COVID-19, Familism, and South Korean Governance

The book "Controlling the COVID-19 Pandemic in South Korea: The Role of Familism" explores how South Korea's success in controlling the COVID-19 pandemic was driven by a focus on family and familism, rather than individual self-centered egos. It suggests that familism projected the state as an extension of the family, contributing to the country's effective response to the crisis.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 64 pages
Publication date: 31 May 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The government of South Korea has achieved remarkable success in its COVID-19 response, despite often prioritizing family-focused investments over broader social goals. The author challenges Western cultural biases in crisis management theories and argues that the key to South Korea's success lies in its focus on family and familism, which views the state as an extension of the family. While a combination of factors contributed to the country's successful management of the pandemic, familism played a significant role.

The book will be of interest to scholars and students in governance, crisis management, civil society, citizens' participation in public administration, international relations, Asian studies, cultural studies, and Confucianism.

The author's approach emphasizes the importance of understanding and leveraging cultural values and traditions in responding to crises. By focusing on family and familism, South Korea was able to mobilize its citizens and resources effectively, implementing strict social distancing measures, widespread testing, and contact tracing. The government also provided financial support to individuals and businesses affected by the pandemic, demonstrating a commitment to the well-being of its citizens.

Furthermore, South Korea's success can be attributed to its strong public health infrastructure, which allowed for rapid response and effective containment of the virus. The country's healthcare system is well-equipped and has a high capacity for testing and treatment, which helped in identifying and isolating infected individuals. Additionally, South Korea's culture of discipline and respect for authority played a role in compliance with public health guidelines, as citizens followed instructions and adhered to social distancing measures.

In conclusion, the book provides valuable insights into the factors that contributed to South Korea's successful COVID-19 response. By highlighting the role of family and familism, the author challenges Western cultural biases and emphasizes the importance of cultural values and traditions in crisis management. The book will be of interest to scholars and students seeking to understand the complexities of governance, public administration, and the impact of cultural factors on public health outcomes.

Weight: 145g
Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032147178