Timothy Gitzen, an Assistant Professor of Anthropology at Wake Forest University, delves into the complexities of queer identity in South Korea amidst national security concerns. He explores how queer Koreans are perceived as viral threats in a context of ongoing militarization. Gitzen discusses mundane acts of resistance against stigma and the impact of COVID-19 on the queer community. He highlights the intertwining of nationalism and security, as well as the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ activists in reclaiming their narratives against societal and governmental pressures.

Timothy Gitzen, an Assistant Professor of Anthropology at Wake Forest University, explores the complex intersection of queer identity and national security in South Korea. He reveals how queer Koreans are perceived as viral threats within a society shaped by North Korean tensions. Gitzen discusses the normalization of security practices in everyday life and the unique challenges faced by the queer community during the COVID pandemic, highlighting their activism against dehumanizing narratives. His insights draw from rich fieldwork in Seoul, showcasing the resilience of queer identities.

In this engaging discussion, Timothy Gitzen, an Assistant Professor of Anthropology at Wake Forest University, unpacks the themes of his new book, exploring how queer Koreans are perceived as threats within the context of national security and public health. He shares striking insights about the normalization of security routines in everyday life. Gitzen also reflects on the intersection of queer activism and military life in South Korea, addressing how societal fears and discrimination shape the experiences of queer individuals amid the ongoing influence of the pandemic.