Civilizatio

Hasan:

Can you briefly introduce yourself as we begin?

Chaeyoon:

Sure. I am Chaeyoon. I am an exchange student currently studying in Hungary. Back in Korea, I study theology and design at Yonsei University.

Bora:

Let’s dive into our discussion. What are some of the biggest challenges Korean women face today?

Chaeyoon:

From my perspective as a university student, opportunities for men and women seem almost equal in my age group. However, challenges appear in the workplace. Many women face difficulties related to job opportunities and balancing work with traditional expectations. When feminism became a topic of discussion in Korea during my teenage years, there was significant resistance. Many people misunderstood feminism as being about hatred toward men. This misconception still persists in some circles. Feminism in Korea isn’t widely accepted or understood, and some view it as a movement that threatens men’s opportunities.

I remember when the #MeToo movement gained attention in Korea. It made me curious about feminism, but it also revealed how misunderstood the concept is. Radical feminism, in particular, became associated with hatred toward men, and many boys in my school viewed feminism negatively without truly understanding it. This misunderstanding has caused problems in creating an open dialogue about gender equality. For many women, job-related discrimination and unequal opportunities remain significant challenges, despite progress in some areas.

Bora:

How would you describe the feminist movement in Korea? Is it organized or more informal?

Chaeyoon:

There isn’t a well-defined or continuous feminist movement in Korea. People occasionally discuss feminism during public events, like university festivals, and some individuals advocate for it openly. However, these efforts don’t form a consistent or large-scale movement. Feminism is more of a scattered discussion rather than an organized movement in Korea.

For example, there’s been an effort by some women to reject traditional beauty standards, such as by not wearing makeup. It’s a small step, but it’s becoming more visible. Feminist conversations also occur more often on social media, but these discussions don’t always lead to formal activism. Feminism in Korea still lacks a strong, unified platform to address larger issues.

Yaren:

Do you think K-pop culture contributes to stereotypes about women, especially in terms of beauty?

Chaeyoon:

Definitely. K-pop idols often serve as models for beauty products and set unrealistic beauty standards. For example, in stores like Olive Young, the models on display are almost always K-pop idols. These idols influence what people perceive as ideal—not just in terms of makeup but also body shape and fashion.

It’s not just about beauty products. People look at idols’ body shapes and try to mimic them. They want to buy the same clothes, use the same products, and achieve the same look. This culture creates immense pressure on young women to conform. K-pop has a huge influence on societal standards in Korea, and while it’s a global success story, it also perpetuates stereotypes that can be harmful.

Yaren:

How does traditional culture in Korea affect perceptions of women’s roles in families and society?

Chaeyoon:

In many Korean families, men are often seen as the central figure. Growing up, I noticed that decisions typically followed my father’s opinions. Of course, this varies between families, but a significant portion still functions this way. Media and societal norms reinforce these roles, though some families are beginning to shift away from this traditional structure.

For example, when I was younger, I didn’t notice it as much. But as I grew up, I started to see how my father’s voice carried more weight in family matters. In some families, mothers take on this role instead, but it’s often seen as unusual or surprising. Korean society still grapples with these traditional roles, though younger generations are starting to question them more openly.

Hasan:

Have you noticed any differences between how women are perceived in Korea versus in Europe?

Chaeyoon:

Yes, there are differences. In Korea, people tend to follow fashion trends more closely, and there’s pressure to look a certain way. In Europe, fashion feels freer, though there are still societal expectations. However, as an Asian woman, I’ve experienced instances of racism in Europe, which sometimes complicates understanding whether reactions are due to my gender or ethnicity. Overall, I feel freer in Korea because I’m more familiar with the cultural expectations there.

For example, in Hungary, I noticed that many women follow a specific fashion trend, like tight clothing and bold makeup styles. This is different from Korea, where trends change frequently, and there’s more emphasis on looking neat and polished. As an Asian in Europe, I’ve felt ignored or excluded in some social situations, which might be a mix of racism and unfamiliarity. In Korea, these issues are less prominent for me, even if other societal pressures exist.

Yaren:

Do you think the education system in Korea places more pressure on young people compared to Europe?

Chaeyoon:

The pressure in Korea’s education system is much higher, especially in high school. Students focus intensely on preparing for one major exam, and there’s little room for open discussion or creative thinking. It’s all about memorization and choosing the right answer.

In universities, the quality of education depends on the institution, but in general, Korea’s system demands more rigor than what I’ve observed in Europe. For example, in Korea, high school students often spend their entire day studying, with classes and private tutoring sessions filling their schedules. The focus is on achieving a high score on the college entrance exam, which determines their future. In Europe, education feels less intense and more flexible, though I’m still learning about how the system works here.

Bora:

Is feminism on the rise in Korea?

Chaeyoon:

It is, but slowly. Feminism needs to be seen as more than just a movement; it should also be an academic field of study and a societal discussion. Unfortunately, discussions often become too defensive or aggressive, which hinders progress.

When I was in high school, discussions about feminism started to increase, but they were often met with hostility. Boys in particular would dismiss feminism as unnecessary or even harmful. This mindset still exists, though younger generations are becoming more open to the conversation. I believe we need to focus on understanding history—both men’s and women’s roles—and finding ways to move forward together. Feminism should aim to create opportunities for everyone, rather than being seen as a zero-sum game.

