Lookism in South Korea: the Rising Critique and the Case of 200 Pounds of Beauty

Lookism has started to become manifested throughout the South Korean society which has led to the obsession of Koreans with the achievement of beauty, even to such extremes that cosmetic surgery is no longer a taboo and often even promoted to the people. Especially in the music industry the pressures to have to fit the Korean ideal beauty standard is extremely high. Korean idols are expected to have attractive appearances, as they are not only seen as role models for their fans; it will increase the success they will have in their musical career and will thus lead to a more promising future. Despite many people believing that this beauty obsession is just part of Korean culture, the critiques against the idea of lookism are rising. With comedy film being a means through which social and cultural critiques are often expressed, this thesis aims to analyze lookism in the context of South Korea and its music industry by arguing how the Korean film comedy 200 Pounds of Beauty uses its...Show moreLookism has started to become manifested throughout the South Korean society which has led to the obsession of Koreans with the achievement of beauty, even to such extremes that cosmetic surgery is no longer a taboo and often even promoted to the people. Especially in the music industry the pressures to have to fit the Korean ideal beauty standard is extremely high. Korean idols are expected to have attractive appearances, as they are not only seen as role models for their fans; it will increase the success they will have in their musical career and will thus lead to a more promising future. Despite many people believing that this beauty obsession is just part of Korean culture, the critiques against the idea of lookism are rising. With comedy film being a means through which social and cultural critiques are often expressed, this thesis aims to analyze lookism in the context of South Korea and its music industry by arguing how the Korean film comedy 200 Pounds of Beauty uses its comedy genre to criticize lookism in South Korea.Show less

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Lookism in South Korea: the Rising Critique and the Case of 200 Pounds of Beauty