution, focusing on its nine constitutional amendments. Then it will talk about the structure and features of South Korean government, also it will briefly introduce South Korea’s presidential system which will be further explained in next week.

Week 4 will mainly talk about the political leadership. The lecture will first give the definition, types and evaluation criteria of political leadership. Then it will evaluate President Rhee Syngman, Park Chung-hee and Kim Dae-jung by using the criteria given in the first part and lead leaners to discuss the unique pattern of South Korean leadership.

Week 5 will give leaners a very clear explanation of South Korean economic development, including its original conditions, economic take-off and economic crisis. Then the lecture will talk about the limits of developmental state and lead leaners to discuss about the future of South Korean economy.

The main topic of week 6 is Korean unification. The lecture will start with explanation of inter-Korean relationship to help learners form a better understanding towards Korean unification. Then it will expound and evaluate the Sunshine policy. And the last part will have learners discuss about the future of Inter-Korean relations and unification.