#MeToo Movement reaches South Korea
Home › Forums › Summer Institutes › Gender And Generation In East Asia, Summer 2019 › Session 4 - August 6, Jennifer Jung-Kim, UCLA › #MeToo Movement reaches South Korea
The article speaks to the effects of the #metoo movement in South Korea and its origins from incidents which occurred in South Korean schools. It's a testament to the power of social media and its global attributes. Prior to the movement, students had complained about a specific teacher at a school for 6+ years without any action from the school board. Recently, a man in a high-power position was sentenced to 3 1/2 years for sexual harrassment, signaling the winds are, indeed, changing in the severity of such cases. Although many of the women have been targeted by those engaging in bullying tactics, it's remarkable the steadfast resolve the women have collectively shown. Having said this, when a movement gains in such popularity and strength, it is important to always retain a sense of context and perspective as every incident/case is specific and must stand on its own merits. If not, many social movements can potentially become mob-like in nature, resulting in unfounded disingenous bandwagon jumpers looking to make a name for themselves at the expense of actual victims whose voice should not be tainted by charlatans and/or posers. A movement cannot simple be a means to an end. Its legitimacy is founded upon the ability of its founders and/or advocates to retain objectivity despite the need and importance of securing their message, protest or cause.


