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Autism Representation in Korean Media

GOOVER DAILY REPORT October 22, 2024
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

  1. Summary
  2. Portrayal of Autism in 'Extraordinary Attorney Woo'
  3. Criticism and Societal Impact
  4. Media Representation and Neurodiversity
  5. Conclusion

1. Summary

  • The South Korean Netflix series 'Extraordinary Attorney Woo' has ignited significant debate concerning its portrayal of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The show, following the story of a brilliant attorney named Woo Young-woo, has been both praised and critiqued. While it effectively raises awareness about autism and promotes discussions on neurodiversity, criticisms have surfaced regarding its unrealistic depiction, particularly concerning savant syndrome. Portraying the protagonist with remarkable intellectual abilities and a photographic memory has been seen as misleading and unrepresentative of most autistic individuals. Despite its narrative strengths, the series has sparked conversations about societal stigmas in South Korea, pushing for more realistic and authentic representations of autism through various stakeholders, including autism activists.

2. Portrayal of Autism in 'Extraordinary Attorney Woo'

  • 2-1. Autism Spectrum Disorder depiction

  • The series 'Extraordinary Attorney Woo' depicts Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) through its protagonist, Woo Young-woo, a brilliant attorney portrayed by Korean actress Park Eun-bin. The character showcases various traits commonly associated with autism, such as echolalia, sensitivity to noise and touch, rigidity, poor eye contact, and an obsessive interest in whales. While the character embodies some characteristics of those on the spectrum, there are criticisms regarding the accuracy of the portrayal. Some viewers express that the representation does not reflect the experiences of all autistic individuals, as the symptoms and experiences of autism are diverse. Furthermore, the character’s experience is viewed as unrealistic, as only approximately 10% of individuals with autism have savant syndrome like Young-woo, who possesses an exceptionally high IQ and extraordinary problem-solving abilities.

  • 2-2. Savant syndrome portrayal

  • The portrayal of savant syndrome in 'Extraordinary Attorney Woo' has garnered significant attention and controversy. The character, Woo Young-woo, is depicted as having savant syndrome with a photographic memory and an impressive IQ of 164, enabling her to solve complex legal cases with remarkable ease. However, critics argue that this representation of savant syndrome is overly dramatized and not an accurate reflection of the majority of individuals with autism. The majority of autistic individuals do not have savant abilities, and the portrayal risks reinforcing stereotypes associated with autism, which are often mythical and unrealistic. Thus, while the show contributes to raising awareness of autism, the depiction of such extreme abilities may propagate a misleading narrative.

  • 2-3. Societal stigma in South Korea

  • The show addresses underlying societal stigmas surrounding autism in South Korea. According to Son Da-eun, director of Autism Partnership Korea, autism is often associated with shame within South Korean society, resulting in families concealing the diagnosis of autistic children. The show has sparked discussions among autism activists about the need for authentic representation and inclusion of autistic individuals in media. Despite the awareness raised by the series, many activists believe that unrealistic portrayals contribute to societal biases rather than dismantling them. The stigma against disabilities remains persistent despite emerging anti-discrimination laws, manifesting in microaggressions and misconceptions regarding the capabilities and value of individuals with autism.

3. Criticism and Societal Impact

  • 3-1. Realism of representation

  • The representation of autism in 'Extraordinary Attorney Woo' has been widely discussed, particularly concerning the character Woo Young-woo, portrayed as a genius savant with an IQ of 164 and a photographic memory. Critics argue that the show presents a skewed portrayal of autism, as only 10% of individuals with autism are believed to have savant syndrome. The experiences depicted in the series do not reflect the reality for most autistic individuals in South Korea, where the societal stigma surrounding autism is pervasive. Families have described the show's depiction as 'pure fantasy,' emphasizing that autistic individuals are often not afforded the same educational and vocational opportunities as Woo Young-woo.

