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In class today we talked about LGBT representation in Korea. Thread of my thoughts based on an article we read:
In Kang Ohreum’s article “LGBT: We Are Living Here Now: Sexual Minorities and Space in Contemporary South Korea,” the author notes a concept called the “politics of recognition,” wherein certain sexual minority identities are mediatized in certain ways in order 2 create specific-
“tolerated” identities that are then isolated in private spaces. An example of this she gives “sophisticated gays” who have “distinctive tastes” and are “represented as creators of new products.” I wonder if Hong Seokcheon’s character in Itaewon Class falls into this category?
As his character in that show is represented as a trendy, stylish bar/restaurant owner (perhaps not far off from his actual identity in the public domain).
Since Hong Seokcheon is a recognizable openly gay Korean celebrity, I wonder if his identity as a celebrity/person became associated with a certain stereotype of homosexuality in Korea, and led to the inclusion of his character in the show (essentially playing himself).
