Progressive Professor Criticizes Ruling Party’s ‘Populist’ Approach

A leading South Korean progressive intellectual, Professor Jin Jung-kwon, has accused the ruling Democratic Party of embracing a dangerous form of populism, warning that their emphasis on ‘direct democracy’ and ‘party membership participation’ risks mirroring the pitfalls of Mao Zedong’s political ideology. Professor Jin, known for his critical views within the progressive camp, expressed his concerns in an interview published in the JoongAng Ilbo newspaper, highlighting the potential for a dangerous disconnect between elite leadership and the public’s will. He warns that history has shown how a focus on direct participation can lead to an unpredictable and ultimately unsustainable path, drawing parallels with China’s historical experience. The professor argues that true progress requires a balanced approach, advocating for a system that combines individual freedom with environmental sustainability and social justice.