Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/social-change-korea
South Korea’s rapid ascent from a post-war nation to a global cultural powerhouse is a fascinating narrative. But beneath the K-pop beats and technological marvels lies a complex story of social transformation, particularly concerning gender roles, family structures, and societal expectations. The Coursera course, ‘Gender, Family, and Social Change in Contemporary South Korea,’ offers a deep dive into this evolution, providing a comprehensive and insightful look at how these dynamics have shaped modern Korea.
This course masterfully navigates the intricate web of social, cultural, and political shifts that have redefined Korean society from the turn of the 20th century to the present day. It doesn’t shy away from the foundational influences, beginning with the Confucianization of Korean society and tracing how these deeply ingrained traditions have been challenged and reshaped. The syllabus is thoughtfully structured, allowing learners to follow a clear progression of understanding.
We begin with ‘The Gendering of Modernity and Military Authoritarianism,’ which sets the historical stage, exploring how societal structures and political regimes impacted gender relations. This is followed by ‘The (Un)making of the Modern Family,’ a crucial section that dissects the evolving perceptions of marriage and family, highlighting the strategic gendered divisions of roles that defined modern Korean families and the contemporary shifts occurring.
The course then delves into the fascinating and often surprising realm of ‘Female Beauty / Male Beauty & Body Aesthetics.’ Examining everything from the booming cosmetic surgery industry to discussions on male body image, this module critically analyzes how beauty standards for both genders have transformed over the past two centuries. Following this, ‘Sexuality in Korea’ tackles a sensitive yet vital topic, exploring the complex relationship between family, sexuality, commodified sexual practices, and the pressing issues faced by sexual minorities.
Finally, ‘Looking Ahead into the Future…’ provides a forward-looking perspective, summarizing positive changes in gender equality and discussing critical ongoing issues such as the contemporary feminist movement and the historical trauma of comfort women. This concluding section leaves the learner with a nuanced understanding of the challenges and progress that lie ahead.
Overall, ‘Gender, Family, and Social Change in Contemporary South Korea’ is an exceptionally well-curated course. It utilizes multiple disciplinary lenses to offer a rich and critical examination of how gender intersects with political, social, and economic developments. The instructors present complex ideas in an accessible manner, making it an ideal choice for anyone interested in Korean studies, sociology, gender studies, or simply understanding the forces that shape contemporary societies. I highly recommend this course for its depth, clarity, and relevance.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/social-change-korea