Why are young people such an eyesore?
Abstract Code: 28871

Abstract

Bourdieu explained identity in terms of class. but in a context where class distinctions are not distinctly formed in South Korea, describing class in terms of a generation has played a significant role. The ‘MZ’ norm stands out as a prevailing concern in recent discourse in South Korea. The term ‘MZ generation’ refers to individuals born between 1980 and 2010, encompassing both the Millennial and Generation Z cohorts. The perception of the MZ generation is predominantly characterized by negative impressions such as overconsumption, lack of manners, freedom of expression, and reluctance to work. Activities that effectively illustrate the characteristics of the MZ generation encompass golf, staycation, omakase, and outbound tourism. Among them, outbound tourism serves as the most compelling manifestation of MZ traits. Outbound tourism stands as one of the most fervently embraced leisure activities among the MZ generation, characterized by a significant appreciation for the aesthetic values of tourism. Conspicuous behaviors, such as highly valuing and sharing photographs on social media, are prevalent. Furthermore, the older generation often perceives these pursuits through a lens of ‘superficial’. Is the collective identity of the MZ generation truly as such? This study aims to explore how the collective identity of the MZ generation is reflected in society and to examine the veracity of this formed collective identity through the lenses of cultural capital, conspicuous consumption, and performativity theory.