Building Solidarity Between Feminists for Comprehensive Anti-Discrimination Legislation in South Korea


Milan Kang, York University

In August 2021, an interview with renowned feminist and philosopher Judith Butler in Kyunghyang Shinmun, a major Seoul newspaper, sparked a significant controversy in South Korea. This event underscored the deep societal divides over LGBTQ+ rights and gender equality, and the Justice Ministrys reaction to Butlers critique of domestic partnership legislation brought the intense political and societal struggle for gender and sexual rights into sharp focus. This controversy provides a relevant context for this studys exploration of these dynamics within South Korea. This research aims to explore the intricate dynamics among diverse feminist factions in South Korea, focusing on their collective efforts toward advocating for anti- discrimination legislation. This study seeks to uncover factors hindering legislative progress and aims to assist future activists in policy-making and discourse coordination. This paper’s ultimate goal is facilitating solidarity among feminist groups, contributing to the successful enactment of comprehensive anti-discrimination laws. The paper examines contemporary feminist movements, including the "Escape the Corset" and "4B movements," which challenge patriarchal norms and societal expectations. Additionally, the rise of Trans-Exclusionary Radical Feminism (TERF) in Korea highlights the urgent need for inclusive feminist solidarity. Theoretical insights from Judith Butler, Chandra Talpade Mohanty, and Korean feminist scholars such as Hee-Jeong Son, Hyeon-Young Kwon Kim, and Hee-Jin Jeong, inform the analysis of gender, sexuality, and sexual orientation discourse since 2007, particularly post--#---MeToo movement. These insights offer a critical lens for understanding the fluid gender politics in South Korea. Historically, the feminist movement in South Korea has been shaped by significant events and social changes. The abolition of the Hoju system (Hojuje) in 2008, a family registry system rooted in Confucian patriarchal norms, marked a pivotal victory against gender inequality. The rise of womens studies education, led by institutions like Ewha Womans University in the 1970s and the subsequent proliferation of gender and womens studies across major universities, played a crucial role in the academic and social recognition of feminist discourse. Throughout the late 20th and early 21st centuries, milestones such as the Korean Womens Congress, the disabled womens movement, and the Queer Culture Festival signified the growing scope and intersectionality of feminist activism in South Korea. Despite these advancements, challenges persisted, particularly in integrating the concerns of marginalized groups within the broader feminist agenda. By interweaving diverse theoretical frameworks and historical insights, this paper aims to uncover strategies for fostering cooperation among feminist groups. This integrated approach is vital for understanding the complexities within the feminist movement and achieving objectives such as comprehensive anti-discrimination legislation. The study highlights the critical role of cooperation and inclusivity in advancing the feminist agenda in South Korea. In conclusion, this research underscores the necessity of intersectionality within advocacy efforts among mainstream feminists, younger feminists, and queer feminist groups. Reflecting on historical movements, from the June Democracy Movement to the post-# #MeToo era, is crucial in forging a united and strategic approach toward equality. These diverse feminist groups must offer clear policy recommendations and engage in continuous dialogue and joint activism to address a spectrum of identities and experiences. Further empirical research is recommended to evaluate these strategies impact and efficacy, ensuring adaptability and refinement. Situating South Koreas struggle within a global context highlights the universal nature of these challenges and the potential for international solidarity in dismantling femicide and homo/transphobia.

This paper will be presented at the following session: