K Wave, Korean Film Industry, Government Support and Taxes, Analysis of Genre, Color Blindness in The Glory, Director, Writer
Me
I'm watching a K-drama called The Glory, and I don't understand something - there is a theme of colorblindness with one of the main villains and also another of the female villains and then their daughter all being color blind and they've referenced that you can actually see it in their eyes. One of them wears contacts.
ChatGPT
In "The Glory," the character Yeon-jin's daughter, Yesol, wears a red baenat jeogori, symbolizing her father's red-green color blindness. This detail highlights the family's genetic trait.
Me
The mother and the daughter appear to have that same genetic trait.
ChatGPT
Yes, you're right! In The Glory, both Yeon-jin and her daughter Yesol have the same genetic trait, which is color blindness, specifically red-green color blindness. This condition is often passed down genetically, and the show uses it as a subtle way to add depth to the characters. Yeon-jin's wearing of contact lenses may be her attempt to cover up her condition, which further emphasizes her desire for control over her image and how she wants to be seen by others. This trait also ties into the larger theme of deception in the show, as it represents how appearances and perceptions can be manipulated.
Me
But it appears that the daughter's real father also has that colorblindness, or am I mistaken?
ChatGPT
Yes, you are correct! The daughter's biological father, who is also a central character in The Glory, seems to have the same red-green color blindness. This trait runs in the family, which is why Yesol, the daughter, inherits it. This genetic connection further strengthens the link between the father and daughter, as well as Yeon-jin’s own condition, creating a subtle but important plot point about family dynamics and inherited traits.
Me
But I find it odd that both the biological father and the biological mother are colorblind. What are the chances of that happening or is that broad artistic license?
ChatGPT
You're right to question that, as it would be rare for both parents to be colorblind and for their child to inherit the condition. Red-green color blindness is a sex-linked recessive trait, carried on the X chromosome. Here's why it’s unusual in the case of both parents being colorblind:
Mothers typically pass on one of their X chromosomes to their children. If a mother is colorblind, both of her X chromosomes must carry the colorblind allele.
Fathers, on the other hand, have only one X chromosome (and one Y chromosome), so if they are colorblind, their only X chromosome carries the colorblind allele.
For the daughter to inherit color blindness from both parents:
The mother would need to have two colorblind X chromosomes.
The father would need to be colorblind (with a colorblind X chromosome).
The daughter, being female, would inherit one X chromosome from each parent. So, she would need to inherit a colorblind X chromosome from both her mother and her father.
This situation would be rare because color blindness typically affects men more than women, and it's uncommon for both parents to have this condition. It's a notable plot device in The Glory, but in real life, this scenario is statistically unusual.
Me
But am I right in finding and watching the show that both the biological mother and the biological father have this condition? The biological mother goes to stamp out a cigarette with a red ember and doesn't stamp it out because she can't see the color red, and the biological father beats up a classmate in high school because the classmate has criticized his eyes, which is another thing I don't understand. They're trying to infer that the colorblindness can actually be noticed in the eye itself?
ChatGPT said:
Yes, you're correct in observing that both the biological mother and father in The Glory have color blindness, and the show does indeed imply that the condition can be noticed in their eyes. The plot uses this visual element in a somewhat symbolic and dramatic way, but it doesn't entirely align with how color blindness works in real life.
In the show, the biological mother’s inability to stamp out the red ember of a cigarette and the biological father's reaction to the classmate's comment about his eyes are creative ways to highlight their condition, but they don't strictly adhere to how color blindness manifests. In real life, color blindness typically doesn’t cause noticeable changes in the appearance of the eyes themselves. It's a perceptual issue rather than a physical one. However, the show uses this idea to emphasize the psychological and emotional impact of being different, particularly for the characters who have something to hide or feel insecure about.
In the scene where the biological father beats up a classmate, it's likely meant to underline his deep sensitivity and anger towards being ridiculed for something he can't control — his condition. The idea that the eye itself could reveal color blindness is, in fact, a dramatic flourish, and not a medically accurate portrayal of the condition. It seems the show takes some artistic license with that concept, possibly using it to add mystery or make the colorblindness more visually impactful for the audience.
