Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/social-change-korea
In recent years, South Korea has emerged as a focal point for discussions surrounding gender, family dynamics, and social change. The Coursera course titled ‘Gender, Family, and Social Change in Contemporary South Korea’ offers an insightful exploration of these themes, tracing the evolution of gender roles and family structures from the late 19th century to the present day.
The course is structured into five comprehensive modules, each delving into different aspects of gender and societal transformation.
1. **The Gendering of Modernity and Military Authoritarianism**: This module provides a broad overview of Korean history, starting from the Joseon period. It critically examines how Confucianism has shaped gender relations and the impact of military authoritarianism on societal norms.
2. **The (Un)making of the Modern Family**: Here, students will explore the gendered division of roles within modern Korean families. The module discusses contemporary perceptions of marriage and family, highlighting the shifts that have occurred over time.
3. **Female Beauty / Male Beauty & Body Aesthetics**: This fascinating module investigates the evolving standards of beauty in Korea, addressing topics such as cosmetic surgery and body aesthetics. It provides a nuanced understanding of how societal expectations around beauty have changed for both genders.
4. **Sexuality in Korea**: This module tackles the complex issues surrounding sexuality in contemporary Korea, including the interplay between family and sexuality, commodified sexuality, and the challenges faced by sexual minorities.
5. **Looking Ahead into the Future…**: The final module offers a forward-looking perspective on gender issues in Korea, discussing positive changes and the ongoing feminist movements, including the historical context of comfort women.
Overall, this course is a must-take for anyone interested in gender studies, sociology, or Korean culture. It provides a rich, interdisciplinary approach that encourages critical thinking and fosters a deeper understanding of the intricate relationship between gender and societal change. The course is well-structured, engaging, and offers a wealth of resources for further exploration.
I highly recommend this course to students, educators, and anyone interested in the evolving landscape of gender and family in South Korea. It not only enhances knowledge but also encourages meaningful discussions about the future of gender relations in a rapidly changing society.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/social-change-korea