Seoul Councillor Faces Backlash for Blaming Women for Rising Male Suicides in South Korea

In South Korea, a Seoul City councillor named Kim Ki-duck is facing backlash for his controversial remarks linking the rise in male suicides to the increasing role of women in society. Kim argued that women's growing presence in the workforce has made it challenging for men to secure jobs and find marriage partners, leading to a rise in male suicide attempts. These comments have been criticized as out-of-touch and misguided, with experts emphasizing the need for a scientific study to understand the root causes of the issue. Kim's assessment was based on data showing a significant increase in suicide attempts by men along Seoul's Han River bridges, with the proportion of male attempts rising from 67% to 77% between 2018 and 2023. Despite his claims of a shift towards a "female-centric society," experts point out that men have historically had higher suicide rates globally, irrespective of gender equality status. Blaming feminism and gender dynamics for societal problems is not a new phenomenon in South Korea, where gender equality has actually regressed in recent years. The Justice Party accused Kim of unfairly blaming women for societal challenges and perpetuating gender discrimination. Another Seoul councillor had previously come under fire for suggesting that women should focus on gymnastics and pelvic exercises to boost the birth rate, further highlighting the contentious gender roles debate in the country. South Korea's struggle with high suicide rates and gender inequality underscores the complex social issues at play, requiring a nuanced and evidence-based approach to address the underlying causes. As South Korea grapples with its suicide problem and gender role divisions, the need for constructive dialogue and policies promoting gender equality and mental health support is paramount. The controversy surrounding Kim's comments serves as a reminder of the importance of informed discussions and evidence-based solutions to tackle societal challenges effectively. With the country's gender equality ranking declining and societal tensions on the rise, addressing these issues with sensitivity and understanding is crucial for fostering a more inclusive and equitable society in South Korea.