Institutionalized Hegemonic Masculinity and Rape by United States Army Personnel in South Korea: A Perspective on Military Subculture

The aims of this study are threefold: (1) to illustrate an institutionalization process of hegemonic masculinity, (2) to show how this process can be applied to rape incidents in South Korea, and (3) to suggest what needs to be done in the future. Based on previous studies of hegemonic masculinity, this study first sets the stage by illustrating how the isomorphism with hegemonic masculinity is achieved and maintained through culturalization and institutionalization among male soldiers. Based on this theoretical framework, this study shows limitations in the traditional approach to military crime, and then applies the current framework to explain higher rate of rape incidents committed by United States Army personnel stationed in South Korea. Finally, this study suggests what needs to be done in terms of empirical investigation of military rape in different countries. This study concludes that the institutionalized hegemonic masculinity and the reproduction of masculine organizations are possible major contributing factors to the higher rate of rape incidents.