Where Boys Were Kings, A Shift Toward Baby Girls

For centuries, parents in the agrarian economy of South Korea favored male children. But government campaigns and increasing work opportunities have led to a gender ratio that demonstrates a reversal in the preference for males and perhaps even a new appreciation for female children. Adult males, with the help of their wives, were once expected to care for aging parents. In recent decades, women in South Korea have acquired growing economic power and maintain connections with their own parents. Population analysts have long warned about the dangers of gender imbalances throughout Asia, pointing to gender-based abortions, limited marriage options, violent sexual and increased trafficking of women. Imbalances in economics or population can threaten stability. – YaleGlobal

Where Boys Were Kings, A Shift Toward Baby Girls

Choe Sang-Hun
Wednesday, January 9, 2008

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