A Study on Educational Strategies to Enhance Multicultural Sensitivity Using Korean Comedy Programs

This study explores strategies to enhance multicultural sensitivity using Korean comedy programs. In contemporary society, multicultural sensitivity is an essential competency for fostering mutual respect and social integration. In Korea, where the transition to a multicultural society is rapidly progressing, it has emerged as a critical educational agenda. This study selected the Korean comedy program Nitong’s Human Theater as its analytical focus, transcribed six episodes, and categorized stereotypes based on multicultural situations and interactions among characters. The analysis identified five prominent stereotypes related to appearance, behavior and personality, self-esteem, cultural understanding, and language abilities, which were found to potentially hinder viewers’ development of multicultural sensitivity. In response, this study proposed educational approaches such as critical viewing, role-playing, and alternative narrative creation. These activities were discussed as effective strategies for critically reflecting on stereotypes, fostering multicultural perspectives, and promoting attitudes of respect toward other cultures. The findings demonstrate that comedy programs, beyond their entertainment value, hold significant potential as tools for multicultural sensitivity education. This study anticipates that the integration of comedy programs into educational practices will contribute to fostering mutual respect and harmony in multicultural societies.