The transformation of Confucian family structure and values: A Korean perspective.

초록

This paper examines the Confucian and family structure and values that have been transformed during the last century in Korea. Korea was a traditional agrarian society strongly influenced by Confucian values. The family structure was extended and paternalistic. With modernization of Korea from early 1970’s, the family structure has been significantly altered. Currently, less than 10% of the family maintain the traditional extended family structure and more than 80% of the population live in urban centers. In terms of values, Korean society has not simply adopted Western values but emphasized the future orientated values, focussing on children and achievement. These values are inherent in Confucian philosophy and emerged in modern Korea. Although the vast majority of Koreans live in nuclear family, the relational emphasis and emotional bonds remain strong. Currently, relatives and neighbors play a much less important roles, and friends in school and colleagues at work play a much more significant role. It could be said that schools and work groups have replaced the function of traditional extended family and community