Son Seok-gu's gay chart remark reflects Korea's evolving stance toward LGBTQ+ community
The perception of the LGBTQ+ community is shifting. Stars like Son Seok-gu are expressing pride in the affection they receive from their gay fan bases. Their heartfelt gratitude has impressed many viewers.
Son recently made headlines with his appearance on comedian Shin Dong-yup’s YouTube channel, where he boasted about ranking high on a gay chart, viewing it as a badge of honor and a testament to being in tune with trends.
Son humorously boasted about his popularity in a poll among gay friends, saying, "It's one of my proudest achievements. There's a poll where gay friends vote for their favorite male actors. It's a ranking too precious to miss. Aren't they quick on picking up trends?"
His wit captivated audiences with a humorous take on the tanking, remarking, "If I rise in the gay chart because of [my] body double, it's not my own merit."
Evolving narrative
This trend was further underscored by the candid discussions on the web variety show, "Hong Seok-cheon's Jewelry Box," where Actor Teo Yoo's visit to the show was notable as he praised Hong for his openness about his sexuality, reflecting on how being favored by the gay community often serves as an introduction to wider trends.
Yoo's personal anecdotes about drawing strength from such support during his rookie days highlight the evolving narrative around LGBTQ+ stories in the entertainment industry.
The portrayal of LGBTQ+ stories has been increasingly visible in dramas, movies and especially in genres like BL (Boys' Love), with titles like "Semantic Error" and "To My Star" resonating with audiences. The significance of these works lies in their focus on LGBTQ+ narratives, marking a progressive shift in storytelling.
The comments made by stars on variety shows carry weight, as they are perceived as the genuine views of entertainers rather than those of their scripted characters.
Changing awareness
Pop culture critic Ha Jae-geun attributes the more open, queer-friendly remarks by stars to an increased awareness of their rights among the public. The transformation in attitudes toward LGBTQ+ issues, partly influenced by Westernization, has facilitated a more open discussion, reflecting a significant cultural shift from the past when homosexuality was a taboo topic.
"In the past, homosexuality was taboo in our country, and it couldn't even be mentioned. However, as human rights awareness has grown, the atmosphere has changed. Westernization has also had an impact," Ha said.
The platform of web variety shows like Shin Dong-yup's YouTube channel has also contributed to a freer exploration of sensitive issues, offering a space where candid discussions about sexuality can take place beyond the more conservative boundaries of traditional broadcasting.
The international backgrounds of Son Seok-gu and Teo Yoo, who have lived and studied abroad, suggest their global perspectives may influence their open-mindedness and acceptance. As the presence of stars with international experiences grows, it's expected that queer-friendly expressions will continue to be heard in the entertainment industry.
While society still has a long way to go toward full acceptance and respect for all, the honest contributions of celebrities are currently providing support and inspiration to many in the LGBTQ+ community.
source: The Korea Times
Son recently made headlines with his appearance on comedian Shin Dong-yup’s YouTube channel, where he boasted about ranking high on a gay chart, viewing it as a badge of honor and a testament to being in tune with trends.
Son humorously boasted about his popularity in a poll among gay friends, saying, "It's one of my proudest achievements. There's a poll where gay friends vote for their favorite male actors. It's a ranking too precious to miss. Aren't they quick on picking up trends?"
His wit captivated audiences with a humorous take on the tanking, remarking, "If I rise in the gay chart because of [my] body double, it's not my own merit."
Evolving narrative
This trend was further underscored by the candid discussions on the web variety show, "Hong Seok-cheon's Jewelry Box," where Actor Teo Yoo's visit to the show was notable as he praised Hong for his openness about his sexuality, reflecting on how being favored by the gay community often serves as an introduction to wider trends.
Yoo's personal anecdotes about drawing strength from such support during his rookie days highlight the evolving narrative around LGBTQ+ stories in the entertainment industry.
The portrayal of LGBTQ+ stories has been increasingly visible in dramas, movies and especially in genres like BL (Boys' Love), with titles like "Semantic Error" and "To My Star" resonating with audiences. The significance of these works lies in their focus on LGBTQ+ narratives, marking a progressive shift in storytelling.
The comments made by stars on variety shows carry weight, as they are perceived as the genuine views of entertainers rather than those of their scripted characters.
Changing awareness
Pop culture critic Ha Jae-geun attributes the more open, queer-friendly remarks by stars to an increased awareness of their rights among the public. The transformation in attitudes toward LGBTQ+ issues, partly influenced by Westernization, has facilitated a more open discussion, reflecting a significant cultural shift from the past when homosexuality was a taboo topic.
"In the past, homosexuality was taboo in our country, and it couldn't even be mentioned. However, as human rights awareness has grown, the atmosphere has changed. Westernization has also had an impact," Ha said.
The platform of web variety shows like Shin Dong-yup's YouTube channel has also contributed to a freer exploration of sensitive issues, offering a space where candid discussions about sexuality can take place beyond the more conservative boundaries of traditional broadcasting.
The international backgrounds of Son Seok-gu and Teo Yoo, who have lived and studied abroad, suggest their global perspectives may influence their open-mindedness and acceptance. As the presence of stars with international experiences grows, it's expected that queer-friendly expressions will continue to be heard in the entertainment industry.
While society still has a long way to go toward full acceptance and respect for all, the honest contributions of celebrities are currently providing support and inspiration to many in the LGBTQ+ community.
source: The Korea Times