Fact Box: Recent Surge of 4B Movement in the US

The recent US presidential election has sparked important interest in the South Korean 4B movement. This movement advocates for women to abstain from dating, sex, marriage, and childbirth. Following Donald Trump’s victory, many American women have turned to this radical feminist ideology. The 4B movement is now trending on social media and search engines.

What is the 4B Movement?

The 4B movement originated in South Korea in 2018. It emerged as a response to misogyny and gender inequality. The term “4B” represents four refusals – no dating men (biyeonae), no sex with men (bisekseu), no marriage (bihon), and no childbirth (bichulsan). The movement seeks to challenge traditional gender roles and empower women.

Reasons for the Surge in Interest

Interest in the 4B movement has surged following the 2024 US election. Many women feel disillusioned by the election results. Trump’s campaign focused on issues that many women viewed as threats to their rights, particularly reproductive rights. This has led to a growing sentiment among women to reject traditional relationships with men.

Social Media Impact

Social media platforms have played important role in popularising the 4B movement in the US. Videos and posts on TikTok and X (formerly Twitter) have garnered millions of views. Over 500,000 Google searches for “4B movement” occurred within 48 hours post-election. This rapid interest reflects a collective frustration among women regarding their societal roles.

Cultural Context

The 4B movement aligns with broader feminist movements globally. It resonates with women who feel oppressed by patriarchal structures. In South Korea, the movement arose from the #MeToo movement and protests against gender-based violence. American women are now drawing parallels to their own experiences, seeking empowerment through similar means.

Gender Inequality and Economic Factors

Gender inequality remains a pressing issue in both South Korea and the US. Women in South Korea earn less than men, and similar disparities exist in the US. The 4B movement marks these inequalities and encourages women to reclaim their autonomy. By refusing to engage with men, participants aim to protest systemic oppression.

Voices from the Movement

Many women have publicly expressed their support for the 4B movement. They share stories of personal empowerment and disillusionment with traditional relationships. Some advocate for a drastic reduction in birth rates as a form of protest. The movement encourages solidarity among women, encouraging a sense of community and shared purpose.

Future Implications

The rise of the 4B movement in the US may have lasting implications for gender dynamics. As more women engage with the movement, discussions around gender roles and relationships will likely evolve. The movement’s emphasis on autonomy and empowerment challenges societal norms, potentially reshaping future feminist discourse.

Important Facts for Exams:

1. 4B Movement – The 4B movement originated in South Korea in 2018. It promotes abstaining from dating sex marriage and childbirth with men. It aims to challenge traditional gender roles.
2. Escape the Corset Movement – The Escape the Corset movement began in 2016. It encourages women to reject societal beauty standards. Members protest through various means including destroying makeup and forgoing cosmetic enhancements.
3. #MeToo Movement in South Korea – The #MeToo movement gained traction in South Korea in 2017. It inspired women to share experiences of sexual harassment. This movement also brought into light issues like femicide and non-consensual pornography.
4. Gender Pay Gap – South Korean women earn 31 percent less than men. This is the highest gender pay gap in democratic countries. The disparity fuels movements like 4B advocating for women’s rights.

Category: International / World Current Affairs