South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol’s two-day state visit to the Philippines is a cause for great excitement. Over the past years, Koreans have become a mainstay in Filipino pop culture, from the spread of K-pop and K-drama, to the widespread popularity of food items like tteokbokki, bingsu, and samgyeopsal. Today, the influence of Korea is everywhere in the Philippines, from Korean-styled hairstyles spreading among millennials and GenZs, dance moves and songs mimicking those of BTS and Jennie, to the use of Korean beauty products. All part of South Korea’s soft power projection, these developments have given the country a commanding worldwide presence without resorting to territorial disputes or alienating trading partners.
South Korea’s transformation into a global industrial leader is remarkable, given its history. While the Korean War armistice was signed in 1953, the two Koreas still technically remain at war today. Arguably, the constant threat of conflict has fostered a strong sense of patriotism among South Koreans, a trait visible in their 1998 response to the Asian financial crisis. During this time, about 3.5 million South Koreans voluntarily donated their gold possessions—totalling 227 tons, or $2.13 billion—to help repay their country’s IMF debt.
South Korea’s national urgency to excel has also bolstered human capital development, quality education, healthcare provision, and support for creativity and innovation. Conversely, the country’s competitive educational landscape has led to mental health concerns among its younger population. However, these issues pale in comparison to students in the Philippines ranking last in international assessments on literacy, math, and science.
A well-educated population demands accountability and upholds law and order, leading to efficient governance and one of the world’s most efficient justice systems. In South Korea, former presidents, top executives, and conglomerate owners have all been held responsible for their crimes. On rare occasions, individuals like former president Roh Moo-hyun, chose to end their life when accused of corruption, whereas in the Philippines, accused politicians often secure electoral victories despite charges against them.
Being well-educated also raises awareness about taxation and civic responsibilities. However, public understanding of taxes in the Philippines remains low, with people often unaware of the many ways they contribute to the state, including excise taxes. Consequently, public expectations from state officials remain muted.
In stark contrast to South Korea’s efficient functioning and palpable national pride, many features of the Philippines’ governance system tend to be outsourced to the private sector. Examples of this include toll roads, which, while relieving traffic, place additional burdens on workers, add to logistics expenses, and deter domestic tourism.
Moreover, the question of where the taxes go remains. Are they efficiently allocated, or do they end up in the pockets of unproductive bureaucrats or politicians? The fact that billions from people’s money are now allocated to pork barrel, discretionary or non-essential government spending meant to benefit select areas or sectors, is indeed a cause for concern. As it stands, the Supreme Court is yet to respond to activist calls to stop misuse of funds meant for public healthcare and other important public institutions.
Notably, the upcoming visit of President Yoon Suk Yeol has trade and economics at the top of its agenda. Yet, while the Philippines seeks to improve its justice administration system, hopes remain low due to the entrenched interests of the existing political leadership. For now, perhaps the best example of an efficient justice system Filipinos can draw from will remain limited to what can be seen in K-dramas.
