South Korea's Village Heads: Why Are They Still Mostly Men?

The position of "Ijang" (village head) in South Korea, a crucial link between local communities and administrative bodies, is facing scrutiny over its persistent gender imbalance. Historically rooted in the Joseon Dynasty's administrative structure, the Ijang role evolved over time, with selection methods shifting from popular vote to appointment. Today, Ijangs are recommended by resident assemblies or elected through referendums before being appointed by town or township officials.

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Ijangs are individuals who perform voluntary and autonomous service, acting as a bridge between administrative agencies and residents, and are difficult to consider as public officials under constitutional protection.

Although not formal civil servants, Ijangs receive compensation for their administrative support, including activity allowances, meeting fees, and expense reimbursements. They often act as indispensable problem-solvers in rural areas, facilitating applications for support programs, identifying vulnerable households, and relaying resident concerns to higher authorities. In emergencies, they serve as key communication hubs and on-site managers, as demonstrated by a swift response that minimized casualties during a wildfire in Sancheong County.

However, opportunities to become an Ijang are not equally available to all residents. Data from the National Human Rights Commission reveals a stark gender disparity: over a decade, 90.6% of Ijangs were men, compared to only 8.4% for women. In Jeju province, the rate of female Ijangs is as low as 2.5%. This imbalance is attributed to indirect discrimination embedded in local government rules and village bylaws, which often grant voting or recommendation rights primarily to male heads of households.

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In areas where administrative reach is limited, Ijangs are seen as all-around problem solvers.

The article expresses a hope for greater female representation, wishing to hear more female voices in village broadcasts and leadership roles. The persistent underrepresentation highlights a need to address systemic barriers that prevent women from fully participating in local governance and leadership.

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In the past 10 years, 90.6% of Ijangs nationwide were men, while only 8.4% were women.