On social media, patriarchal stereotypes are often reinforced through songs and memes. Negative gender roles are frequently amplified through humor that appears harmless on the surface.

Social movements like #MeToo and "Escape the Corset" have sparked widespread discussions about gender expectations and norms. These movements provide a platform for people to speak out and encourage society to critically reflect on long-held stereotypes.

Nevertheless, memes and short videos have subtly begun to spread patriarchal attitudes in recent years. A good example is Potty Monkey's song lyric, "남자니까 *약할 수도 있지 뭐." On the surface, the phrase appears sympathetic, but many viral edits overlay it with footage of men being domineering, violent, or not being held accountable. The expression then serves as a cover for male privilege or superiority rather than a statement of emotional vulnerability.

Image source: Album cover of "남자니까" by Potty Monkey

It shapes how people of all genders absorb and adapt to societal standards. Frequent exposure to such content, especially among young people, may influence their understanding of what constitutes "feminine" or "masculine" behavior. When left unexamined, comedy becomes a tool through which outdated ideas persist without question.

These are more than just jokes—they shape our perceptions of gender. By examining both the message and the medium, we can better understand the impact of the digital content we consume every day.

서민경 강남포스트 학생기자  webmaster@ignnews.kr

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