The Meaning of Peace and the Role of Education in South Korea.

N

19

Conflict; Foreign Countries; International Cooperation; International Relations; Peace; Role of Education; Terrorism; World Affairs; World Problems

Most people in South Korea expressed deep sympathy for the innocent victims of the September 11th attacks, but, unlike their government's official position that supported U.S. military action, many were opposed to the war the United States began in Afghanistan. The president asked for emphasis on peace and anti-terrorism education. Since the role of education has been stressed in every moment of crisis in South Korean history, it was only natural to think about what education could do to focus the world on peace, to reduce social conflicts, and to seek a more secure life. This paper does not focus upon why terrorists commit such massacres in a political and historical context, but acknowledges that suicidal terror, the U.S. war against Afghanistan, and the ensuing tension in the Middle East create conflicts among different groups with contrasting interests. The paper reviews a number of overt and covert factors that could cause serious conflicts inside and outside Korea. It addresses social conflicts that South Koreans face when determining relationships with others such as foreign workers, North Korea, and Japan. The paper examines what educational role should be used in these contexts. It introduces educational efforts improving international and intercultural understanding and contributing to peace and coexistence, discusses the limits of existing programs for peace education, and looks for other possibilities. (Contains 12 notes and 27 references.) (BT)

2004

ED477152