21세기 한국 사회의 세대 논쟁: 세대 갈등에서 세대 게임으로!

Abstract

The ongoing generational debate in Korea is problematic in that new problems are currently unfolding that have yet to be examined by the traditional methods of generational research of Korean society in the 21st century. In Korea's economic situation in the 21st century, the younger generation cannot properly establish itself as a generational subject, which is partially due to the unprecedented political rise of the older generation. In addition, on the surface, the conflict between the younger and the older generations appears to be escalating. The levels of distrust and disgust between the younger and the older generations are becoming serious as the prolonged economic slump continues to point to a bleak outlook for the future. In particular, the generational conflict has emerged as a major conflict in Korean society following the impeachment of the president in the winter of 2016. However, if we examine the current generational conflict in Korea in a sober and rational way, we find that it is being encouraged by certain voices. Above all, the generation of game players with their own political interests are attempting to frame certain issues as generational issues and amplifying the current generational conflict. It is necessary for the public to understand this aspect of the "generational game" and to have a rational, cool-headed approach that involves hesitating and questioning the situation of the generational conflict. In addition, creating interest and understanding for a specific generation by facilitating communication and exchange between generations will serve as the first step toward breaking the vicious cycle of social division and disgust in Korea.