K-DRAMAS E O IMAGINÁRIO DA MASCULINIDADE: Estudo sobre a percepção do masculino a partir dos personagens dos dramas coreanos

Resumo (EN)

This dissertation investigates the influence of K-Dramas in the imaginary of masculinity among Brazilian viewers, analyzing how these South Korean productions reconfigure cultural patterns and dialogue with local gender expectations. Based on concepts of the imaginary, collective archetypes and unconscious, the study demonstrates that K-Dramas not only entertain but also influence cultural and emotional values, providing male representations that balance strength, sensitivity and empathy. The research adopts a mixed approach, combining quantitative and qualitative methods to examine the reception of K-Dramas in Brazil. Data collection was carried out through an online survey, which gathered 1,097 responses, of which 939 were women. The results reveal that characters like Ri Jeong-hyeok (Landing in Love) and Vincenzo Cassano (Vincenzo) incorporate universal archetypes as the hero and the lover, but adapt them to contemporary expectations of sensitive and collaborative masculinity. This representation contrasts with the traditional hegemonic masculinity, predominantly in Brazilian culture, which values strength and virility. The dissertation also addressed the popularization of K-Dramas in Brazil and its relationship with the influence of Hallyu (Korean wave), highlighting the role of streaming platforms and social networks in the dissemination of these productions. A research shows that the Brazilian audience values aspects such as romance, engaging narrative and construction of male characters that challenge traditional stereotypes. However, the idealization of these protagonists can generate unreal expectations about relationships and masculinity, reinforcing media patterns that do not always reflect reality. Finally, the study concludes that K-Dramas play a significant role in the formation of imaginaries and in the redefinition of gender roles in Brazil. By promoting a more emotionally accessible and collaborative masculinity, these productions are protected for debates on identity and gender relations. The dissertation suggests that future research will deepen the impact of these narratives on different demographic groups, as well as the interaction between the public and these cultural representations.