Generation MZ: From ‘Self-Mockery’ to ‘Positivity’
I. Introduction
Korean Generation Z has never experienced a period of economic prosperity and is unlikely to see such a time in the future. In 2024, the total fertility rate is expected to be 0.68, raising concerns about population decline and decreasing economic growth.
The disappearance of Gongchae recruitment systems (the public recruitment system in South Korea involving seasonal mass hiring) has exacerbated employment difficulties, and the perception of a ‘lifetime job’ has faded. The depletion of the national pension system further increases anxiety about the future, leaving little expectation of support from the government. Concerns about the future remain unabated.
II. Generational Approaches to ‘Anxiety’
1. Millennial Generation's Acceptance of Anxiety
The Millennial Generation in South Korea tends to accept anxiety in a self-mocking manner. They believed that success was defined by following societal norms, such as attending a prestigious university, securing a recognized job, and establishing a stable family. However, despite their hard work, they faced the collapse of these expectations.
(1) Self-Mocking Terms of Millennial Generation
- #헬조선 (Hell Joseon): A term that humorously describes South Korea as a hellish place where efforts are futile.
- #이생망 (iseang-mang): A phrase indicating that this life is a failure.
- #수저론 (Spoon Theory): A self-deprecating expression suggesting that class is determined more by parental wealth than personal effort.
(2) Trends Reflecting This Anxiety
This anxiety has led to various trends:
- #YOLO: An attitude that emphasizes living life to the fullest, as in "You Only Live Once."
- #탕진잼 (Spending Fun): A tendency to find enjoyment in frivolous spending.
- #FLEX: A trend characterized by the bold purchase of expensive items.
2. Generation Z's Acceptance of Anxiety
Generation Z experiences similar anxieties but has grown up in a different environment. With the rise of individual media like YouTube and advancements in AI, they have access to diverse opportunities for success beyond reliance on large corporations. This shift has broadened their choices, but it has also introduced new anxieties.
(1) Characteristics of Their Anxiety
The anxiety of Generation Z stems from the pressure to choose the best option among many. Unlike the Millennial Generation, whose anxiety was related to not meeting success standards, Generation Z feels the burden of deciding what is best in a situation with no clear answers.
(2) Transition to Positive Thinking
Generation Z strives to accept the anxieties of their time positively, aiming to maintain a stable present while acknowledging the absence of expectations for economic prosperity.
III. New Terms and Trends
1. Popular Terms
Generation Z has created new terms emphasizing positive thinking:
- #원영적사고 (Wonyoung Thought): Describing a transcendental form of positivity that goes beyond typical positive thinking, named after the idol Jang Wonyoung.
e.g. "Having difficult situations means that greater happiness is coming in the future, right?" - #중꺾마 (Unyielding Spirit): Emphasizing perseverance, popularized during the League of Legends World Championship.
e.g. "What matters is an unyielding heart."
2. Ongoing Trends
The lifestyles of Generation Z reflect the following trends:
- #갓생 (Godsang): Emphasizing small daily achievements and living diligently.
e.g. 7 Morning Routines You Can Start Tomorrow - #낭만 (Nangman): Seeking a sense of romance in life, moving away from extreme efficiency.
e.g. Going on a spontaneous trip without any preparation.
IV. Conclusion
Generation Z is finding new ways to cultivate a positive life amidst anxiety. They focus on the present while embracing small efforts toward a better future, creating trends based on small happiness and achievements.
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