Abstract
In this paper the role of Dongsong associations in urban Korea is examined through the changes of levels and contemporary functions. Two levels of Dongsong associations are identified. One is Jongchinhae, which constitutes the upper layer of Dongsong association network. Jongchinhae is based on unfamiliar membership, so that it can be called as an “inclusive Dongsong association”. The other is a sub-group of Jongchinhae, based on face-to face relationship and brings feeling of relief to each other. Therefore, this level of Dongsong association can be called as a “segmental Dongsong association”.
Also in this paper, identification of urban residents to Dongsong associations is examined.As a result, the Dongsong associations in urban Korea could be defined as an “Association for Identification”. The author believes that this concept can contribute as an analytical tool to comparative studies of urbanization in non-occidental societies.
