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The Influence of Korean Pop Stars' Image Presentation on Chinese High Schoolers' Gender Role Perception

Author(s)

Jinjing Huang1,*,#, Mohan Li2,#, Chuchu Liu3,#, Luya Chen4,#

Affiliation(s)

1Greenhill School, Addison, Texas, USA 2Beijing 21st Century School, Beijing, China 3Beijing Etown Academy, Beijing, China 4Ready Global Academy, Columbus, Ohio, USA *Corresponding Author #These authors contribute equally to this work.

Abstract

In recent years, K-pop has become a cultural phenomenon in China, particularly among high school students. This study investigates the influence of Korean pop stars’ image presentation on Chinese high schoolers’ perceptions of gender roles, including masculinity, femininity, and gender equality. By employing a mixed-method approach—combining questionnaires (n=180) and in-depth interviews (n=12)—the study explores how frequent engagement with K-pop content correlates with evolving gender perceptions. Statistical methods such as Spearman’s rank-order correlation and OLS regression analysis reveal that while the impact is generally positive, it remains moderate. Notably, female high schoolers show greater sensitivity to gender-related portrayals in K-pop compared to their male counterparts. Interview data further suggests that students’ perception shifts are not solely shaped by K-pop, but also influenced by their pre-existing beliefs and the specific idols or groups they follow. The findings underscore K-pop’s dual role: challenging traditional gender stereotypes while simultaneously reinforcing certain norms through commercial packaging and industry practices. This research provides valuable insights for educators, parents, and policymakers to better understand how global pop culture intersects with youth identity development and gender ideology in modern China.

Keywords

K-pop; Gender Stereotypes; Youth Identity; Masculinity and Femininity; Chinese Teenagers

References

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