국제개발에서 한국농촌개발의 외부 도전에 대한 도전

Abstract

This essay explores the need to find a turning point for the Korean rural international development model, which was originally driven by the Saemaul Undong (New Village Movement) in the 1970s. The Korean government introduced this model to raise peasants’ household incomes during the 1970s, but there is a mismatch between this 20th century phenomenon and the 21st century trend of realizing diverse values. Even though this programme, focusing on economic achievement, could be acceptable for a sustainable development agenda, the challenges in rural international development in Korea necessitate a new scheme. To examine this point, this article analyses Korean rural development evolving from Saemaul Undong. First, the trajectory of Korean rural development policy after independence is summarized: How were programmes organized and managed? The term ‘living well’, suggested by the Saemaul Undong of the 1970s, included economic value; however, the goal of rural development in Korea has changed to encompass the quality of life and covers diverse values. For this reason, the practice of Saemaul international development faces new challenges. Second, we consider the limitations of the Korean Official Development Assistance (ODA) programme. The practice of Saemaul ODA for recipient countries targets the alleviation of economic poverty, which was also highlighted in the modernization of rural development in the 1970s. Therefore, the application of current trends for the new millennium is required. The merits and drawbacks of the Saemaul international development programme are examined in light of current challenges. Despite Korean policy receiving positive opinions for its lack of involvement in obtaining international hegemony in the international development market, the negative side also suggests the elimination of indigenous values. This programme has incited domestic complaints because of its economic-centered frame. Finally, it is necessary to adjust the meaning of ‘living well’ to suit the 21st century in response to the external challenges that enforce rural community values.