Epilogue

Abstract

Reviewing all the chapters of this book, Kim reflects on the implications of such analysis to pursue meaningful, “culturally independent” alternative discourses in social science research applied to the case of Korean modernization. The special focus now is on the assessment of such modernization experiences in terms of developmental value ramifications. Asked if Korean modernization can be considered as a case of relative “success,” Kim cautiously concludes that the answer is only partially “yes.” It has brought about amazing improvements in economic material life but has also yielded results that do not meet the standards of the core development values entailed in the subjective side represented by the quality of life, life chances, social quality, structural flexibility, and upgraded moral-ethical standards.