The thing is; I think that it still IS relevant in Korea, as you still see streets like this prosper in smaller towns. The problem lies with the western obsessionism, and the the cultural aspect of "face." The government, especially in cities like Seoul, want to promote being "modern" (western) as for them, it makes them feel like they are a leading nation, and wealthy. There have been A LOT of changes in this regard with the upcoming hosting of the Olympics.
Seoul is the least returned to place for tourism in the world (last time I checked), and it's because people don't actually feel like they travelled anywhere. It's Starbucks in a concrete jungle.
Seoul is not Korea, imo.