A Study on Koreans’ Perception of the Word Kkondae

Abstract

This study aimed to understand better how Koreans in their 30s to their 50s perceive the word kkondae using Q-methodology, a research method that reveals the subjectivity of individuals. “Kkondae” traditionally refers to condescending older people and reveals changes between generations in Korean society. Our research results showed four types of perceptions. Type 1 participants believe kkondae are people who wield authority based on age. Type 2 participants see kkondae as people who mistakenly believe their own experiences can be generalized. Type 3 participants view kkondae as self-centered and closed-minded people who think they are superior, while Type 4 participants perceive kkondae as people who lord over others as part of hierarchical relationships. Consequently, the four types of perceptions of kkondae demonstrate that the reasons and ways of expressing conflict situations between groups are changing in Korean society.