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The article explores the surge in interest among US women for the 4B movement, a South Korean feminist movement where straight women refuse to engage in traditional relationships with men, including marriage, childbirth, dating, and sex. The movement's resurgence in the US stems from the recent presidential election, with many women feeling disillusioned and enraged by the political climate, particularly the overturning of Roe v. Wade. This disillusionment has led some women to seek alternative solutions, finding resonance in the 4B movement's call for rejecting traditional gender roles and expectations.
The 4B movement originated in South Korea around 2015-2016, emerging as a response to the stark gender inequality prevalent in the country. The movement's origins can be traced back to a horrific incident where a woman was brutally killed, with the perpetrator claiming he acted due to feeling ignored by women. This incident sparked a national reckoning regarding how women are treated in South Korea, leading to discussions surrounding femicide, revenge porn, and digital sex crimes. The movement's core principle lies in refusing to participate in a system that perpetuates such inequality and violence.
While the 4B movement has diminished and splintered in South Korea over the years, its presence in the US reflects a growing awareness of gender inequality and the need for women to take control of their lives. The article highlights the diverse reactions to the movement, with some women vowing to join, others exploring alternative forms of protest, and still others expressing reservations about its effectiveness. Despite the movement's potential limitations, its emergence highlights the ongoing struggle for gender equality and the search for solutions that empower women in the face of systemic oppression.
Source: 4B movement surges in interest among US women after Trump election win