INFO:

What is the 4B Movement? The South Korean Trend Gaining Traction in the U.S. After Donald Trump’s Win The 4B Movement is a rising social trend among young women in South Korea centred on four principles: no dating, no sex, no marriage, and no childbirth. Interest in the South Korean 4B Movement has spiked in the United States following the 2024 presidential election. During his reelection President-elect Trump praised the Supreme Court’s 2022 decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, which had protected a nationwide right to abortion. For some Americans, this brought renewed concerns about gender inequality, leaving some to feel that much of the U.S. is more comfortable with any president—just not a female one. The 4B Movement is rooted in feminist ideals, directly challenging the traditional roles South Korean women are expected to fulfil. Though South Korea has modernised rapidly, it remains a highly patriarchal society. South Korean women often face workplace discrimination, lower pay, and limited career growth. In marriage, many women are also expected to shoulder household duties, childcare, and elder care, leading to a burdensome balancing act. Economic pressures only add to the movement’s appeal. Rising living costs, high housing prices, and the expense of raising children make marriage and parenthood less attractive. By opting out of these traditional expectations, members of the 4B Movement prioritise their independence, financial stability, and well-being over societal norms. Ultimately, the 4B Movement is a radical stand for personal freedom and equality, inspiring women around the world to rethink established expectations. In the wake of Donald Trump’s 2024 reelection and renewed debates on women’s rights, the 4B Movement's message is resonating with many Americans who feel disillusioned by traditional expectations. This movement underscores a growing desire among women globally to redefine their roles and reclaim autonomy—challenging societal norms that often place limits on their choices and freedoms.