The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about unprecedented changes in various aspects of our lives, including how we work, socialize, and access essential services. In the legal sector, the pandemic has highlighted the need for more streamlined and efficient processes that can withstand the challenges of remote work and social distancing. As we navigate through the post-pandemic era, it is clear that the legal profession will play a critical role in shaping our society’s future. With this in mind, the demand for legal expertise is growing, and the number of law schools and graduates has increased significantly. This surge in interest in legal education and practice in the post-pandemic era is what is informally being referred to as K-law bloom, and this article will explore its implications.
In the post-pandemic era, it is evident that Korea’s legislative exchange and cooperation are blooming, according to Minister of Government Legislation, Lee Wan-kyu. In his opinion piece, he describes how the COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way we live our everyday lives, but the end of the pandemic is in sight. As mask mandates have been lifted and flights have resumed, people are eager to explore and travel overseas. Thus, the Ministry of Government Legislation (MOLEG) has been actively promoting legislative cooperation by signing memoranda of understanding with different countries since 2006.
Due to the prolonged pandemic, MOLEG had to cooperate with other countries in a contactless manner through online seminars and video meetings. However, as the situation is starting to return to normal, legislative activities can take place face-to-face. Last year, the 11th Asian Legislative Experts Symposium (ALES) was attended by legislative experts from Indonesia, Thailand, Mongolia, and Uzbekistan, both in person and virtually. This year, MOLEG plans to accelerate these endeavors by meeting and interacting with countries on a more personal level. Cambodia and Thailand have already requested visits to MOLEG to learn Korea’s know-how on legislative administration.
Korea’s laws and systems have been developed and become a benchmark for many countries, especially in Asia. MOLEG has signed 31 memoranda of understanding with 16 countries, and it is expected that Korea’s legislative experience will penetrate the legal systems and other major systems of various societies. The ultimate goal is to create a Korean-friendly environment in terms of legislation.
Lee believes that despite the pandemic’s impact, cooperative activities that were conducted without face-to-face interaction but produced meaningful results will generate bountiful achievements in the post-pandemic era. MOLEG will continue to make every effort to spread K-law across Asia actively.
Overall, Lee’s opinion piece illustrates Korea’s dedication to promoting legislative exchange and cooperation with other countries, despite the pandemic’s hindrance. As the situation improves, face-to-face interactions will pave the way for more meaningful and fruitful collaborations.
