On January 14, Seoul National University’s Center for Contemporary Korean Studies held an open seminar titled “How Inequality Leads to Social Polarization and Democratic Backsliding” as part of its regular open seminar series. The seminar focused on the relationship between deepening economic inequality and social and political polarization in contemporary society, and included discussion of recent political and social changes in Korea.

The seminar was attended by students and researchers interested in political economy and contemporary Korean society, drawing such strong interest that the lecture room was filled to capacity.

The featured presentation was delivered by Professor Emeritus Hagen Koo of the University of Hawai‘i, who spoke on social and political polarization and democratic backsliding in advanced industrial societies today. The lecture explained how structures of inequality in Korean society have led to social conflict and political division, as well as the recent patterns of change emerging in Korea. Professor Koo also examined the relationship between inequality and democracy through a range of cases, offering a broader discussion of the challenges facing contemporary society.

Although the subsequent Q&A session was limited in length due to time constraints, students in particular showed strong interest in the topic. Participants continued to ask questions after the presentation, demonstrating lively engagement with the issues discussed.

The seminar was conducted in English, and provided participants with an opportunity to reflect together on inequality in contemporary society and the changing conditions of democracy.