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Autism Representation in Korean Drama

GOOVER DAILY REPORT October 27, 2024
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

  1. Summary
  2. Portrayal of Autism in Media
  3. Public and Critical Reception
  4. Influence on Societal Perceptions
  5. Implications for Autism Awareness and Policy
  6. Conclusion

1. Summary

  • The South Korean drama 'Extraordinary Attorney Woo' centers around a young attorney with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), eliciting a mixed public and critical reception. While it has been lauded for bringing autism into mainstream discussion, it faces backlash for depicting autistic traits unrealistically. Central to the debate is the portrayal of the protagonist's genius qualities, which are a rarity in the wider autistic community. Critics argue that such representations risk solidifying misconceptions, with advocates like Son Da-eun from Autism Partnership Korea highlighting the public's potential misunderstanding. The report further examines how media portrayals like this affect societal perceptions, comparing 'Extraordinary Attorney Woo' with other Korean dramas, and evaluates the consequential advocacy for more authentic representation.

2. Portrayal of Autism in Media

  • 2-1. Debate on positive and negative frames of autism

  • The portrayal of autism in 'Extraordinary Attorney Woo' has sparked a significant debate regarding its representation. While the show has garnered attention for increasing awareness about Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), it faces criticism for depicting individuals with autism in a way that many consider unrealistic. The title 'Extraordinary Attorney Woo' itself has been criticized, as the Korean translation includes the word 'weird,' which some argue frames autism negatively. Critics, including autistic creators, have expressed frustration about the representation, stating that characters in media often embody traits associated with genius, which do not reflect the diversity of the autistic population. For instance, only 10 percent of autistic individuals display 'genius-like' traits, leading to misconceptions about autism. Autism Partnership Korea employee Son Da-eun highlighted that portraying autism as a 'superpower' can confuse public perceptions and does not contribute to authentic understanding.

  • 2-2. Comparison with previous portrayals in Korean media

  • 'Extraordinary Attorney Woo' is not the first Korean drama to focus on a main character with autism. It draws comparisons to the earlier series 'Good Doctor,' which also portrays an autistic doctor. However, reactions to these portrayals differ significantly. In contrast to 'Extraordinary Attorney Woo', some audiences have characterized this new drama as 'pure fantasy', suggesting a greater disconnect between the show's depiction and the lived experiences of many autistic individuals. The lead character in 'Extraordinary Attorney Woo' is presented with extraordinary skills like an IQ of 164 and a photographic memory, traits that do not represent the typical range of characteristics among autistic individuals. Families of autistic people in South Korea have pointed out that opportunities and experiences portrayed in the show do not align with real-life challenges faced by many in the autistic community.

3. Public and Critical Reception

  • 3-1. Critique from autism activists and experts

  • The reception of 'Extraordinary Attorney Woo' has been mixed, with considerable critique coming from autism activists and experts. Criticism centers around the portrayal of the main character, Attorney Woo, who is depicted with genius-like traits, suggesting that such abilities are common among individuals with autism. An autistic creator on TikTok highlighted that this character portrayal can lead to misconceptions about what autism really is, stating that most autistic individuals do not exhibit these 'superpowers.' Experts, including Son Da-eun from Autism Partnership Korea, noted that the representation contributes to a misunderstanding of autism in society, particularly because the character’s abilities are reflective of only about 10% of the autistic population.

  • 3-2. Praise for awareness but criticism on realism

  • While the show has been praised for raising awareness about Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), it has faced significant criticism for unrealistic portrayals. The show gained attention after its release on Netflix, primarily for its unique premise focusing on a lawyer with autism. Activists have acknowledged that the exposure provided by the show can foster discussions around autism in South Korea, where societal views on disabilities often involve stigma and shame, as highlighted by Son Da-eun. However, many argue that the dramatized depiction of allowances and success for the character Attorney Woo does not align with the experiences of most individuals with autism in real life.

  • 3-3. Concerns on the lack of authentic representation

  • Concerns have been raised regarding the lack of authentic representation in 'Extraordinary Attorney Woo,' particularly because the main character is played by an actress who does not have autism. Critics have suggested that including autistic individuals in casting and production roles could provide a more accurate representation of autism in media. Some viewers have expressed distress over the stereotype perpetuated by the show, as it can lead to audiences believing that all autistic individuals fit the narrow mold presented in the show. While the portrayal of some behaviors commonly associated with autism was noted, many assert that not all autistic people experience these characteristics, emphasizing the need for diverse and comprehensive representation.