You said:
I find it to be kind of a stretch and rather unnecessary, but another question is, when the biological mother receives a gift of shoes from her husband, who is not the biological father of her daughter, the shoes appear green, but in fact, are the shoes red?
ChatGPT said:
Yes, that scene in The Glory is another instance where color blindness is used creatively, and it seems to be a key moment in showing how the biological mother, Yeon-jin, perceives the world differently due to her red-green color blindness. The shoes being red but appearing green to her is a symbolic representation of how colorblindness distorts her perception of colors.
In real life, people with red-green color blindness might confuse reds and greens, so it’s plausible that a red object might appear as green or a shade of brown, depending on the exact nature of the color blindness. However, in the context of the show, it’s also likely that this scene is meant to convey a deeper emotional or psychological effect, especially considering Yeon-jin’s complex relationships and her attempt to create a particular narrative or persona for herself, even if it's based on misperceptions.
The color shift might also serve to highlight her alienation, as she struggles to connect with others, especially with her daughter and husband. Her perception of the gift (and how the shoes are presented) could be a metaphor for her larger struggles with identity, relationships, and control. It's a subtle detail that adds a layer of complexity to her character, even though, as you've pointed out, it does feel a bit like a stretch in terms of how color blindness works.
You said:
Who was the writer of the show, and who was the director of the show?
ChatGPT said:
The Glory was written by Kim Eun-sook, a well-known South Korean screenwriter. She's famous for her work on other popular K-dramas like Goblin, Secret Garden, and Descendants of the Sun. Kim Eun-sook is recognized for creating intricate, emotionally charged narratives, often blending themes of revenge, romance, and social commentary, as seen in The Glory.
The director of The Glory is An Gil-ho, who has worked on several notable projects, including Stranger (also known as Secret Forest) and Memories of the Alhambra. His direction in The Glory is often praised for its atmospheric and tense visual storytelling, which complements the dark and emotional tones of the series.
Both Kim Eun-sook and An Gil-ho have a reputation for creating compelling dramas that resonate deeply with viewers, and The Glory is no exception.
You said:
I've recently gotten into K-dramas. I've watched Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha and Love Next Door, and now I'm watching some more dramatic kinds of dramas. I'm very impressed, for example, The Ballerina. I'm very impressed by the cinematography and the writing. How is it that the Korean film industry and TV, the sequential media industry, how did they get so good, and what is it that makes them stand out from even the American products?
ChatGPT said:
That's awesome that you're diving into K-dramas! There's definitely something special about them. The rise of Korean film and TV, especially over the past couple of decades, has been nothing short of phenomenal, and there are several factors contributing to their success and distinctiveness.
Cultural and Narrative Depth: Korean dramas often balance rich cultural traditions with modern storytelling. The themes they explore, such as family dynamics, societal pressure, love, and revenge, resonate deeply with audiences. There's often an emotional core that connects viewers in a very personal way. This emotional investment is a key part of the appeal, as the narratives tend to be more grounded and relatable, even if they are heightened by melodrama or unique plot twists.
Cinematography: As you've noticed in shows like The Ballerina, the cinematography is a big strength. Korean dramas often invest heavily in visuals and production value. Cinematographers and directors work meticulously to create stunning shots, often with the use of colors, composition, and lighting to reinforce the emotions of the scene. This attention to visual storytelling stands out and adds a layer of artistry to the content that some American shows may overlook in favor of faster pacing or spectacle.
Character Development: K-dramas are known for deep and nuanced character development, sometimes across several episodes or even seasons. This gives characters time to grow, change, or get caught up in their own complexities. Unlike some Western shows that may rely on archetypal or superficial characters, K-dramas allow for more exploration of psychology and emotion, making the characters feel more real and multi-dimensional.
