Representation of Asian Women within Male-Dominated Workplaces in Gadis Kretek (2023) and Kill Boksoon (2023)

Abstract

This study investigates the portrayal of Asian women in male-dominated industries through the analysis of the Netflix film Kill Boksoon (2023) and the Netflix series Gadis Kretek (2023). The primary objective is to explore the representation of Asian women across different media narratives, with a particular focus on occupational environments characterized by male predominance. Furthermore, the study utilizes Van Zoonen’ s (1985) theory of gender representation in the media, which delineates eleven characteristics of females and males. Focusing on the representation of female characters, the findings identify eight recurring traits in the depiction of Asian women across both texts. These characteristics frequently mirror traditional gender norms; however, they are occasionally challenged by portrayals of women who negotiate, resist, or transcend these constraints. In Gadis Kretek (2023), the depiction of female characters aligns closely with Van Zoonen’s theoretical framework. Conversely, in Kill Boksoon (2023), although certain traditional representations remain, the protagonist challenges and subverts numerous gendered expectations. These portrayals indicate that media not only reflect societal inequalities but also possess the capacity to question and reformulate them. This research contributes to broader discussions on the role of media in shaping gender narratives, illustrating how even within conventional structures, opportunities for resistance, reinterpretation, and change exist.