Won So
Research lead covering South Korea
LGBTQ+ in South Korea - statistics and facts
South Korea's journey towards LGBTQ+ acceptance has been marked by both progress and challenges. While traditional Confucian values have historically influenced conservative views on sexuality and gender, modern South Korea has witnessed increasing visibility and advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights, particularly among younger generations.
Another survey found that around three percent of South Korean people identified as bisexual. One percent of respondents identified as homosexual, gay, or lesbian. While more and more people appear ready to accept LGBTQ+ people in society, figures have suggested that acceptance is generally higher among women, young people, those with no religious affiliation, and those with progressive political ideologies.
However, social attitudes towards the LGBTQ+ community have become more positive. According to a survey, more than half of respondents were optimistic about how South Korean society is changing when it comes to LGBTQ+ people. Also, younger generations have increasingly supported the LGBTQ+ community, leading to greater visibility and importance. Although significant legal and cultural barriers remain, the ongoing balance between tradition and modernity continues to shape South Korea’s approach to LGBTQ+.
Conservatism in Korean society
South Korea’s conservative Confucian values have significantly shaped social norms, strongly emphasizing traditional gender roles and modesty. In this society, talking about sexual orientation with family and friends can be a big challenge. According to a survey, only around three out of 10 people said they would support a family member or partner if they came out.Another survey found that around three percent of South Korean people identified as bisexual. One percent of respondents identified as homosexual, gay, or lesbian. While more and more people appear ready to accept LGBTQ+ people in society, figures have suggested that acceptance is generally higher among women, young people, those with no religious affiliation, and those with progressive political ideologies.
More presence in media and increasing interest
There has also been a noticeable increase in the visibility of LGBTQ+ individuals in Korean media. LGBTQ+ characters are beginning to appear in popular dramas, films, and variety shows, contributing to a broader societal conversation about sexual diversity. Celebrities like Hong Seok-Cheon, one of the first openly gay public figures in Korea, have played a crucial role in bringing LGBTQ+ issues to the front. Annual events like the Seoul Queer Culture Festival have grown in attendance and visibility, showcasing the increasing support for the LGBTQ+ community.Legal status and outlook
Despite thise growing visibility and support, South Korea lacks comprehensive anti-discrimination laws protecting the LGBTQ+ community. Although support for legalizing same-sex marriage is increasing, legal recognition of same-sex relationships and marriages is still lacking. The military, which has a mandatory service requirement for men, has also been a challenging environment for LGBTQ+.However, social attitudes towards the LGBTQ+ community have become more positive. According to a survey, more than half of respondents were optimistic about how South Korean society is changing when it comes to LGBTQ+ people. Also, younger generations have increasingly supported the LGBTQ+ community, leading to greater visibility and importance. Although significant legal and cultural barriers remain, the ongoing balance between tradition and modernity continues to shape South Korea’s approach to LGBTQ+.
