Abstract

This paper explores the significance of female representation in Lee Jang-ho’s film adaptation of Choi In-ho’s novel, Byeoldeul-ui gohyang, within the context of 1970s South Korean literature and film. Both the novel and the film gained immense popularity as symbols of emerging youth culture, contributing significantly to the history of Korean popular culture. They played a crucial role in revitalizing the struggling film industry by catalyzing the hostess literature and film boom of the 1970s. However, despite their cultural impact, assessments of the novel and film remain mixed. This study focuses on analyzing the portrayal of the female character, O Gyeong-a, who has been both the source of their popularity and the subject of various criticisms. This paper particularly highlights the innovative elements introduced by director Lee Jang-ho, demonstrating that, contrary to popular and even academic belief that the film objectifies Gyeong-a to the extent of exploitation, it instead effectively problematizes and challenges the prevalent objectification of women in 1970s patriarchal Korean society. Furthermore, this study argues that the film marks a seminal moment in Korean cinema, showcasing the cultural adaptability and vibrancy of Korean visual media.