The New Age of Korea — Embracing Change and Letting Go of the Past
Change is the only constant in life, as the saying goes, and it is as applicable to nations as it is to individuals. South Korea has just taken a significant step towards change, one that aligns its cultural norms with international standards, while also challenging and transforming the very fabric of its society. The government recently passed a law that shifts the nation’s age calculation system, making Koreans a year or two younger, essentially overnight. This reform, however, is far more than a mere mathematical adjustment; it’s an emblematic shift that promises to echo through various aspects of Korean society.
In South Korea, age has traditionally been counted in a way quite distinct from the rest of the world. According to the centuries-old system, a newborn baby was considered one year old at birth, and everyone gained another year every New Year’s Day, regardless of their birthday. This unique practice meant that a baby born on New Year’s Eve would, quite remarkably, be considered two years old as soon as the clock struck midnight.
Adopting the new law that calculates age based on the date of birth, South Korea is now parting ways with this long-standing tradition. The question is, why has this change been made now? The answer lies in a combination of practical needs and societal evolution, which have culminated in the desire to reduce the unnecessary social and economic costs engendered by the old system. Significantly, this change has been met with open arms by a majority of Koreans.
One of the most compelling reasons for the transition is the confusion and disputes the traditional system has caused over the years. The age-related inconsistencies have affected a wide range of issues, from determining eligibility for government assistance programs to the minimum qualifying age for children to receive the COVID-19 vaccination. This confusion has not only created social tension but also resulted in administrative and legal complications. By aligning with the international standard, South Korea is aiming to bring clarity to these processes and, in turn, reduce societal discord and friction.
Secondly, the change is a reflection of the evolving societal mindset and the desire to break away from a hierarchical culture that the traditional age system seemed to reinforce. Critics have argued that the old method contributed to ageism, evidenced in the complex Korean language system based on age and in individuals feeling “socially older” than they actually were. Some South Koreans have expressed relief at the change, sharing that the traditional system made them feel older than their peers born in the same year but earlier. This new law, therefore, can help dismantle these age-old structures and steer society towards a more egalitarian future.
The shift also represents an effort to align with global norms. South Korea’s unique age system made the country seem out of sync with the rest of the world, often leading to confusion in international contexts. The adoption of the international age-counting method enables Koreans to better engage in global interactions without having to explain their ‘Korean age’. This alignment with international standards is a reflection of South Korea’s global technological and cultural influence and its desire to streamline its international interactions.
However, the change is not without its complexities. Certain aspects of the old system will remain, like determining the year for legal purchases of alcohol and tobacco, entering compulsory education, or being eligible for military service. This could potentially lead to a hybrid system that maintains some level ofconfusion. The ongoing existence of these exceptions also reflects the challenges inherent in uprooting a deeply ingrained cultural practice.
Yet, the overwhelming acceptance of the change by the populace suggests an optimism that outweighs these potential difficulties. A government survey showed that 86% of South Koreans would adopt the international system in their everyday lives after the new law takes effect, indicating a willingness to embrace this change. Moreover, the reactions of ordinary South Koreans have been mostly positive, with many expressing joy over becoming ‘younger’ and looking forward to the social and cultural changes this shift might bring.
The South Korean age system reform is a testament to the nation’s capacity for evolution and modernization. It underlines the willingness of a society to challenge its traditions for the sake of progress and international standardization. The shift is not just about how Koreans count their age, but it’s a statement about how they see themselves in relation to the world.
However, traditions hold a strong place in a country’s cultural identity, and complete transformation doesn’t come overnight. The remaining exceptions that use the old system serve as a reminder of this fact. Moving forward, it will be interesting to observe how these remnants of the past coexist with the new age-counting method and how South Korea navigates this transitional period.
In conclusion, the change in the age-counting system in South Korea is a significant development that signals a societal and cultural shift. The country is not just aligning its age calculation method with the global standard but is also addressing the societal issues tied to the old system. While the transformation might bring its own set of challenges, the broad public support for the move speaks volumes about the nation’s readiness to adapt and progress. It is indeed a new age for Korea, a transition from the old to the new, a step into a future that promises to blend tradition and modernity in its unique way.
