This thesis examines the representation of gender in two series of Korean language textbooks: Seouldae Hangugeo 1A-3B and I Love Korean 1-6. The analysis focuses on the number of male and female characters in the dialogues (visibility), which gender starts the conversation more often, and for a more detailed picture, in which professions and activities the genders are depicted. The results show a higher visibility of men in Seouldae Hangugeo textbooks and a more balanced representation of genders in I Love Korean textbooks. Women were also more likely to initiate conversation in most textbooks. In terms of occupations, women were often shown in the roles of saleswomen, while men were rarely shown in the occupation of salesman. Activities and hobbies varied, with men more likely to be involved in sport and women more likely to be shown shopping. The results of the analysis show that while there is a better balanced representation in I Love Korean textbooks, gender stereotypes still persist, indicating the need for continuous efforts to achieve gender equality in educational materials.
|