The 4B movement, a feminist ideology originating in South Korea in 2015–2016, has emerged as a bold critique of traditional gender roles and societal expectations for women. The movement’s name is derived from four Korean expressions: bisekseu (no sex with men), biyeonae (no dating), bichulsan (no childbirth), and bihon (no marriage). By rejecting these conventions, 4B aims to dismantle patriarchal structures that perpetuate gender inequity. As the movement evolves, its influence has extended beyond South Korea, finding new relevance in countries like the United States, where it aligns with ongoing feminist struggles.
South Korea’s deeply entrenched gender disparities and cultural expectations have long been informed by Confucian traditions, which prioritize family, hierarchical relationships, and male authority. Despite its modern economy and democratic institutions, the country grapples with stark gender inequality. In the mid-2010s, increasing awareness of issues like workplace harassment, digital sex crimes, and rigid beauty standards spurred a wave of feminist activism. The 4B movement emerged in this climate as a radical response to systemic sexism, calling for women to reject roles that prioritize male desires over their autonomy.
A parallel cultural force was the South Korean #MeToo movement, which also highlighted gender-based violence and power abuses in politics, entertainment, and the workplace. Inspired by the global #MeToo movement, South Korean activists adapted it to address local issues, including the societal pressures tied to Confucian ideals. Together, these movements created a feminist awakening, challenging patriarchal norms deeply embedded in the country’s cultural and institutional fabric.
In 2024, following Donald Trump’s presidential election victory, the 4B movement saw a resurgence, particularly among liberal women in the United States. The election amplified concerns that had been building since the overturning of Roe v. Wade in 2022, which significantly restricted abortion access nationwide and reignited debates over reproductive rights. This period also coincided with a surge in online misogyny, where platforms amplified anti-feminist rhetoric, further fueling anxieties about gender equality. Against this backdrop, young women increasingly turned to the 4B movement, drawn by its core principles as a response to the growing threat to their rights and autonomy.
The 4B philosophy offered a framework for women to regain personal autonomy and challenge societal expectations. For many, it became a means of self-preservation in the face of political and cultural regression. Women expressed their frustrations by committing to reject emotional labor in relationships, boycotting male-dominated businesses, and seeking alternative ways to build community and solidarity. The movement fostered an environment where women could redefine their social roles and advocate for structural change.
Social media platforms became key arenas for these discussions. From TikTok to Instagram, feminist influencers began exploring themes of emotional labor, the economic cost of traditional relationships, and the importance of self-determination. Online forums like Reddit’s r/FemaleDatingStrategy also played a role in amplifying the movement, with women sharing experiences and strategies to prioritize their needs and autonomy.
Despite its appeal, the 4B movement has faced significant criticism. Skeptics argue that its rejection of traditional institutions like marriage and family could lead to social fragmentation and undermine collective progress on broader feminist issues, such as equal pay and workplace discrimination. Others point out that the movement risks alienating women who find value in these institutions or who seek incremental rather than radical change.
In South Korea, opponents of 4B often cite the declining birthrate as a reason to push back against its ideals, framing the movement as socially irresponsible. Similarly, in the U.S., critics argue that the movement’s individualistic approach may not address systemic problems like wage inequality or the lack of childcare support. However, proponents counter that 4B is not about rejecting men or society outright but rather about creating a space where women’s needs and desires are prioritized.
The ideals of the 4B movement—self-determination, autonomy, and the rejection of patriarchal expectations—have struck a chord with women seeking solidarity and empowerment. Whether in South Korea or the United States, its principles challenge deeply ingrained cultural norms while fostering conversations about feminism’s future.
In the U.S., the movement’s revival reflects a broader struggle for gender equity amid political and cultural backlash. While its longevity and impact remain uncertain, the 4B movement provides a lens through which women can imagine alternative ways of living and resisting oppression.
As feminist movements continue to evolve, 4B’s radical message underscores the importance of personal agency and collective action in the fight against patriarchal structures, making it a powerful force in modern feminism.
Image by Chloe Simpson from Unsplash
