J.K. Rowling Doubles Down on Anti-Trans Stance: "Makeup Doesn't Change Biological Sex"

Author J.K. Rowling, best known for the Harry Potter series, has once again made it clear that she stands by her previous position that transgender women are not women.

By publicly reaffirming her stance prioritizing biological sex, Rowling has sparked another fierce debate online.

On the 27th local time, Rowling posted a lengthy message on her X account, stating that she still holds the views she expressed in an essay on gender identity written six years ago.

In her 2020 essay, Rowling expressed empathy for the discrimination and violence faced by transgender people while strongly criticizing a gender recognition reform bill promoted by the Scottish government.

She argued that allowing individuals to change their legal gender simply by identifying as women could threaten the safety of women-only spaces such as public restrooms and changing rooms.

In her latest post, however, she used even more direct language.

Rowling argued that the sex of being a woman cannot be put on and taken off like clothing, and that wearing makeup or a dress does not change one's biological sex.

While she respects the freedom of individuals to live as their preferred gender and call themselves whatever they choose, she emphasized that no one has the right to demand that others change their language or beliefs to match those convictions.

Rowling stated that her remarks have previously subjected her to thousands of threats involving murder, sexual assault, and torture, arguing that her freedom of expression must be protected.

The post immediately drew intense online debate.

Supporters argued that biological sex and gender identity must be kept separate, and that personal beliefs should not be forced onto others.

Critics, on the other hand, pushed back, arguing that Rowling's remarks could reinforce prejudice and discrimination against transgender people.

Counterarguments were also raised that the concept of womanhood encompasses social and cultural dimensions, not just biological ones.

Having stood at the center of the debate surrounding gender identity and women's rights over the past several years, Rowling's public reiteration of her stance has reignited the broader controversy over LGBTQ+ rights.

(Reported by Kim Minjeong | Video by Kim Na-on | Graphics by Yang Hye-min | Produced by SBS Digital News)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.