4. Influence on Societal Perceptions

  • 4-1. Impact of character traits on societal views

  • The character of Attorney Woo in 'Extraordinary Attorney Woo' significantly impacts societal views on Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Her extraordinary traits, including a high IQ and exceptional memorization skills, are often viewed as representations of what individuals with autism can achieve. However, the portrayal raises concerns since only a small percentage of individuals with autism have such capabilities. The series highlights the human side of autism, challenging misconceptions about the disorder and advocating for greater understanding of the diverse abilities of autistic individuals.

  • 4-2. Potential role in promoting empathy and acceptance

  • The drama has the potential to promote empathy and acceptance among viewers. By presenting an autistic character in a leading role, it humanizes those with ASD and facilitates discussions about autism that are often considered taboo. Audience reactions suggest that many viewers, including those with autism, find some level of identification with Attorney Woo, which can foster a sense of community and understanding. However, criticism arises over the show's unrealistic portrayal, prompting discussions on the importance of authentic representation in media.

  • 4-3. Advocacy for inclusive representation in media

  • The series has sparked advocacy for more inclusive representation in media, reflecting the experiences and voices of individuals with autism. Critics emphasize the necessity for media creators to involve disabled individuals in the production process to enhance authenticity and provide accurate portrayals of autism. Initiatives from autism advocates highlight the ongoing stigma surrounding autism, particularly in South Korea, and underscore the need for societal change driven through authentic media representations that challenge stereotypes and facilitate acceptance.

5. Implications for Autism Awareness and Policy

  • 5-1. Awareness efforts by organizations like Shuchona Foundation

  • The Shuchona Foundation is pivotal in spreading awareness about autism in Bangladesh. Their efforts have included various awareness campaigns designed to educate the public on Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). They have pursued key policy-level interventions that have led to significant legislative actions. Notable achievements include the endorsement of the disability rights law and the neurodevelopmental disability protection law. These initiatives aim to align national policies with the international goals of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD). The increase in awareness brought about by media portrayals, such as the K-drama 'Extraordinary Attorney Woo', emphasizes the importance of these organizations in changing societal perceptions of autism.

  • 5-2. Need for policy changes to support autistic individuals

  • There is a pressing need for policy changes to create a supportive environment for individuals with autism. Despite existing legislation, challenges remain in effectively accommodating autistic individuals in mainstream educational and professional settings. The portrayal of Attorney Woo highlights the stigma that surrounds autism and reflects broader issues within societal systems that inadequately support diverse needs. In Bangladesh, the lack of comprehensive data on the extent of ASD, partly due to stigma, emphasizes the necessity for informed policy-making. Continued advocacy from organizations like Shuchona Foundation will be essential in driving these necessary changes to ensure inclusivity and support for those with ASD.

6. Conclusion

  • The portrayal of autism in 'Extraordinary Attorney Woo' emphasizes the dichotomy between raising awareness and accurate representation, a dilemma prevalent in many media representations of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). While the show's reach provides an opportunity to foster empathy and discussion, its focus on an exceptionally gifted character might distort public perception about the diversity of autistic experiences. Concerns have been raised about the lack of autistic actors and creative involvement, underscoring the need for inclusive storytelling. Although organizations like Shuchona Foundation actively promote representation accuracy, significant challenges in policy adaptation to genuinely accommodate autistic individuals persist. Future media should strive for authentic and broad-spectrum depictions that reflect the real-life diversity of the autistic community, thereby enhancing societal understanding and supporting policy reformations to better integrate autistic individuals into societal frameworks. Continued advocacy and awareness efforts remain crucial to achieving these ends, promising a more inclusive environment in both media landscapes and real-world interactions.

7. Glossary

  • 7-1. Extraordinary Attorney Woo [Television Drama]

  • 'Extraordinary Attorney Woo' is a South Korean drama series that has gained prominence for its portrayal of a young autistic attorney. While it raises awareness of autism spectrum disorder, it has sparked debate regarding the realism and authenticity of its representation. The series plays a crucial role in bringing autism into public discourse, emphasizing the need for diverse and accurate portrayals in media.

  • 7-2. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) [Condition]

  • Autism Spectrum Disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by difficulties in social interaction, communication, and repetitiveness in behaviors. The condition has varying degrees of severity, and the media portrayal in 'Extraordinary Attorney Woo' has been critiqued for focusing predominantly on 'genius' aspects, which only a small fraction of the autistic population possesses.

  • 7-3. Shuchona Foundation [Organization]

  • Shuchona Foundation is an organization in Bangladesh that focuses on raising awareness about autism, advocating for policy changes, and supporting autistic individuals. Their efforts highlight the importance of including disabled voices in discussions about representation and ensuring accurate portrayals in media to promote societal understanding and acceptance.

8. Source Documents