EURO 2025 Leeds
Abstract Submission

2750. Aging Welfare Policies in the UK and South Korea: Diverging Paths of Individual Responsibility and State Intervention

Invited abstract in session MC-49: Analytics and the link with stochastic dynamics 1, stream Analytics.

Monday, 12:30-14:00
Room: Parkinson B10

Authors (first author is the speaker)

1. Jisu Kang
MIS, Dong-A University
2. Kangbae Lee
Management Information Systems, Dong-A University
3. MINHO RYU
MIS, Dong-A University
4. Sungho Park
MIS, Donga unversity
5. Ham Seunghoon
MIS, DongA-university
6. Jeeseung Han
MIS,
7. Hyeonji Hwang
MIS, Dong-A University
8. Siyeon Lee
Management Information System, Dong-A University

Abstract

This study compares welfare policy changes in response to population aging in the UK and South Korea. Despite similar demographic challenges, these countries have pursued contrasting approaches shaped by their distinct socio-cultural contexts. The UK shifted from post-war welfare expansion toward neoliberal reforms emphasizing individual responsibility and market solutions. South Korea transitioned from family-centered care to state-led welfare expansion, notably through long-term care insurance introduction.
The UK's reforms prioritized cost reduction and efficiency through healthcare and pension privatization, achieving fiscal objectives but creating increased social inequalities and individual welfare burdens. South Korea's approach institutionalized state responsibility through social insurance expansion, responding to rapid family structure changes. However, significant family financial burdens and regional service disparities remain challenging.
These contrasting trajectories offer valuable insights for other welfare states. The UK case demonstrates both benefits and limitations of market-centered approaches, while South Korea illustrates possibilities and sustainability concerns of state welfare expansion. The comparison reveals that effective aging policy requires balancing individual responsibility with collective support, suggesting the need for continuous institutional adaptation and social consensus-building in addressing demographic transitions.

Keywords

Status: accepted

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