Unveiling the dynamics of HIV transmission among young homosexual and bisexual men in Korea

Abstract

Background: Despite the relatively low prevalence of HIV/AIDS in Korea, the incidence of HIV is steadily increasing, centering on same-sex sexual contact among men in their 20s and 30s. However, in Korean society, where acceptance of homosexuality is low, LGBTQ + research is lacking and there is little empirical data on HIV transmission. This study explored the context in which anal intercourse occurs among male sexual minorities in Korea. Methods: Data were collected by conducting a web survey targeting paid members of Korea’s largest homosexuality portal site (n = 941). The dependent variable was whether anal intercourse was preferred, and the major independent variables were health behavior, health status, and sexual behavioral characteristics. Results: Those who reported that their gender identity was homosexual tended to prefer anal sex more than those who reported that they were bisexual (Chi-square = 5.165, p