This study critically examines the current state of democracy in higher education in Korea, which is being threatened by neoliberalism, and suggests new tasks to make progress in the democratization of higher education. The prevalence of authoritarian culture in universities makes it difficult to form a democratic structure of reflection and discussion. In addition, the hierarchical system of educational capital derived from neoliberalism has led to exclusion and discrimination in university society. In particular, the employment insecurity system of professors further encourages discrimination among faculty members within the university community. Finally, the competitive financial support system among universities threatens the democratic and autonomous ecosystem of universities by forcing them to obey government policies rather than critique them. Historically, the universities in Korea have been able to expand rapidly, receiving full support from the nation and citizens. During this process, a special position has been guaranteed to the universities. This study argues that the social responsibility of higher education in Korea should be strengthened to advance toward a new democracy. Challenging institutional tasks to be carried out by Korean universities are also suggested.