Amid Political Distrust, Why Do Young People Engage in Politics?

• In Event: (De)Mobilizing the Alienated and Discontent

Abstract

In recent years, voter participation among the youth in South Korea has been on the rise. This interesting phenomenon occurs amid a high level of distrust in the executive and legislative branches. Despite the increasing political skepticism, why is there a gradual increase in youth voter participation? This study attempts a longitudinal analysis of the voting turnout among Korean youth since the democratization in 1987. While previous research points out the political distrust among Korean youth, it fails to address the contrasting trend of increasing political participation. Moreover, explaining youth political participation solely through specific political events such as impeachment does not account for the sustained growth in voter turnout. Therefore, this study tracks the increase in voting turnout and political participation among the youth in South Korea from a longitudinal perspective. It is anticipated that this case study will contribute insights not only to the interpretation of the recent surge in political participation among American youth but also to the broader understanding of similar trends worldwide.

Authors

• Gi Woo Roh, sogang university

• Chan Song Kim, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee