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Hyun Mee Kim
and
Yoo Theodore Jun
This course examines the transformation of Korean society beginning around the turn of the 20th century to contemporary times. In particular, it explores how shifting categories of masculinity, and by contrast, femininity have impacted upon, and in turn been influenced by social, cultural, and political change. Using multiple disciplinary lenses, we will critically examine how gender intersects with political, social, and economic developments starting with the Confucianization of Korean society during the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910) up to the contemporary moment of globalization and neoliberal reform. The class will draw on a variety of topics such as traditional views of women, religion, race, class, education, patriarchy, sexuality, imperialism, modernity, war, globalization, the diaspora, among others. Special attention will be placed on the historical, transnational and transdisciplinary connections.
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What's inside
Syllabus
The Gendering of Modernity and Military Authoritarianism
Broad overview of Korean history and literature beginning in the Joseon period with a particular focus on a series of social and cultural transformations that would have profound impact on the gender relations starting with Confucianism.
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Syllabus
The Gendering of Modernity and Military Authoritarianism
Broad overview of Korean history and literature beginning in the Joseon period with a particular focus on a series of social and cultural transformations that would have profound impact on the gender relations starting with Confucianism.
Read more
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Provides a detailed overview of Korean history, including literary history, beginning in the Joseon period
Provides a strategic division of roles in making modern Korean families and the contemporary changes to the perception of marriage and family in Korea
Examines female and male beauty standards and aesthetics and how they have changed over the past two centuries, including topics ranging from body lines to male circumcision
Discusses the issues of sexualities in contemporary Korea, including family and sexuality, commodified sexuality, and the issues of sexual minorities
Provides an overview of current positive changes in Korea related to gender and contemporary issues of the feminist movement and comfort women
Taught by Hyun Mee Kim and Yoo Theodore Jun, who are recognized for their work in this field
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Reviews summary
In-depth look at gender and change in korea
According to learners, this course offers a fascinating and comprehensive exploration of gender, family, and social change in contemporary South Korea. Many found the topics covered deeply insightful and appreciated the multidisciplinary approach, blending history, sociology, and cultural studies. Students frequently highlight the expertise and passion of the instructor as a major strength. However, a recurring theme is the significant workload, particularly the volume of readings, which some found challenging but others saw as necessary for depth. Some also noted that while the lectures are informative, they can be dense at times, requiring careful attention. Overall, it is seen as a highly valuable course for those with a strong interest in the subject, although prospective students should be prepared for a substantial academic commitment.
Highly rewarding if you are interested in the subject.
"If you have a genuine interest in South Korean society or gender studies, you will find this course incredibly rewarding."
"Definitely worth taking if this specific topic is your passion."
"Perfect for anyone looking for a deep dive into this area."
"This course exceeded my expectations for learning about this niche but important subject."
Instructor demonstrates deep knowledge and passion.
"The professor's expertise on the subject matter is truly impressive and makes the lectures engaging."
"You can tell the instructor is passionate about the topics, which really enhances the learning experience."
"I appreciated the instructor's nuanced perspectives and historical context provided."
"The lectures were clear and well-delivered, thanks to the professor's command of the material."
Course covers deeply interesting and insightful topics.
"The topics covered were absolutely fascinating, offering deep insights into Korean society..."
"...found the content on gender and family dynamics in South Korea incredibly thought-provoking."
"The exploration of beauty standards and sexuality was a unique and highlight for me."
"This course provided a comprehensive and eye-opening look at social change through a gender lens."
Lectures are detailed but can be challenging to follow.
"The lectures are packed with information, which is great, but sometimes hard to absorb all at once."
"...while informative, the lectures could occasionally feel a bit dense."
"I sometimes had to rewatch lectures to fully grasp the complex concepts discussed."
"Requires focus, as the lectures move through complex ideas quite quickly."
Course involves substantial reading and assignments.
"Be prepared for a heavy reading load; it's definitely not a light course."
"The amount of material to cover each week felt overwhelming at times..."
"While the readings are good, there are a lot of them..."
"This course requires a significant time commitment, more than I expected."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Gender, Family, and Social Change in Contemporary South Korea with these
activities:
Review Confucianism
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Readily engage with the content on Korean society's transformation and Confucianism's impact by reviewing key principles and beliefs of Confucianism.
Browse courses on
Confucianism
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-
Read a summary of Confucianism
-
Read a book or article about Confucianism's influence on Korean society
-
Watch a documentary on Confucianism
Show all one activities
Review Confucianism
Show steps
Readily engage with the content on Korean society's transformation and Confucianism's impact by reviewing key principles and beliefs of Confucianism.
