Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/social-change-korea
Introduction
If you’re interested in understanding the complexities of gender dynamics and family structures in contemporary South Korea, the Coursera course titled ‘Gender, Family, and Social Change in Contemporary South Korea’ is a valuable resource. This course offers a profound exploration of the transformation of Korean society from the early 20th century to the present, focusing particularly on how evolving concepts of masculinity and femininity influence and are influenced by social, cultural, and political change.
Course Overview
This course presents a critical examination of gender intersected with political, social, and economic developments in South Korea, starting with the deep-rooted Confucian values. The syllabus covers a range of informative topics, including:
- The Gendering of Modernity and Military Authoritarianism: This module provides a broad overview of Korean history, highlighting significant shifts in social and cultural paradigms that have impacted gender relations.
- The (Un)making of the Modern Family: Here, students will explore how modern Korean families are structured in a gendered manner, including contemporary views on marriage and family.
- Female Beauty / Male Beauty & Body Aesthetics: This section examines the evolving standards of beauty for both genders, addressing phenomena like cosmetic surgery and body image.
- Sexuality in Korea: An important topic that discusses familial relationships, commodified sexuality, and issues faced by sexual minorities in contemporary Korean society.
- Looking Ahead into the Future: This concluding module provides insights into positive changes regarding gender and highlights ongoing issues, especially concerning the feminist movement and the legacy of comfort women.
My Experience
As a current learner in this course, I found the content deeply enriching and thought-provoking. The interdisciplinary approach allows for a more holistic understanding of the societal shifts at play. The lectures are well-structured, combining historical perspectives with contemporary discussions, making it relevant for both new learners and those familiar with Korean culture.
The course also encourages critical thinking about how gender norms affect not just individuals, but societal structures as a whole. Engaging with diverse scholarly materials and case studies made the learning experience dynamic and interactive.
Final Thoughts & Recommendation
Overall, I highly recommend ‘Gender, Family, and Social Change in Contemporary South Korea’ to anyone looking to deepen their understanding of these critical societal issues. Whether you’re a student of sociology, gender studies, or simply interested in Korean culture, this course will undoubtedly enhance your perspective.
Don’t miss out on the chance to explore the intricacies of gender relations in one of the most dynamic societies of our time!
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/social-change-korea