Professor Song Ho-keun: 'Hostile politics' intensified after '86 generation entered politics, only citizens suffer'

Song Ho-keun, a distinguished professor at Hallym University, has sharply criticized the current state of South Korean politics, arguing that the rise of "hostile politics" is a direct consequence of the '86 generation's increasing influence in the political sphere. This generation, defined by their activism during the 1980s democratization movement, has, according to Song, significantly exacerbated political antagonism since entering national politics.

Speaking at a National Assembly forum on "The Cleansing and Proposals for Hostile Politics," Song elaborated on his views. He contends that the political landscape has become increasingly confrontational, with the '86 generation's political ascent marking a turning point towards more aggressive partisan conflict. The professor's remarks underscore a growing concern within South Korea about the nature of political discourse and its impact on national cohesion.

The forum, organized by People Power Party lawmaker Kwon Young-se, provided a platform for discussing solutions to the entrenched political animosity. Song's analysis suggests a generational dynamic at play, linking the intensity of current political disputes to the legacy and political practices of those who led the country's transition to democracy.