South Korea is facing a profound disconnect between its youth and the political establishment. The recent withdrawal of gender equality and family minister nominee Yong Hye-in highlights this growing divide. Yong, a 36-year-old politician, was seen by many young Koreans as a regressive figure, more aligned with the older political elite than with the values and sentiments of the younger generation.
The ruling Democratic Party’s handling of Yong’s nomination and subsequent withdrawal reveals a deeper issue: the political establishment’s insensitivity toward the concerns and aspirations of young people. This insensitivity is not limited to individual politicians but is systemic, affecting policies and attitudes across the government.
The Youth Disconnect: A Systemic Issue
The political establishment’s disconnect with young people is evident in various policies and actions. For instance, the Cho Kuk scandal, which involved irregularities in children’s college admissions, outraged young Koreans. The establishment’s dismissive attitude toward such issues reflects a broader lack of understanding of the younger generation’s values and priorities.
Policies supposedly designed for young people often miss the mark. Examples include proposals for housing made from discarded buses and allowing bathtubs in tiny goshiwon rooms. These gestures, intended to address housing shortages, are seen as superficial and ineffective by young Koreans who are struggling with rising home prices and limited employment opportunities.
The Employment Crisis
The youth employment rate in South Korea has been falling for 28 consecutive months, dropping below 60 percent for the first time in five years. This alarming trend underscores the urgent need for effective policies to support young job seekers. However, the government’s response has been lackluster, focusing on short-term solutions rather than addressing the root causes of unemployment.
Burnout is a significant issue among jobless Korean youth, with half reporting psychological exhaustion before landing a job. Structural problems in the labor market, such as scarce good jobs and the prevalence of short-term, low-paying positions, contribute to this crisis. The average time it takes for young adults to land their first paid job has lengthened to 13.5 months, further exacerbating frustration and helplessness.
The Demographic Challenge
South Korea is also grappling with a demographic shift that poses significant economic and social challenges. The country entered the super-aged category in late 2024, with seniors reaching 20 percent of the population. This trend is expected to continue, with the old-age dependency ratio projected to hit 81.6 by 2060. Managing this demographic change requires comprehensive reforms across labor, welfare, and fiscal policy.
To address these challenges, South Korea needs to redesign its institutions for a society with fewer workers and a greater demand for pensions and care. This includes updating the labor market to encourage older workers to stay economically active and providing stronger protection for the poor elderly. Additionally, policies should focus on easing the structural economic pressures that deter young adults from starting families.
The political establishment must recognize the urgent need for change and take decisive action to bridge the gap between the youth and the government. This requires a fundamental shift in attitude and a commitment to policies that truly address the concerns and aspirations of young people.
