[The Glitch #14] The Opium Wars to K-pop: The Ever-Changing Face of Drug Perceptions
November 30, 2023 — In the hustle of Korean life, where every moment is a symphony of work, study, and relentless development, there's a new conversation taking center stage—drugs. Asia Society Korea Senior Contributor David Tizzard and Senior Program and Content Officer Michelle Yaeri Kang dissect the media's relentless bombardment of drug narratives, questioning the dissonance between sensational headlines and the mundane reality of everyday life.
Tune into the latest episode of "The Glitch" to navigate the historical currents that have shaped our views on drugs. From the opulence of the Western mind's early experimentation to the geopolitical tremors of the Opium Wars in Asia, The Glitch paints a vivid tapestry of interconnected histories that linger in the present. The discussion also focuses on South Korea, where societal expectations weigh heavily on the shoulders of celebrities. From the draconian measures of the past to the modern-day challenges faced by K-pop idols, unravel the narrative often obscured by the glossy veneer of stardom.
Watch the video and ponder the nuances of drug control, whether it is a scientific pursuit, a product of history, or a mirror reflecting cultural and political ideologies.
The Glitch is Asia Society Korea's digital portal into South Korean culture, politics, law, and society.