  • 3-2. Impact on societal views

  • The show has sparked discussions on autism within South Korea, a society where autism and disabilities are often associated with shame. Organizations like Autism Partnership Korea note that while the visibility of autism in media may help raise awareness, the unrealistic portrayal could reinforce misconceptions about autism. Although there are positive aspects to the exposure, several autism activists worry that the show may lead to distorted views, where the general public could equate autism solely with extraordinary abilities and neglect the diverse realities of autistic individuals.

  • 3-3. Concerns over casting choices

  • Concerns have arisen regarding the decision to cast an allistic actress, Park Eun-bin, to portray Woo Young-woo. Many advocates believe that hiring autistic actors would provide a more authentic representation and help combat the societal stigma attached to disabilities. Critics argue that this casting choice perpetuates the marginalization of autistic individuals, as it does not allow for a true representation of their experiences. It further highlights the ongoing challenges regarding the lack of opportunities for autistic actors in the South Korean entertainment industry.

4. Media Representation and Neurodiversity

  • 4-1. Historical context in South Korean media

  • The portrayal of autism in South Korean media has historically lacked depth and accuracy. With productions like 'Good Doctor' and now 'Extraordinary Attorney Woo,' the trend has often leaned towards depicting autistic characters as possessing extraordinary talents, which can misrepresent the reality of autism. While 'Extraordinary Attorney Woo' has sparked significant discussions, it remains a part of a broader narrative in Korean media where autism is frequently framed in a negative light, as outlined by a TikTok creator who noted that the show's title translates to 'Weird Attorney Woo.' This choice of wording has implications on societal perceptions of autism.

  • 4-2. Intersectional themes

  • The series 'Extraordinary Attorney Woo' incorporates several intersectional themes, addressing issues such as gender discrimination, societal pressures, and the importance of understanding disability within Korean culture. The character Woo Young-woo not only faces challenges related to her autism but also navigates the complexities of working in a male-dominated legal field. This intersectional approach highlights the broader societal dynamics at play, as well as the persistent stigmas surrounding disability in South Korea. Critics have pointed out that while the series raises important conversations, it presents a sanitized version of the real challenges that individuals with autism experience in society.

  • 4-3. Call for inclusive production

  • There is a growing call within the autism community and among disability rights activists for more inclusive production practices in media. Many have expressed disappointment that 'Extraordinary Attorney Woo' did not feature autistic actors in its leading roles. Comments from autism advocates stress the importance of authentic representation, as well as the need for media portrayals to reflect the diversity and realities of autistic individuals. Activists argue that involving autistic voices in the creation of such narratives can lead to more accurate and respectful portrayals that contribute positively to societal understanding of autism.

5. Conclusion

  • 'Extraordinary Attorney Woo' serves as both a landmark and contentious example of how autism is depicted in media. While offering significant visibility to Autism Spectrum Disorder and sparking conversations on related societal issues, the show has faced scrutiny for its unrealistic portrayal of savant syndrome. Only a small fraction of individuals with autism possess such extraordinary abilities, and critics argue that this level of dramatization promotes stereotypes rather than dismantling them. Additionally, autism activists and advocates have highlighted the need for authentic representation, urging the inclusion of autistic actors to provide genuine insights into the experiences of autistic individuals. Looking forward, further exploration is needed to understand the impact of such narratives on public perceptions and societal change. Expanding inclusive practices in production could facilitate more accurate portrayals and contribute to meaningful shifts in the societal understanding of autism and neurodiversity.

6. Glossary

  • 6-1. Extraordinary Attorney Woo [Television Series]

  • A South Korean Netflix series centered around an autistic lawyer, sparking discussions on autism portrayal, societal reflection on biases, and the need for authentic representation.

  • 6-2. Autism Spectrum Disorder [Medical Condition]

  • A neurodevelopmental condition portrayed in 'Extraordinary Attorney Woo,' highlighting societal stigmas and diverse experiences, with critiques on its representation in media.

  • 6-3. Savant Syndrome [Condition]

  • A rare condition emphasized in the series through the protagonist's character, drawing attention to misrepresentations and contributing to public misconceptions about autism.

7. Source Documents