Browse courses on
Confucianism
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read a summary of Confucianism
- Read a book or article about Confucianism's influence on Korean society
- Watch a documentary on Confucianism
Show all one activities
Career center
Learners who complete Gender, Family, and Social Change in Contemporary South Korea will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Sociologist
Sociologist
Sociologists study the relationships between individuals and society, including family structures, gender roles, and cultural norms. This course provides a deep understanding of these topics within the context of contemporary South Korea, which can be invaluable for Sociologists working in this region or specializing in gender and family studies.
Gender Studies Professor
Gender Studies Professor
Gender Studies Professors teach and research gender roles, relations, and identities, as well as how they intersect with other forms of social division. This course provides a comprehensive overview of gender studies in the context of South Korea, which can be highly valuable for both teaching and research in this field.
Social Worker
Social Worker
Social Workers help people navigate challenges related to family, relationships, and social well-being. This course provides a valuable understanding of the social and cultural factors that influence family and gender dynamics in South Korea, which can be essential for Social Workers working with Korean communities or families.
Policy Analyst
Policy Analyst
Policy Analysts research and analyze social issues and develop policy recommendations. This course provides insights into the gendered dimensions of social change in South Korea, which can be crucial for Policy Analysts working on gender equality, family policy, or related areas.
Historian
Historian
Historians research and interpret the past, including the evolution of social and cultural norms. This course offers a comprehensive overview of the history of gender, family, and social change in South Korea, which can be highly valuable for Historians specializing in Korean history or gender studies.
Journalist
Journalist
Journalists report on current events and social issues, often specializing in particular fields. This course provides a deep understanding of gender and family dynamics in contemporary South Korea, which can be essential for Journalists covering these topics or working in the region.
Nonprofit Program Manager
Nonprofit Program Manager
Nonprofit Program Managers oversee the implementation of social programs, often focused on specific issues or populations. This course provides valuable insights into the gendered dimensions of social change in South Korea, which can be crucial for Program Managers working on gender equality, family support, or related areas.
Museum curator
Museum curator
Museum Curators research, preserve, and interpret cultural artifacts and collections. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the history of gender and family in South Korea, which can be highly valuable for Curators specializing in Korean art, history, or culture.
Teacher
Teacher
Teachers educate students in various subjects, including social studies and history. This course provides valuable insights into the history of gender and family in South Korea, which can be integrated into teaching about Korean culture, history, or social issues.
Anthropologist
Anthropologist
Anthropologists study human societies and cultures, including family structures and gender roles. This course provides a deep understanding of these topics within the context of contemporary South Korea, which can be invaluable for Anthropologists working in this region or specializing in gender and family studies.
Lawyer
Lawyer
Lawyers advise and represent clients on legal matters, often specializing in particular areas of law. This course may be useful for Lawyers working on family law, gender discrimination cases, or related areas, as it provides insights into the legal and social context of gender and family in South Korea.
Economist
Economist
Economists study the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services. This course may be useful for Economists researching gender-related economic issues, such as the gender wage gap or the economic impact of family policies.
Political Scientist
Political Scientist
Political Scientists study political systems and processes, including the role of gender in politics. This course may be useful for Political Scientists researching gender and politics in South Korea or comparative politics on gender issues.
Psychologist
Psychologist
Psychologists study the mind and behavior, including the psychological aspects of gender and family dynamics. This course may be useful for Psychologists specializing in gender studies, family therapy, or related areas.
Business Analyst
Business Analyst
Business Analysts help businesses improve their performance by analyzing data and identifying areas for improvement. This course may be useful for Business Analysts working on projects related to gender diversity, employee engagement, or customer segmentation in South Korea.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/kztlr0/gender
Reading list
We've selected 11 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Gender, Family, and Social Change in Contemporary South Korea.
A grounded and comprehensive survey of Korean gender history, this in-depth book explores how gender influenced and was influenced by contemporary Korean society.
Save
A groundbreaking and powerful book, this book provides a comprehensive account of the Japanese military's use of comfort women during World War II.
Investigates the cultural significance of beauty in South Korea and how it shapes gender roles and social norms.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the history of women in Korea, from the pre-modern era to the present day.
Examines the global popularity of South Korean pop culture and its impact on Korean identity and gender roles.
Provides a comprehensive overview of Korean history from the late 19th century to the present day, providing context for the course's exploration of gender and family change.
Save
Provides insights into Korean culture and society, including gender roles and family dynamics.
Save
Provides a detailed overview of South Korea's history, politics, economy, and culture.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the history of gender relations in Korea from the pre-modern period to the present day.
Save
Explores the phenomenon of the Korean Wave and its impact on global culture.
Save
A collection of essays that explores the changing nature of sex, love, and feminism in South Korea.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/kztlr0/gender
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Rating
4.8
Effort
Approx. 16 hours
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
Yonsei University
Instructors
Hyun Mee Kim
Yoo Theodore Jun
Language
English
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