South Korea's Gen Z: A Nation Divided by Gender and Politics

South Korea's Gen Z Gender Divide: Young Men Shift Right, Women Lean Left In South Korea, a notable political trend is emerging: a widening gap between the voting preferences of young men and women. Recent elections show a significant shift towards right-wing parties among young male voters, while their female counterparts are increasingly supporting left-leaning candidates. This contrasts with previous voting patterns where both genders largely favored progressive parties. Political economist Soohyun Lee, from King's College London, offers insight into this phenomenon. Lee suggests that economic factors, such as intense competition in the job market and soaring property prices, are key drivers. "Young men feel squeezed," Lee explains, "and many blame feminism, believing young women are preferred for jobs." This frustration, she argues, is fueling a shift towards right-wing ideologies. The video also features interviews with young South Koreans, illustrating the emotional intensity of this political divide. One young man interviewed expressed his anger and frustration with the current economic climate, highlighting the sense of insecurity felt by many in his generation. This sentiment underscores the complex socio-economic factors at play in shaping the political landscape of South Korea. The implications of this polarization are significant. Pollsters warn that this division could hinder the government's ability to reach consensus on crucial reforms addressing issues such as affordable housing and precarious employment. Addressing these underlying economic concerns will likely be essential to bridging this growing political divide and promoting stability in South Korea.