Media Portrayals of Protestant Christian Churches in South Korea

• In Event: ICA Plenary Interactive Paper/Poster Session and Reception
  In Interactive Paper Session: Public Relations Interactive Poster Session

Abstract

This study explored how media describe and frame the Protestant churches in South Korea. By conducting content analysis, the author analyzed the issue, tone, and other features and what frames were adopted to describe issue about churches. The results showed that most media depicted Protestant churches in South Korea in a negative way. Especially, when news stories were about mega churches, the tone of the stories became more negative. In regards to framing, the results showed that most media seemed to be more interested in what churches and minister are doing and in what is wrong with churches rather than their doctrines or beliefs. This study will contribute to expand the realm of public relations area to the various fields such as religious organizations.

Author

• Se Na Lim, University of Alabama