[이슈인사이드] 자폐스펙트럼 작가가 본 드라마 우영우...실제 현실은? / YTN

Summary

In this insightful interview, columnist Jang Ji-yong discusses the popular drama *Strange Lawyer Woo Young-woo*, which highlights the experiences of a character with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Jang shares his own personal struggles with autism, societal perceptions, and the challenges of finding employment, while also evaluating the drama’s accurate portrayal of ASD. He stresses the need for greater understanding, support, and policy changes, particularly in the areas of job opportunities for people with disabilities. His reflections urge the audience to consider the diversity within the autism spectrum and the importance of societal acceptance.

Takeaways

• 😀 The drama 'Strange Lawyer Woo Young Woo' has gained significant popularity, with a buzz around the 'Woo Young Woo syndrome.'
• 😀 The guest, writer Jang Ji Yong, shared that he was diagnosed with autism at the age of 16 and is currently working as a columnist while also dealing with challenges in his personal and professional life.
• 😀 Writer Jang Ji Yong relates to the main character Woo Young Woo, especially in terms of navigating challenges in daily life, such as ordering food and managing household tasks.
• 😀 Jang Ji Yong discusses the portrayal of autism in previous media, noting that many depictions are either overly sensationalized or show characters with extreme abilities, unlike the nuanced portrayal of Woo Young Woo.
• 😀 The use of proper terminology when discussing autism is emphasized, with a preference for terms like 'autism spectrum' over outdated or stigmatizing terms.
• 😀 Jang Ji Yong expressed concerns about the initial use of terms like 'Asperger syndrome' in early stages of the drama, but recognizes the importance of using accurate and respectful language.
• 😀 The drama portrays the struggles of autistic individuals in society, presenting a more realistic depiction of the challenges they face compared to previous works.
• 😀 The portrayal of Woo Young Woo as a lawyer and her ability to excel in her profession challenges stereotypes about the capabilities of people with autism.
• 😀 Jang Ji Yong also shares his personal struggles in the job market, highlighting the challenges of discrimination and limited opportunities for autistic individuals in the workplace.
• 😀 Jang Ji Yong advocates for more support for autistic individuals, including better job opportunities and government policies that assist in their independence and integration into society.

Q & A

What is the main theme of the drama 'Strange Lawyer Woo Young Woo'?

The drama focuses on a lawyer with autism spectrum disorder, highlighting the challenges she faces while showcasing her remarkable abilities and the social issues surrounding people with autism.

How does the writer, Jang Ji-Yong, relate personally to the content of the drama?

Jang Ji-Yong shares a personal connection to the drama as he himself has autism spectrum disorder. He discusses how some of the situations depicted in the show reflect his own experiences, like ordering food online and the struggles of daily life.

What is Jang Ji-Yong’s perspective on the portrayal of autism in other media compared to 'Strange Lawyer Woo Young Woo'?

Jang Ji-Yong points out that while previous portrayals of autism often depicted either extreme dependency or superhuman abilities, 'Strange Lawyer Woo Young Woo' offers a more nuanced representation of an individual who, despite her challenges, shows both vulnerability and exceptional skills.

What concerns did Jang Ji-Yong have during the initial stages of filming the drama?

He was concerned about the use of outdated or stigmatizing terms such as 'autism' and 'Asperger's syndrome' instead of more inclusive and accurate language like 'autism spectrum disorder' or 'autistic individuals'.

How does Jang Ji-Yong suggest people should approach the language used when talking about autism?

Jang Ji-Yong emphasizes the importance of using proper, non-stigmatizing terms like 'autistic individuals' or 'people with autism spectrum disorder' to avoid perpetuating harmful stereotypes.

In what ways does Jang Ji-Yong feel the drama portrays the real-life difficulties faced by individuals with autism?

Jang Ji-Yong believes the drama accurately portrays the struggles faced by autistic individuals in society, such as social isolation, misunderstanding, and the challenges of navigating a world that often feels unaccommodating.

What personal challenges does Jang Ji-Yong face in his daily life due to his autism?

Jang Ji-Yong describes facing difficulties in both his professional and personal life, such as discrimination in the job market, where his disability often prevents him from being considered for many roles. He also faces challenges in dealing with societal barriers.

How does Jang Ji-Yong feel about the portrayal of autism in the public eye, and what message does he want to convey?

Jang Ji-Yong stresses that people with autism are not a homogeneous group. He wants the public to understand that autistic individuals can have diverse experiences and abilities, and the portrayal in the media should reflect this complexity.

What does Jang Ji-Yong see as the most significant issue for autistic individuals in society today?

Jang Ji-Yong identifies employment as the biggest issue for autistic individuals, emphasizing that more inclusive job opportunities and workplace accommodations are needed to help them thrive.

What does Jang Ji-Yong believe the government should do to better support individuals with autism?

He advocates for better government policies that focus on creating more job opportunities and providing support to ensure autistic individuals can achieve independence and lead fulfilling lives.