University of Seoul Professor's Book on Korean Economy Named Outstanding Academic Work

A significant academic work co-authored by Professor Park Hoon of the University of Seoul has received national recognition. The book, titled "Korean Economy, Time of Transition I – Innovative Economy and Inclusive Rule of Law," was selected as an outstanding academic book for 2026 by the National Academy of Sciences in the social sciences category.

Published in June 2025, the comprehensive volume brings together 12 prominent economists and legal scholars from South Korea. It delves into critical aspects of the nation's economic landscape, focusing on innovative economic models and the principles of inclusive rule of law. The book aims to foster academic research and contribute to policy discussions surrounding sustainable economic development.

Professor Park Hoon, who also serves as the Vice President for External Cooperation at the University of Seoul, contributed a key chapter titled "Towards an Inclusive Tax System." In this section, he outlines specific reform directions for various tax categories, including income tax, corporate tax, comprehensive real estate tax, value-added tax, and inheritance tax. His proposals emphasize the role of tax systems not merely as a means of fiscal revenue but as a tool for equitable distribution of economic growth and promotion of social integration.

The book's selection as an outstanding academic work underscores its scholarly merit and potential impact. Professor Park expressed his hope that this recognition will lead to the book being more widely utilized in policy formulation and research related to Korea's economic sustainability, particularly in the realm of taxation. The National Academy of Sciences selects outstanding academic books annually to promote research and writing in foundational academic fields.

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It is meaningful that a book created through academic exchange between economists and legal scholars, based on their respective expertise, has received academic recognition. I hope that this selection will lead to this book being more widely used in policy formulation and research for the sustainable growth and development of our economy, especially in the field of taxation.