The 'Boiru' Misogyny Controversy
Original Korean title
보이루 여성혐오 논란
The Boiru misogyny controversy was a backlash claiming, without basis, that YouTuber BoGyeom's greeting 'Boiru' was a misogynistic term.
Originated around 2018Last updated: August 4, 2026
What does it mean?
YouTuber BoGyeom coined the greeting 'Boiru' by blending his own nickname with 'hairu' (a casual 'hi'), but starting in early 2018 some online communities pushed a forced reinterpretation of the word as a vulgar, misogynistic phrase and branded BoGyeom a misogynist. Critics pointed out that no controversy arose when other broadcasters used the same greeting, and courts later ruled in BoGyeom's favor.
Where did it start?
Controversy over YouTuber BoGyeom's greeting 'Boiru' (2018).
How is it used?
Mention only when explaining how the controversy unfolded; the greeting itself is neutral.
By context
- On public social media
- Context matters
- At work
- Context matters
- With family
- Context matters
- With friends
- Generally safe to use
What should I be careful about?
A sensitive case tangled up with gender conflict, so explain the facts carefully.