South Korean Men Find New Purpose in the Kitchen

Gender politics in South Korea is changing and it’s starting in the kitchen. Traditionally, South Korean men did not involve themselves in housework, as it was typically left to their wives. But Reuters has identified a trend of men stepping into culinary roles traditionally delegated to women.

Men who were previously accustomed to rolling in from a long day and allowing their wives to control all the housework are now cooking. Businessmen are even taking classes in the subject. Others are trying to incorporate this cooking trend into company activities. Social norms regarding cooking might be exhibiting these signs of change in Korea because more women are attaining successful careers. Still, Reuters also says that a willingness to cook dinner has not pushed men into other parts of the home — at least not yet.