Analysis of Representation of Gender, Nationality and Skin Color in Textbook for EPS-TOPIK
Despite the importance of the EPS-TOPIK(Employment Permit System-Test of Proficiency in Korean) exam for those who aim to work in Korea under the EPS system, not enough studies have been done on the subject of EPS-TOPIK exam and the official Textbook. In addition, studies on representation of nationality and skin color in textbooks are rare compared to such studies on gender representation. This study investigates the Textbook which hasn't been researched enough, on the matter of representation not only based on gender but also on nationality and skin color. This study analyzes the Textbook quantitatively with the focus on the 20 main characters and qualitatively on the illustrations and texts, and suggests that the Textbook should properly represent its users who intend to work in Korea under the EPS system. Stereotypes based on nationality, preference of so-called ‘Korean’ skin tone and gender inequality should be rejected. The chapter on sexual harrassment in workplace should be revised to go against victim-shaming and to contain helpful contents for sexual harrassment survivors.