Bora:

Can you share your thoughts on cyberbullying in Korea? Is it a significant issue?

Chaeyoon:

Yes, cyberbullying is a serious problem, especially among middle and high school students. Schools often try to hide incidents to protect their reputation, which prevents effective action. I was a victim of cyberbullying myself for five years. Overcoming it was not easy, and the lack of proper support systems makes it an ongoing issue in Korea.

In middle school, cyberbullying was especially common. Many schools avoid addressing it because they want to maintain a good image. Victims often suffer in silence because they don’t feel supported. I experienced this firsthand, and even though I eventually moved on, the impact of those experiences stays with you. Cyberbullying is an issue that needs much more attention and action in Korea.

Hasan:

Growing up in Korea, did you feel boys received more privileges or attention compared to girls?

Chaeyoon:

It’s not about privilege. But then, I had experiences where boys tried to do bad things to girls—like teachers and others—and used phrases like, “I love you” or “I like you” as excuses. They think they can act that way. But if girls do the same thing to boys, like a teacher, people would say, “Why do you act like that?” or call them a bitch.

So, in a way, boys have more opportunities to do bad things or to express their feelings in a rude or inappropriate way. Officially, no one says it’s okay, but if a girl says no, people don’t always step in or speak up.

When I was younger, it happened a lot. Someone choked me, someone tried to pinch or hurt me—it really happened a lot.

I think, in Korea, there’s not enough education about sex or relationships. That’s why I think boys don’t know how to form healthy relationships with women in the right way.

There may be no official privilege, but to me, acting like that without consequences feels like a kind of privilege. So maybe it still exists.

Yaren:

How do you feel about the representation of women in Korean media compared to Europe?

Chaeyoon:

Both Korean and European media rely on stereotypes. In Korea, women are often portrayed as either overly pretty or excessively strong to fit a narrative. While there’s been progress, like showing independent women in movies, stereotypes still dominate because they attract audiences.

Even in global media, like Disney movies, the trend is shifting towards independent female characters, but stereotypes still exist. Media tends to stick with what sells, so breaking these stereotypes will take time.

Bora:

Are there organizations in Korea that advocate for women’s rights?

Chaeyoon:

There are some organizations, but they’re not as prominent as in other countries. One example is a group focused on family and women’s issues, but its influence is limited. In fact, there was an attempt by the government to shut down such groups recently, which shows how challenging it is for these organizations to operate.

Last year, there was a debate about removing a government department focused on gender equality. Many women protested, arguing that it was a necessary institution. It’s an example of how progress is often met with resistance in Korea.

Hasan:

Do women in Korea earn less than men for the same work?

Chaeyoon:

It depends on the industry. In fields like marketing or design, the wage gap isn’t as noticeable. However, in other sectors, especially those dominated by men, there’s still a significant difference. I haven’t experienced this personally yet, but the statistics show it’s an issue.

Sky:

How has your experience as a student in Hungary differed from your life in Korea?

Chaeyoon:

Social life here is different. In Korea, I’m in my third year, so the focus is more on academics. In Hungary, I’ve joined first-year classes, where students socialize more. However, I’ve faced some racism from European classmates who seem less interested in interacting with Asians. Academically, I feel Korea’s system is more organized and demanding.

For example, in Korea, students and professors stick to a clear schedule, and classes are well-structured. In Hungary, the organization feels looser, and the academic expectations aren’t as consistent. Socially, I’ve encountered some exclusion, which might stem from cultural differences or racism. It’s been an eye-opening experience.

Bora:

What do you think about the future of feminism in Korea?

Chaeyoon:

For feminism to progress, we need comprehensive sex education and stronger laws against issues like sexual violence and deepfake abuse. These problems are still prevalent in Korea, and education is key to changing perceptions and behaviors. We also need to focus on creating a fair legal system to protect victims and hold offenders accountable.

For example, crimes like revenge pornography and deepfake abuse are serious issues, but the penalties in Korea are often too lenient. Victims are left vulnerable, and offenders can repeat their actions after serving short sentences. Education is essential to teaching people about respect and boundaries, and stronger laws are needed to create a safer environment for everyone.

Hasan:

Do you have anything else you want to talk about?

Chaeyoon:

We also talked about why men in their 30s didn’t show up and why they still try to support the president, even though they know he’s not good. I think that’s the real point. Voting is really important in Korea right now, but the fact that some people still support politicians like him could be a problem.

I don’t know exactly what’s happening, but I feel there’s a difference in how men and women choose politicians. Right now, we’re focused on bigger issues, so we’re not really talking about gender differences. But I think someday it could become an issue.

Right now, we’re preparing to kick him out. But the problem is, he already declared martial law, and many people supported him—especially politicians in his party and a lot of the military.

So, we have to judge everyone who helped him, but it will take time. Another problem is that these people have a lot of power, so it’s hard to hold them accountable.

And it’s not that there’s no one who can judge them—there are some people—but, you know, rich people stay rich, and poor people stay poor. That’s why they might be able to escape judgment.

I think it’ll take time, but I hope they face appropriate judgment.

Hasan:

Thank you for your responses. That’s all for today’s interview.

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