President Lee Jae-myung Directs the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family to Research 'Male Discrimination'

President Lee Jae-myung has instructed the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family to conduct an in-depth study on the discrimination issues experienced by young men in their 20s and to formulate appropriate measures.

According to the minutes of the Cabinet meeting released on the 16th, President Lee emphasized the need for an official discussion on the issue of male discrimination to Deputy Minister Shin Young-sook on the 10th of last month.

The President stated, "There are areas where men feel they are being discriminated against, but there is no official discussion happening anywhere," and requested, "Since we are expanding into a Ministry of Gender Equality, we will primarily focus on women's policies, but I ask that you review plans to study male discrimination in specific areas and establish measures."

While recognizing that women are a structurally disadvantaged group in society, President Lee noted the grievances of men in certain age groups. He mentioned, "Just looking at those in their teens to early thirties, women are ahead in competitive exams and civil service tests, so men feel that 'after serving in the military, they cannot help but fall behind in competition'," referring to the feelings of reverse discrimination among young men.

Feelings of Reverse Discrimination Among Young Men

In response, Deputy Minister Shin Young-sook acknowledged that there is no department dedicated to male discrimination within the Ministry, but indicated that an analysis of gender conflict has been carried out.

He explained, "Young men are sensitive to the period of loss that comes with mandatory military service, as their own grievances remain unresolved."

The President's concern was not limited to the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family. He also directed Minister Cho Kyu-hong of the Ministry of Health and Welfare to investigate the impact of reverse discrimination and feelings of alienation experienced by young men on suicide rates and to report back.

Image source: President Lee Jae-myung / News1, reference photos to aid understanding of the article / gettyimagesbank