Beauty Can Mean Handsome in Korea, Here's the Masculinity Culture of K-Pop That Must be Understood

Kapanlagi.com - The culture of K-Pop has become worldwide with many fans in various countries. Not only music and dramas, but there are also many interesting Korean cultures to learn.

You must be familiar with the term 'pretty boy' or flower boy. Idols who are referred to as flower boys always prioritize their appearance. So it's no wonder that in Korea, there are many makeup and skincare products specifically for boys.

However, this culture is certainly very different from the masculinity culture in Western culture. Masculinity, in terms of male behavior and roles in each country, certainly has its own standards. Therefore, you must first understand what masculinity in Korea is like.

1. Started Since the 90s

credit: KBS2TV

According to Koreaboo, both K-Pop idols and drama actors have been playing the role of gentle men since the 1990s. Starting from this era, they have introduced the charm of 'flower boy' to fans.

"I think it's very ideal if Korean men always appear different. If a Korean man looks pretty, it could mean he is handsome," said Joy Kang, CEO of Eunogo, a plastic surgery service based in Singapore.

2. Considered Beauty Standards

credit: Special

Joy Kang added that many people assume that Korean men want to appear more feminine compared to other cultures, but that's not what it means. In Korea, wearing makeup is considered a normal thing for guys. In other words, wearing makeup is like changing hairstyles or clothes.

3. Korean Men Free to Experiment

credit: Vogue

Furthermore, Western culture, which commonly regards something feminine, is accepted by Korean men. This is because Korean men are very open and enjoy experimenting with various appearances.

For example, you can see Korean male idols frequently using makeup and skincare. In addition, Korean men are also free to experiment with fashion.

"In America, men often wear dark colors like black and gray. In Korea, it is very normal to see men wearing bright colors like pink and light blue," said Park Jihoon, a professor at Korea University.

4. Physical Contact Between Men

credit: Right Before

The behavior of Korean men is not limited to one type of masculine behavior. Feminine behaviors such as crossing legs and covering the mouth are also common in Korea.

Additionally, you often encounter male idols who are not shy to engage in physical contact, also known as skinship. Physical contact is considered normal to show closeness.

"I teach at most boys' high schools. They constantly hold hands and sit on each other's laps. No boy sees it as a problem," said Jason Iannone, a teacher in Korea.

So, that's an explanation of K-Pop culture regarding masculinity that should be known. I hope it's useful.

(kor/lmp)