Equalism Among Young South Korean Men: A Localised Form of Antifeminism

Young men and women in South Korea have increasingly divergent views on gender equality, with more young men openly expressing antifeminist sentiments. This study examines the prevalence of antifeminism among young Korean men by analysing their perceptions of feminism and the underlying reasons contributing to their antifeminist attitudes. Based on interviews with 23 Korean men in their 20s, we find that while these men acknowledge gender inequality in Korea, they reject Korean feminism and instead advocate for an alternative ideology called equalism. Distinct from, yet overlapping with, modern sexism, we argue that their stance of equalism is grounded in four interrelated beliefs: 1) acknowledgement of gender inequality and nominal support for gender equality as an ideal, 2) support for gender equality, only insofar as it does not challenge existing male privilege, 3) belief in fairness and meritocracy as the primary pathways to gender equality, while overlooking structural causes of inequality, and 4) critique of perceived extreme feminist methods and endorsement of a more moderate, merit-based approach reflected in equalist discourse. Through this research, we contribute to the literature on antifeminism, misogyny, and modern sexism by offering a nuanced understanding of its local manifestation in South Korea.