세계화와 선거제도

Abstract

What kind of relations are there between Globalization and Electoral system in Korea? We can resume that the electoral system in Korea has been recently influenced by the global movement of opening: It means the enlargement of participation in election. It is clear that Globalization paved a way for Korean electoral system. Participation rate has increased by establishing a representative organ which actualizes nation's sovereignty. Not only overseas citizens are able to participate in elections but also intensified the principles of universal suffrage by adjusting age limit for the right to vote downward. Age limit for the right to vote became from 20 years old to 19 years old. The number of new voters is more than 700,000. In addition, positive equality has been guaranteed through enlargement of women's political participation. Proportional election voting directly to one’s preferable political party was introduced. Before its amendment, it was up to the votes gathered by all candidates of certain party in each electorate. It was unfavorable to the small parties. Fair criteria and procedures for establishing legislative districts was requested especially but gradually by the Constitutional Court. Other than these, due to growing rate of foreigner residents, voting rights has been admitted though it was as a form of a local autonomous entity. Surely there are some problems putting the new law in force. From technical problems to disproportion between national rights and duties, tax and military, still remain to be solved. If globalization means tolerating and overcoming the differences, the task awaiting a solution will become easier to solve. The enlarged participation in political decision making could contribute to develop the country’s democracy in the future.