Week15--Compare the English, Korean, and Chinese Wikipedia homepages----HE ZIXUAN

 1. Abstract

The "News" column on the front page of Wikipedia (usually "Current Events" or "News Updates") is the gateway for many people to learn about international events. However, different language versions of Wikipedia have different ways of presenting "news", content selection, and even tone. This article compares the "News" columns on the front pages of English, Korean, and Chinese Wikipedia, and explores the differences in culture, values, and information selection mechanisms behind their languages.

2. Interesting points

Differences in content selection

The "News" column of English Wikipedia covers a wide range of global events, emphasizing neutrality and international perspective. For example, it not only reports on the US election, but also pays attention to African coups and natural disasters in Southeast Asia.

Korean Wikipedia focuses more on domestic news, such as Korean political dynamics, social controversies or major news related to K-POP, and sometimes involves international events related to South Korea.

The news column of Chinese Wikipedia emphasizes the combination of the Chinese-speaking world and international focus. For example, most of the events are in mainland China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Macau, but it also reports on the Ukrainian War and the Nobel Prize.

3. Discussion

If you could only read the news section of Wikipedia in one language every day, how would it affect your understanding of the world?

Comments

  1. 권현지June 12, 2025 at 7:20 PM

    I think this could lead to a reduction in the use of Wikipedia's news sections. When it is not their own language, people are expected to not use it because they have difficulty understanding the content of news. We need to ensure different languages, as each person has different languages and different understanding. Understanding can be improved and more helpful when you encounter news through the language you speak.

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