Pacing and Structure: Korean TV shows typically follow a tighter, more structured episode count compared to American TV shows, especially the typical 16 to 20 episodes in a season. This allows for more focused storytelling without as many filler episodes. The pacing can be faster, yet it still allows for meaningful development, and there's a clear sense of progress towards a conclusion. The combination of tight writing with focused narratives often leads to more satisfying arcs and endings.
Strong Writing and Genres: Korean dramas excel at blending multiple genres, often mixing romance with crime, thriller, fantasy, or historical drama. The versatility in genre allows for creative and unpredictable storytelling. Whether it’s a blend of psychological tension with heartfelt moments, or integrating traditional storytelling with futuristic elements, K-dramas often push boundaries in a way that feels fresh. Writers like Kim Eun-sook, for example, are incredibly skilled at creating compelling, emotionally intense stories that are full of twists and turns while still being rooted in human experience.
Cultural Influence: The rise of Korean dramas can also be linked to the Hallyu (Korean Wave), which has helped spread Korean pop culture globally. The blending of pop culture, music, fashion, and art into the storytelling makes K-dramas feel not only like entertainment but also like a cultural experience. There's an emphasis on aesthetics, fashion, and music that adds layers of appeal to the shows, which often make them feel stylish and contemporary, setting them apart from their Western counterparts.
Global Appeal: The universal themes in K-dramas — love, loss, vengeance, family struggles — can easily transcend language and cultural barriers. The accessibility through platforms like Netflix has allowed Korean dramas to spread worldwide, giving them exposure to a global audience that’s craving fresh, emotionally resonant content. The success of series like Squid Game and The Glory proves that international viewers are eager for new types of storytelling.
Focus on Quality Over Quantity: The Korean industry places a great emphasis on producing high-quality content rather than churning out numerous shows with uneven quality. The relatively smaller number of episodes per season, coupled with more time spent on refining the scripts and directing, means viewers are treated to a more polished final product. This contrasts with the sometimes commercial-driven, long-running nature of American shows, where lengthier seasons may dilute focus.
Cultural Respect and Sensitivity: K-dramas often treat sensitive topics with care and respect, handling issues like mental health, societal pressures, and emotional struggles in a way that resonates deeply with viewers. There is often a sense of morality, redemption, and growth that adds a thoughtful layer to the drama.
In short, Korean dramas stand out because of their combination of cinematic artistry, deeply relatable storytelling, emotional resonance, and strong cultural elements. It's the perfect balance of tradition and innovation, which is why they've been able to capture such a broad global audience. The rise of platforms like Netflix has allowed more people worldwide to appreciate the craft behind K-dramas and given creators the freedom to produce high-quality content.
You said:
(Cut off by CG)...industry financed by the government like they do with K Pop.
ChatGPT said:
Yes, you’re absolutely right to point out the role of government support, particularly through entities like the Korea Creative Content Agency (KCCA) and the Korean Film Council (KOFIC), which play a huge role in promoting and financing the entertainment industry in Korea.
The South Korean government has actively supported the growth of the cultural and entertainment sectors for several decades, recognizing their potential as both economic drivers and cultural ambassadors. Here's how this support works:
Government Grants and Funding: The South Korean government has made significant investments in the film and television industries. These funds often come from grants or subsidies designed to support domestic production companies, especially for independent filmmakers and smaller production houses. This financial backing helps foster creative and diverse content, ensuring that there’s not just mainstream entertainment but also innovative and experimental work.
Cultural Diplomacy: Through initiatives like the Hallyu (Korean Wave), the South Korean government has used entertainment as a tool of cultural diplomacy. By promoting K-pop, K-dramas, and Korean cinema abroad, the government has been able to position Korea as a cultural powerhouse. The spread of Korean media globally has contributed to the nation’s soft power, influencing international perceptions of Korea and making it a key player in the global entertainment market.
Support for Talent Development: In addition to funding content, the government invests in education and training programs to cultivate talent in the entertainment industry. This includes everything from film schools to workshops for writers, directors, and actors. The aim is to build a long-term, sustainable creative workforce that can continue to produce high-quality, innovative content.
