Online Games as a Medium of Cultural Communication:
Sociotechnical Transformation in Context
Invited Guest Lecture by Florence Chee
Thursday, 8 September at 15:00-16:00 in J1650
Abstract:
What are the motivations of everyday users to play games? Why has online gaming taken off in
Korea, especially? This study explores such current ramifications of Korea’s transition to and
existence as a Network Society with a special focus on the creation of a domestic/global games
industry as an economic linchpin. The rapid emergence of the global games industry as a legitimate
and respected business in the everyday consciousness of Koreans has presented greater career
possibilities along with an increased sense of mobility for prospective workers than more traditional
professions. Insights discussed here were derived from a series of ethnographic stays in Korea from
2004 to 2010. Methods included participant observation in and around sites of inquiry with respect
to the gaming industry, along with interviews with private and public sector workers. This inquiry will
contribute to the broader research dialogue of information and communication technologies (ICTs)
in global development contexts by linking the popular culture aspects of online games in Korea to a
nuanced understanding of the policy factors and cultural climate through which a prominent gaming
culture has emerged.
Bio:
Florence Chee investigates the sociocultural contexts of technology engagement and experience.
She has designed and conducted ethnographic fieldwork studies on how and why people play
games, which include sites in Asia, Latin America, Europe, and the Middle East. Her work can be
found in Games and Culture: A Journal of Interactive Media, Popular Communication, and in the
book Gaming Cultures in Asia-Pacific, from Routledge. At Simon Fraser University Vancouver,
Canada, she is completing her PhD dissertation concerning online games as a medium of cultural
communication. Journey with her on Twitter @cheeflo
http://florencechee.blogspot.com
For more details regarding the guest lecture please contact Veronica Sundstedt at:
[email protected]