Why Modern Korean Society Shapes with Discrimination, Abuse, and Misogyny
Discrimination, abuse, and misogyny have been prevalent in modern Korean society, leading some to question whether K-Pop and similar entertainment forms are trap doors disguising the societal issues.
Belief in Reflective Reality?
Why do many people still believe that the world portrayed in K-Pop reflects the true realities of Korean society? Is this naive belief a testament to the power of K-Pop as a tool of propaganda? Or is it a mixture of both, with deep-rooted societal issues and global trends exacerbating the problem?
Misogyny: An Ever-Present Shadow
Misogyny is not unique to Korea; it permeates societies worldwide to different extents. While men generally enjoy a societal advantage over women, the degree of misogyny varies. In some traditionally matriarchal societies, patriarchal values have taken root over time, indicating that misogyny can afflict all cultures to some degree.
Concentrating on developed countries, Korea does appear to exhibit a higher prevalence of misogyny compared to others. However, it's crucial to note that misogyny in Korea long predates the K-Pop scandals. Society generally and women in particular, have known and fought against misogyny for decades, despite the acknowledgment of its prevalence.
Abuse: A Global Issue Ignited by #MeToo
Abuse, too, is a universal issue, with the #MeToo movement evidence of its pervasiveness. The international nature of the movement implies that no country or industry is exempt from instances of abuse. The K-Pop industry, while certainly not immune, is not a singular cause of abuse, nor a unique case in the realm of global entertainment.
Discrimination: A Pattern of Denial and Unwillingness to Admit Fault
Discrimination is a worldwide phenomenon as well. However, in Korea, even when faced with recent K-Pop scandals, many people still have to recognize the existence of discrimination. While initial anti-discrimination policies were introduced in 2001, more detailed laws like the Anti-Discrimination Against and Remedies for Persons with Disabilities Act and its enforcement decree have since been enacted. Yet, many citizens understand that such policies are more often ignored than implemented effectively.
Why Are Asian Countries Concerned?
The growing concern from Asian countries over the influence of K-Pop and K-drama suggests a deeper understanding of the societal issues these forms of media might be perpetuating. Many feel that K-Pop and K-dramas, while enjoyable, veille over the more insidious issues of misogyny, abuse, and discrimination. If these societies feel that their youth and populations are being misled, it's natural for them to take steps to limit such influence.
The need to acknowledge and address these issues is paramount. Misogyny, abuse, and discrimination aren't confined to Korea; they are global phenomena that require global attention and action. By understanding and addressing these issues, we can work towards a more equitable and just society for all.