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Why is feminism taboo in South Korea?

And how is it linked to TikTok’s 4B movement?

Being a feminist in South Korea is often associated with being a man-hater. And people who are thought to look like feminists - by for example having short hair or not wearing makeup - can be ridiculed, or even attacked.

Rachel Lee, a journalist based in Seoul, explains why anti-feminist sentiment is growing among young men, how this plays out online, and what the government is doing to protect women. Investigative journalist Chloe Hadjimatheou talks us through the Burning Sun scandal - which saw some K-pop stars imprisoned for crimes against women.

And we unpack the 4B movement, which is currently doing the rounds on TikTok.

Note: This episode mentions sexual abuse.

Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
WhatsApp: +44 0330 12 33 22 6
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
Presenter: Hannah Gelbart
Producers: Mora Morrison and Kevyah Cardoso
Editor: Emily Horler

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13 minutes

Last on

Wed 12 Jun 2024 02:50GMT

Broadcasts

  • Tue 11 Jun 2024 17:50GMT
  • Wed 12 Jun 2024 02:50GMT

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