Tax Incentives and Support for Foreign Investment: The government also offers various incentives for foreign investment in the South Korean entertainment sector. These tax breaks and other perks help attract international producers and production companies to collaborate with Korean firms, making it a more competitive industry.
Promotion of Global Distribution: The government has helped facilitate international distribution for Korean dramas and films. By negotiating deals with global streaming services like Netflix and encouraging festivals and awards, the Korean government has helped elevate Korean entertainment onto the global stage, making it more accessible worldwide.
Infrastructure Support: The government also helps build the infrastructure needed to support the industry, from state-of-the-art film studios to distribution channels and more. This infrastructure enables the industry to scale, improving both production quality and the global competitiveness of Korean content.
Policy Focus on Content Diversity: The government has also emphasized supporting a wide range of content, from historical dramas to futuristic thrillers, creating a diverse entertainment ecosystem. This focus on diversity has made Korean content more appealing to a global audience, as it offers something for every taste.
In short, the government’s support plays a crucial role in fostering the growth of the Korean entertainment industry. It’s a combination of financial support, infrastructure development, talent nurturing, and strategic international promotion that has propelled K-drama and Korean films to global success. Without this backing, it’s likely that the K-wave would not have achieved the same level of international influence that it enjoys today.
You said:
So the cinematographers, the writers, the people that work in the film industry over there are being trained in Korea and not, say, over in the United States and then going back to their country. They actually have a very robust academia in Korea.
ChatGPT said:
Yes, exactly! South Korea has a strong and robust education system for aspiring filmmakers, writers, and cinematographers, and much of the talent that drives the success of Korean TV and film comes from homegrown talent that’s trained domestically rather than abroad. The country has developed a sophisticated educational infrastructure dedicated to the arts, with several prestigious institutions providing specialized training in film, television, and media production.
Here are a few key points on how the education system in South Korea supports the entertainment industry:
Top Film Schools: South Korea has renowned universities that specialize in film and media studies, such as the Korean Academy of Film Arts (KAFA) and Chung-Ang University, among others. KAFA, in particular, is often considered the top school for film studies in the country and has produced many of the country's leading directors, cinematographers, and writers. These schools focus on both the theoretical and practical aspects of filmmaking, combining technical skills with a deep understanding of storytelling and film history.
Training in Multiple Disciplines: The Korean education system for the arts is comprehensive. Students can specialize in various aspects of filmmaking such as directing, cinematography, screenwriting, sound design, editing, and production design. This breadth of training ensures that students are well-prepared to handle multiple aspects of film and TV production.
Support for Creative and Experimental Work: Korean film schools also emphasize creative freedom and artistic exploration. While the industry is known for its commercial success, Korean film schools encourage students to experiment with different genres, narrative styles, and technical approaches. This helps foster a culture of innovation, where filmmakers are not afraid to push boundaries and challenge conventional storytelling techniques.
Cultural Relevance and National Identity: A major focus in the education of filmmakers in Korea is also understanding and reflecting the country’s unique culture, history, and societal issues. Many of the popular K-dramas and films deal with themes that resonate deeply with local audiences, often drawing on Korea's modern history, social issues, and familial relationships. This cultural grounding helps make Korean content relatable to both domestic and international audiences.
Networking and Industry Access: Film schools in Korea also have strong ties with the industry, and many students gain internships or job opportunities with production companies while they’re still in school. This connection between academia and industry ensures that students are well-prepared for the competitive entertainment world upon graduation.
Government Support for Film Education: As part of its broader strategy to promote cultural and creative industries, the South Korean government supports education in film and media. Scholarships, grants, and funding for artistic projects are available for students who show promise, and there are policies in place that encourage collaboration between universities, production companies, and media organizations.
International Recognition: While much of the talent comes from within South Korea, the global appeal of Korean entertainment has encouraged some filmmakers and actors to pursue further studies abroad or gain international experience. However, the core of the industry’s success continues to be deeply rooted in domestic training and local talent.
