Social Perception For The Activation Of Sports For The Visually Impaired Individuals: Focusing On Big Data Analysis Of Korean Media

Abstract

This study evaluated societal perceptions regarding the promotion and development of sports for visually impaired individuals in South Kore a. Utilizing BIGKinds, a news big data analysis platform provided by the Korea Press Foundation, this study conducted a longitudinal analys is spanning from 2014 to 2023. This study focused on identifying and examining keyword patterns and trends associated with the term 'visua lly impaired' to elucidate shifts in media discourse and public interest. As a result, this study confirmed that 1,573 articles had been written in the last decade on sports for the visually impaired individuals in Kore an media big data, with interest in these sports appearing mainly in goalball, boccia, and tandem cycling. Specifically, the number of article
s on sports for the visually impaired individuals increased from 179 in 2014, decreased due to COVID-19, and then increased again to 249 in 2023. Trends indicate sustained media attention but reflect changing societal interests and pandemic impacts. The order of visually impaired i ndividuals sports disciplines frequently covered by the Korean media is a goalbal l, boccia, and tandem cycle that highlight inclusivity, challenging stereotypes and social barriers for visually impaired individuals.