Korea’s Growth Paradox: The Dichotomy between Economic Success and Deterioration of Women’s Health Restricted; Files & ToC

Abstract

The development of South Korea over the last forty years has been nothing short of a miracle, transforming from a war-torn country still recovering from Japanese Imperialism to a first world country focusing on export-oriented industrialization. This transformation can largely be accredited to strong government intervention promoting economic growth, that despite its benefits, has come at a large cost.

Despite its robust economic and medical infrastructure, South Korea has remarkably poor women's health standards. This phenomena diverges from typical demographic models and can be explained by the South Korean government's prioritization of state-building and economic development over the social welfare of women. This mindset has led to unsustainable economic growth that has long reaching repercussions on the health of Korean women.

This thesis aims to not only analyze the health outcomes of Korean women, but also aims to provide more of a complete picture into the possible causes and implications of such health standards. In order to do this, I (1) analyse the current disparities in South Korea’s women's health system, (2) delve into the historical and contemporary factors that have contributed to these disparities, and (3) theorize the implications of this poor health, both in South Korea and on the greater Korean diaspora. 

My research was conducted by analyzing a variety of interdisciplinary sources, not limited to historical studies, health science data, ethnographic studies on former Korean sex workers, and public opinion surveys. By doing so, I aim to provide a more comprehensive look into the health of Korean women, a topic that is multifaceted and influenced by a variety of social, historical, biological and political factors.

Table of Contents

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About this Honors Thesis

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School	Emory College
Department	East Asian Studies
Degree	B.A.
Submission	Honors Thesis
Language	English
Research Field	Asian Studies Sociology, Public and Social Welfare Health Sciences, Public Health
Palabra Clave	Women's Health Economic Policy Reproductive Health
Committee Chair / Thesis Advisor	Hwisang Cho, Emory University
Committee Members	Sarah Rodriguez, Emory University Cheryl Crowley, Emory University Seth Goss, Emory University

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