A report shows that only 27% of sources quoted in major South Korean newspapers and broadcasts are women, highlighting a need for more intentional efforts to include female voices in media.
A recent study conducted by the Korean Media Workers' Union has revealed that only 27.2% of the quoted sources in major South Korean newspapers and broadcasts are women. This research, which was released ahead of International Women's Day, analyzed 520 articles from 18 media outlets, including prominent newspapers like Hankyoreh and broadcasters such as KBS and MBC. The report indicates a significant gender imbalance in media representation, with calls for the industry to make conscious efforts to better include women's voices in reporting.
Professor Kim Soo-ah, from Seoul National University, who conducted the study, emphasized that the inclusion of female sources is crucial for ensuring diverse perspectives in the media. Despite the analysis covering gender reporting issues related to sports and gender-based violence, the overall representation of women remains alarmingly low. Kim suggests that unless there is a deliberate effort to recognize and include female sources, the trend of predominantly featuring male voices will continue in South Korean media.
Additionally, the researchers pointed out potential challenges for future reporting, particularly regarding the coverage of women in sports during the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics. They noted that existing trends show an overemphasis on traditional gender roles, such as family portrayals and maternal aspects, while also focusing excessively on women's appearances. With increasing discussions about gender diversity and issues related to transgender athletes, the report underscores a pressing need for media outlets to adjust their practices to enhance inclusivity in their coverage.
