Overcoming Sexual Discrimination in Society

In Korea the movement for gender equality is strong. Articles in both Catholic papers report on a debate that was recently held on the theme:  "Me Too movement, changes, solidarity and listening to the response of society." In attendance was the Catholic Social Welfare Association and the Women's Welfare Council.
 
The 'Me Too' movement in Korea can be regarded as a revolution. In Korean society, the "gender power structure" is deeply rooted, and the movement is an attempt to change its structure—a new Feminism for Social Reform.

One participant said the movement was one of the oldest and strongest movements trying to overcome the system of gender power. It is one of the most important revolutions in Korean history. Men are the universal being and women are supporters. This is the reason for sexual violence and some of the vocabulary used in society.
 
The vigor of the candlelight procession achieved democratization and the 'Me Too' movement will lead the democratization of everyday life said another participant. We see how the violence against women appears by the many cases that have come to the attention of society. Participants at the debate ultimately said that more effort is needed to make changes in the structure of gender power. 
 
The number of accusations against sexual violence has increased, said another, but the victim often continues to be victimized. In the process of investigating sexual assault cases, the perpetrator's words have more weight than the victim's and the victim is seen from the perpetrator's point of view.  

Above all, participants pointed out the need for individual reflection and solidarity. It is necessary to examine the way we think, and change when we judge that we are in the wrong. Considering the limitations of the representative system and bureaucracy, it is important to actively monitor and reflect on what is going on in society.
 
There is no male welfare council, said the chairman of a Catholic Social Welfare Association. The reason why we have a women's welfare council is that of the alienations and damage suffered by women. Society needs to support and care for women. We are responsible for correcting and improving the areas of discrimination and exclusion.
 
Recently a highly respected politician was acquitted of sexual abuse of a fellow worker considering it consensual sex and not rape. The victim did not show victim-like behavior since she did not quit her job was the understanding of the court. Another women, who may have started the 'Me Too' movement in Korea, has paid highly for her accusations of sexual abuse and is on sick leave and does not expect to return to her job.
 
Many will continue to say Korea has a long history of blaming and silencing the victims of sex abuse instead of the perpetrators and the 'Me To' movement wants to see the end of this but it is not an easy road in a patriarchal society.