Divergent Models of Covid-19 Pandemic Management and Their International Reception: Cases of China and South Korea


Demir E., Çelik H.

Pamukkale Üniversitesi Sosyal Bilimler Enstitüsü Dergisi, no.56, pp.101-122, 2023 (Peer-Reviewed Journal)

Abstract

The Covid-19 pandemic has presented an extraordinary and unprecedented situation. Countries worldwide have been trying to find the most effective solutions to end the pandemic. Different approaches to combat the virus have emerged. Among these, China has become the prime example of an authoritarian model of virus management, whereas South Korea managed to slow down the pandemic with a liberal approach. The two countries, albeit both highly successful in pandemic management, have different and even contrasting images in the international area. This study analyzes how China’s and Korea’s pandemic management models and their international reception differ from each other. While both models were largely applauded domestically, in the international sphere, China, after early acclaim, ended up with a more negative and controversial image, whereas South Korea created a relatively more positively regarded model. Still, compared to the Korean model, the Chinese model was emulated and implemented by many more countries worldwide.