Mocking Poverty for Likes? Korea Debates a Viral Meme Trend

A new social media trend in South Korea, known as the “poverty meme,” is causing controversy online. The trend shows people claiming to live in “severe poverty” while posting photos of luxury items such as expensive cars, overseas trips, or large amounts of cash.

The meme has spread quickly on the platform Threads. Some popular posts show instant noodles or simple meals placed next to luxury brand items, often written in a joking or sarcastic tone. Supporters say the trend is harmless humor or self-deprecating satire.

However, many people strongly disagree. Critics argue that the meme makes light of real poverty and turns economic hardship into a joke. Young adults facing high living costs and job insecurity say the trend feels insensitive and disrespectful.

Public figures have also criticized the trend. Singer and actor Kim Dong-wan said poverty should never be used as a joke. Others compared the trend to the short story Stolen Poverty by Park Wan-seo, which criticizes wealthy people who pretend to be poor without understanding real suffering.

Experts say the trend reflects deeper social issues in South Korea, including growing inequality and intense competition over social status. Sociologists warn that joking about poverty can hide the real struggles of low-income groups and reduce empathy toward vulnerable communities.

Source : http://koreabizwire.com/mocking-poverty-for-likes-korea-debates-a-viral-meme-trend/340884

Comprehension

What is the “poverty meme” trend about?
On which social media platform did the trend become popular?
Why do critics say the trend is harmful?
Which public figure spoke out against using poverty as humor?
According to experts, what social problem does the trend reflect?

Discussion

Do you think the “poverty meme” is harmless humor or disrespectful? Why?
Should there be limits on what people joke about on social media?
How can humor sometimes hide serious social problems?
Why might people feel uncomfortable when wealth and poverty are mixed in jokes?
How can social media users show empathy toward people facing real hardship?

Vocabulary

Backlash – strong public criticism or negative reaction.
Conspicuous – easily noticed; meant to attract attention.
Satire – humor that uses irony to criticize society or behavior.
Trivialize – to treat something serious as if it were unimportant.
Inequality – unfair differences in wealth, opportunities, or treatment.