AP/KOR 4200 3.00

Gender, Sexuality and Culture in Korea

This course examines how social, political and cultural changes intersect with gender and sexuality in contemporary Korean society. It explores modern gendered identity among practices of sexuality, marriage, family, parenthood, labour, consumption, media, and movement. Over the last five decades, Korea has undergone a rapid societal and cultural change. The course investigates the impact of such development on the life of men and women in Korea, as well as on the formation of femininity and masculinity in various sectors. In addition, discourses and representations of gendered body images and cultural practices will be used to understand important structures of power that have dominated South Korea, such as capitalism, militarism, imperialism, urbanization, sexism, and patriarchy. Through readings, lectures, in-class discussions, and class with guest speakers, the course provides an opportunity to explore differences in the articulation of gender between Korea and Canada. In addition, students will form insights into the situation of women and/or marginalized population in contemporary Korea, extending it to understanding the dynamics of gender in the contemporary world.