Applying the Concept of Cultural Inclusion Based on Empathy and Relational Practices

Wednesday, 9 July 2025: 20:00
Location: SJES012 (Faculty of Legal, Economic, and Social Sciences (JES))
Oral Presentation
ByungMin LEE, Konkuk University, South Korea
This study aims to expand the implications of urban inclusion by adding relationality along with territoriality, and to present a conceptualization model of “cultural inclusion” that is organically linked to social inclusion. This will help to present a conceptualization model of “cultural inclusion” that expands the idea of urban inclusion by comparing it to social inclusion, which is a conceptualization model of “cultural inclusion” that expands the idea of urban inclusion. Cultural inclusion can be linked to the need for relationships, the connection of spaces, the formation of organic and learning relationships based on the process of action through deeds, the creation of openness centered on public spaces, and the practice of various actors. This will help us to see how cultural inclusion, which is organically linked to social inclusion, is differentiated by its connection to the theme of empathy and how it is expressed in public spaces. Specifically, I will apply the concept of cultural inclusion to the case of South Korea. For example, Ie will apply the concept of cultural inclusion to the case of Hongdae-ap in Seoul, South Korea, where many young people gather. In recent years, Hongdae-ap has been characterized by the creation of an environment that protects the diversity of individual actors and groups (artists, residents, pavilions, students, cultural activists, citizens, tourists, etc.), the formation of public spaces such as 'Hongdae-ap Playground,' 'Walkable Street,' and 'Gyeongui-seon Book Street,' and social network services and horizontal networks and access to each other. This will allow us to explore how open spaces, horizontal networks, and social relationships contribute to inclusive urban environments. This research is significant because it explores the impact of urbanization, social exclusion, and cultural practices on community interactions, while highlighting the importance of empathy and relationship dynamics in overcoming social barriers.