So, while there may be some filmmakers who study abroad or gain international experience, the majority of the talent behind Korea’s impressive cinematic output is trained in South Korea itself. The country's education system, combined with its government support and a strong, dynamic industry, has created a thriving creative ecosystem that nurtures homegrown talent. This is a big part of what has contributed to the global success of Korean content today.
You said:
This all sounds expensive, and as we know, government spending means taxpayer spending. What's the tax structure in Korea? Is it like Europe, where they take 40% of your paycheck? Or is it more like the United States, where it's 15% to 20%?
ChatGPT said:
South Korea does have a progressive tax system, and its tax rates can be relatively high, especially compared to the United States, but not quite as high as in some European countries. The tax structure is designed to fund various government programs, including those that support the creative industries like film and TV, as well as infrastructure, education, and welfare. Here’s a general overview of the key taxes in South Korea:
1. Income Tax:
South Korea's income tax system is progressive, which means that the tax rate increases as your income rises. For individuals, the income tax brackets are as follows:
Up to 12 million KRW (approximately 9,000 USD): 6%
Over 12 million KRW and up to 46 million KRW (9,000 USD to 35,000 USD): 15%
Over 46 million KRW and up to 88 million KRW (35,000 USD to 67,000 USD): 24%
Over 88 million KRW and up to 150 million KRW (67,000 USD to 113,000 USD): 35%
Over 150 million KRW and up to 300 million KRW (113,000 USD to 226,000 USD): 38%
Over 300 million KRW (226,000 USD and beyond): 40%
So, in South Korea, if you're earning above 300 million KRW, your income would be taxed at the highest rate of 40%, but the rate only applies to income above that threshold.
2. Social Insurance:
In addition to income tax, South Korea has mandatory social insurance programs, including pensions, health insurance, and unemployment insurance. These programs are funded by both employers and employees. The total contribution for employees generally hovers around 7-9% of your income, depending on the exact type of insurance.
3. Value-Added Tax (VAT):
South Korea has a 10% VAT on most goods and services. This tax is passed on to consumers at the point of sale and can significantly impact the cost of living.
4. Corporate Tax:
Corporate tax rates in South Korea are also progressive:
Up to 200 million KRW (about 150,000 USD): 10%
Over 200 million KRW and up to 20 billion KRW (150,000 USD to 15 million USD): 20%
Over 20 billion KRW (15 million USD and beyond): 22%
For larger companies, these corporate tax rates can be a significant factor in overall costs.
5. Other Taxes:
South Korea has several other taxes, including property taxes, inheritance taxes, and capital gains taxes. For example, property taxes can be quite high for wealthy individuals, with rates that can range from 0.25% to 4% of the property value, depending on the location and value of the property.
6. Effective Tax Rates:
The effective tax rate for an average worker in South Korea is likely to be somewhere around 15-25% of their income, depending on their salary. For higher earners, the taxes can increase significantly, but the average tax burden for middle-income earners isn’t as high as in some European countries.
Comparison with the U.S. and Europe:
United States: The tax structure in the U.S. is somewhat lower on average, with federal income taxes generally ranging from 10% to 37% (for higher earners). State and local taxes vary significantly, but on average, a middle-class American might see an effective tax rate between 15% and 25%.
Europe: Many European countries, like those in Scandinavia, have higher tax rates, especially in the higher income brackets. In places like Sweden, Denmark, and Germany, the average effective tax rate can easily exceed 30-40%, especially when you factor in high value-added taxes and social insurance contributions.
Conclusion:
South Korea’s tax rates are moderate by global standards, with the highest earners paying up to 40% of their income. While not as high as some European countries, the tax system supports extensive social programs and government investment in industries like the arts, infrastructure, and technology. For those at the lower end of the income spectrum, it’s more manageable, but for higher earners, taxes are more substantial, though not as burdensome as some European countries with very high taxes.
