Perception and Impact of the Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake in Korea Society

The 1995 Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake deeply affected Korean society, recalling the 1923 Kanto Earthquake massacre. Korean media covered the disaster and historical reflection extensively, amplifying public response. The Korean government sent $1 million in relief supplies, a humanitarian first, while private aid, including medical teams, expanded. This led to the 1996 Natural Disaster Countermeasures Act and the 2009 Korean Disaster Medical Support Team, based on Japan’s DMAT. Kobe Port’s restoration shaped Busan New Port’s development, transforming urban planning. Korean DMAT’s aid during the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake advanced international cooperation. Hanshin’s lessons guided the 2017 Pohang Earthquake response, highlighting social solidarity. Japan’s resilience strategies influenced Korean policy. The earthquake was a turning point for Korea’s disaster preparedness, urban regeneration, and global cooperation.