Позитивные изменения. Том 4, №1 (2024). Positive changes. Volume 4, Issue 1 (2024)

3. Case studies.

4. Discussion.

5. Lectures.

It’s noteworthy that only the last block, the fifth one, represents the purely “knowledgebased” component of the training program. The other four involve various levels of practical immersion. This approach aligns with the movement's motto: “Saemaul Movement — Action and Practice.”[124]

Saemaul’s training programs primarily address those immediate challenges that are invariably faced by each of the participants. Screenings of films showcasing successful cases, field trips to other villages and businesses, and the exchange of experiences among participants all aim to bring training as close as possible to the practical realities of new leaders and to motivate and inspire them with stories of success of those already on the path.

Equally important is that training doesn’t end with participants receiving certificates. Ongoing support is provided to graduates, not merely to monitor outcomes, but to assist in resolving complex and conflictual situations inevitable during the implementation of new practices in established village life.

Understanding this factor through the lens of psychology can be framed in terms of Albert Bandura’s theory of social learning. Observing others’ successes can influence perceptions of one’s own abilities, while people’s beliefs about their capabilities shape those very abilities.[125]

The inspirational component stands as a cornerstone in the contemporary international “franchise” of the movement. On one hand, it recounts the Republic of Korea’s success story in rural development, courtesy of the Saemaul movement. On the other, active efforts are made to provide support to project leaders and participants, aimed at bolstering their self-confidence and capacity to improve their territory. This component, grounded in patterns observed by Bandura, appears to be a primary driver of effectiveness. Examining experiences with implementing community development programs in rural areas — such as the Solidarity Communities program[126] — suggests a potential area for growth: increasing the incorporation of inspirational narratives from successful experiences (this component is not as pronounced in them), which could enhance the efficacy of such programs.

DISCIPLINE

In psychology, discipline is explored within the context of outward behavioral displays (compliance with externally imposed demands) and internal attitudes (compliance with self-imposed standards). External demonstrations of discipline may stem from social pressures, but a disciplined mindset is a conscious behavior, irrespective of changing circumstances[127].

History has proven that the citizens of the Republic of Korea stand unrivaled in their demonstration of discipline. Here, in the birthplace of K-pop and Hallyu (the ’Korean Wave’ phenomenon), dozens of pop idols and esports champions are annually molded in strikingly similar fashion — through talent incubators. Following rigorous, if not cruel, selection processes, these young talents sign meticulously regulated contracts, binding their futures to the directives of their production companies. Amidst an atmosphere of ironclad discipline and respect authority, they undergo relentless, highly intensive training sessions aimed at realizing their objectives within specific timeframes.[128]

A glance at the daily regimen of the early leaders of the Saemaul movement reveals striking parallels: “Course participants rose early each morning. At 6 a.m., they assembled in formation on the grounds, saluted the national flag, and sang the anthem, followed by a two-kilometer run. Upon return, they completed requisite hygiene routines (closely monitored), then had breakfast promptly at 7. Lectures commenced at 8, often prefaced by a volunteer sharing success stories from their village. Discussions began at 9, with a particular emphasis on real-life examples of the New Village Movement’s successful implementation. Throughout the day, attendees watched films related to the movement, played soccer or volleyball, and embarked on excursions to nearby villages or rural industries. Physical labor involvement was also encouraged. Evenings were dedicated to discussions.”[129]

Still today in Korea, one can often encounter the so-called dawn bells. Known as Saemaul Bells in English, or the bells of the new village, these traditional Korean bells marked the start of the labor day with their resounding chime at dawn. Unlike their European counterparts, Asian bells often lack internal tongues, though they share a similar shape, resembling inverted bowls. Consequently, their sounds are produced differently, either by striking it with a nearby suspended log or using specialized mallets. These bells remain in village museums, preserving the history of Korean rural life.