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In the wake of Donald Trump's re-election as president, interest in the 4B movement has surged across the United States. Young liberal women on social media are sharing information about this South Korean feminist movement, where straight women choose not to marry, have children, date, or engage with men. These women, outraged by the election results and the Supreme Court appointments seen as a blow to women's rights, are voicing their frustration.
But what exactly is the 4B movement? Click on to learn more.
The name "4B" represents four guiding principles: no dating (Bi-yeonae), no intimate relationships (Bi-seonggyo), no marriage (Bi-gyeolhon), and no childbirth (Bi-chulsan). These tenets form the foundation of the movement.
The 4B movement is a cultural and social initiative that originated in South Korea. It challenges traditional gender norms and societal expectations regarding women's roles in relationships, marriage, and family life.
The movement is deeply rooted in feminist activism. It was born out of growing frustration with systemic sexism and the constraints imposed by South Korea's patriarchal society.
The movement views marriage as a structure that often benefits men while disproportionately burdening women with household labor, caregiving, and other responsibilities.
By promoting the 4B principles, the movement directly challenges traditional expectations that women should marry, have children, and fulfill specific domestic roles.
Participants in the movement opt not to engage in romantic relationships with men, viewing dating as a gateway to societal expectations that restrict women's autonomy.
Global feminist movements like #MeToo have inspired South Korean women to speak out about abuse and inequality, laying the groundwork for more radical movements like 4B.
Gender inequality remains pervasive in South Korea. Issues such as wage gaps, workplace harassment, and revenge porn have created an environment where many women feel safer opting out of relationships.
The high costs of living, housing, and raising children in South Korea have made traditional family structures increasingly unappealing, fueling the 4B movement's growth.
Participants often use their newfound freedom to focus on education, career advancement, hobbies, and personal growth, areas that might otherwise be deprioritized in traditional roles.
Choosing to avoid romantic relationships is seen by many participants as a way to avoid potential risks like emotional manipulation, financial dependence, or domestic violence.
Participants reject the expectation to have children, seeing it as an extension of patriarchal control and a personal choice that should not be imposed on women.
For many women, 4B represents an opportunity to live life on their own terms, free from societal expectations or constraints imposed by traditional gender roles.
The 4B movement fosters a strong sense of community, allowing like-minded women to connect, share experiences, and find solidarity in their choices.
Women in the 4B movement reject the commodification and objectification of their bodies, which they feel is perpetuated by societal expectations around relationships and beauty standards.
While growing, the movement faces significant challenges in gaining widespread acceptance in traditionally conservative societies.
Similar movements are emerging worldwide, such as voluntary childlessness and anti-marriage groups, reflecting shared frustrations with traditional societal structures.
The movement's growth is partly a reaction to high-profile cases of gender violence and harassment, which have left many women wary of engaging in relationships.
The 4B movement intersects with issues like economic justice, workplace rights, and LGBTQ+ advocacy, broadening its appeal and impact.
South Korea's government has expressed concern about declining birth rates, and movements like 4B are often blamed for exacerbating the trend.
By rejecting societal norms, participants of the 4B movement feel empowered to define their own paths and assert control over their lives.
Critics often misunderstand the movement as anti-men or nihilistic, but supporters argue it's primarily about personal freedom and equality.
The movement has faced criticism from traditionalists who view it as a rejection of cultural and family values.
Social media has been a key tool for spreading the 4B movement, allowing women to share resources, connect with others, and amplify their voicees.
Men's rights groups have labeled the 4B movement as divisive and harmful, arguing that it alienates men and contributes to declining birth rates.
The 4B movement is part of a larger wave of feminist activism that's reshaping South Korea's cultural and political landscape.
Supporters believe the 4B movement will have lasting impacts, encouraging future generations to challenge outdated norms and embrace new ways of living.
The 4B movement represents a bold redefinition of women's roles in society, highlighting the power of personal choice and collective resistance against inequality.
Sources: (CNN) (Euronews) (CBS News)
See also: When women were granted the right to vote around the world
The decision to abstain from intimate relationships is tied to a desire for physical and emotional independence, as well as rejecting societal pressures to cater to men’s expectations.
What is the 4B movement, and why are women following it?
Everything you need to know about the South Korean feminist movement
LIFESTYLE Women's rights
In the wake of Donald Trump's re-election as president, interest in the 4B movement has surged across the United States. Young liberal women on social media are sharing information about this South Korean feminist movement, where straight women choose not to marry, have children, date, or engage with men. These women, outraged by the election results and the Supreme Court appointments seen as a blow to women's rights, are voicing their frustration.
But what exactly is the 4B movement? Click on to learn more.