Students rebel against co-education plans at women's university

In South Korea, students at Dongduk women's university in Seoul have been actively protesting since November 11, 2024, in response to the university's proposal to admit male students to certain departments. The protests, which began as a sit-in and led to classes being forced online, reflect broader tensions about gender equality and the role of women-only institutions in a society grappling with demographic and educational shifts. Established in the early 20th century, Dongduk women’s university was designed to provide women with safe spaces for education in a patriarchal environment; thus, students argue that the proposed co-education threatens that security. While university administrators highlight practical reasons for the proposal, citing needs for male actors in the performing arts, the decision was perceived as unilateral and dismissive of student voices, fueling further unrest. The protests have attracted widespread attention and have been met with a backlash, including comments from politicians and backlash on social media. Han Dong-hoon, leader of the ruling conservative party, called for accountability over property damage during protests, while critics labeled the protests as uncivilized. This scenario has ignited a debate surrounding gender issues in South Korea, with voices on both sides amplifying their viewpoints. Supporters of the protests emphasize the need to preserve the unique character and intentions of women’s education, invoking a historical context where such institutions provided refuge in oppressive circumstances. Moreover, the situation coincides with South Korea's declining birth rate and changing demographics, leading to a significant downturn in student enrollment, forcing educational institutions to reconsider their frameworks. As gender conflicts and gender equality debates become more prevalent, the protests are also fueled by a rise in anti-feminist sentiments, igniting fears for the safety of violent backlash against protesters who have received harassing threats online. In the face of such upheaval, the students' determination to maintain their educational identity underscores a significant societal issue and challenges that extend far beyond university walls, reflecting the shifting dynamics of modern South Korea. As negotiations between the university and student leaders continue without a clear resolution, the outcome of these protests remains uncertain. Nevertheless, the strong student activism at Dongduk signals a pivotal moment in the ongoing struggle for women's rights and their need for secure, inclusive educational spaces.