"Europe is currently experiencing economic decline, which can lead to dissatisfaction and frustration. South Korea needs to reflect on its strengths, which are highly regarded by the outside world, and maintain its course."
Lee Jun, Honorary Chairman of the French Chamber of Commerce in Korea and Chairman of the European think tank KEY (Korea Europe & You), emphasized in a recent written interview that the ongoing anti-government protests in France and other parts of Europe are rooted in economic decline. He urged South Korea to continue its policy direction focused on strengthening its economic fundamentals. Furthermore, he suggested that South Korean companies should actively seek opportunities for cooperation with Europe amid the current geopolitical changes.
The protests in France, which began last month when students demanded improvements in educational conditions, have expanded to include young people and workers dissatisfied with high prices, youth unemployment, polarization, immigration issues, and fiscal reforms. Over the course of about a month, the protests have spread across France, leading to incidents of arson, looting, and riots, becoming a serious social issue. Similar protests have also erupted in major European countries such as Italy, Spain, and Portugal, raising the possibility of widespread anti-government demonstrations across Europe.
Having witnessed the protests firsthand last week in France, Lee stated, "The prevailing sentiment in French society is one of shock. The French people are horrified and saddened by the violence they have witnessed, particularly the scenes of looting, and they feel at a loss for what to do." He added, "This is more accurately described as looting and violent acts by organized groups rather than political riots."
He further noted, "This unrest exists within a larger context. Since President Emmanuel Macron dissolved the parliament, France has faced ongoing instability in its cabinet and politics, making governance increasingly difficult. There has been little room for policies that enjoy public support to take root."
Despite the French authorities' response to the protests, Lee predicted that additional demonstrations are planned, and violence is occurring among organized groups, suggesting that the protests and political instability could continue into the presidential election cycle in April next year.
Regarding the upcoming French presidential election, he analyzed that the current protest situation is favorable for the far-right National Rally (RN) led by Marine Le Pen. He explained, "A significant number of French citizens view this unrest as indirectly connected to immigration and integration issues, and the only party that has consistently raised these issues over the past few years is the National Rally," highlighting the reasons for the far-right's strength.
Society Shaken by Economic Uncertainty; Flexible Democracy Needed
France is a cornerstone of modern democracy and a representative democratic nation in Europe. The current protests have led to analyses suggesting a crisis in the French social model and democracy. The high-burden, high-welfare social policies that once characterized France have lost their strength amid economic difficulties, and the rise of far-right and far-left forces advocating extreme solutions has made healthy societal development increasingly challenging.
However, Lee clarified that despite the current popularity of far-right forces, not all of France has succumbed to extremism. He stated, "The French people value the proper functioning of state institutions and democracy. However, many are exhausted. They feel that the country is deeply ill and that fundamental remedies are now necessary."
He added, "Some are talking about the end of the French social model, but I believe that is an exaggerated analysis. The social model will not be abandoned. However, the people are demanding that this model be subject to stricter standards, more management, and adjustments to align with the realities of the country and the economy."
Lee pointed out that democracy is becoming increasingly difficult to govern not only in France but also in many countries due to challenges in maintaining order and authority, discrepancies between the pace of social change and political action, and distrust in existing systems. He suggested that democracy should evolve to be "more practical, flexible, and attentive to citizens' voices."
Fundamental Issue is the Economy; South Korea Must Maintain Strong Economic Advantages
The social turmoil in France has significant implications for South Korea as well. This year marks the 140th anniversary of diplomatic relations between South Korea and France, with mutual state visits by the leaders of both countries and an elevation of their diplomatic relationship to a "global strategic partnership," highlighting the importance of France's changing situation for South Korea. Like France, South Korea faces similar challenges, including high prices, youth unemployment, fiscal burdens, and pressures from U.S.-China competition, making France's crisis and response a crucial reference point for South Korea.
Lee acknowledged that while it is difficult to make direct comparisons between the two countries, South Korea must reflect on and maintain its strengths. He identified social order, the value of education and labor, a solid industrial base, and a robust economy as South Korea's advantages.
He emphasized, "While it may seem distant from protests or social unrest, the economy is like the lungs of a nation," urging South Korea to continue its policies aimed at strengthening economic fundamentals. He diagnosed the protests in major European countries like Italy and Spain as stemming from rising prices and declining purchasing power, making daily life increasingly difficult.
Looking ahead to the French presidential election next year, Lee predicted that regardless of changes in government, close diplomatic and economic cooperation between South Korea and France will continue. He stated, "I believe there is no reason for South Korea to be concerned. Regardless of the election outcome, the foundations of the French state will remain intact, and relations with South Korea will continue under the same conditions as now." He acknowledged concerns that a radical government might adopt a more protectionist foreign policy, but he noted that even with a change in government, as seen in Italy, relations with South Korea would not be adversely affected. He pointed to Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who was perceived as far-right before taking office but has focused on a pragmatic approach and actively sought cooperation with South Korea since assuming power.
Moreover, Lee advised that South Korea should seize the current changes in the European landscape as an opportunity to enhance cooperation with Europe. He urged South Korean companies to deeply understand the changes in Europe and build close relationships with the new ruling powers, emphasizing that this approach would benefit both businesses and national interests.
He concluded, "South Korea must recognize that it has much to contribute to Europe. Europe needs partners beyond China and the United States, which opens up greater opportunities and possibilities for South Korea."
Lee Jun, born in Paris, is the first Korean lawyer in France and has served as the first chairman of the foreign chamber of commerce in Korea. He is recognized as an authoritative expert on French and European issues. The grandson of Lee In, the first Minister of Justice of South Korea, and the son of Professor Lee Ok, who established Korean studies at a French university, Lee has made significant contributions to Korea-France exchanges across generations. He founded the European think tank KEY in 2023 to focus on research activities aimed at developing Korea-Europe relations.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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