Session 8b - 1/23/10 - Jung-Kim - Korea since 1945

I now have mixed feelings behind the politics concerning the Korean War--as a child, I was taught to revere America because they were protecting us from the Northern Red. I remember doing bomb-drills at 11pm every night: every household had to turn off their lights and listen to the sirens and wait until it was over. I had conversations with my mom and I remember being told that the reason for doing such drills was so that we practice protecting ourselves in case we are attacked by the North. In school, North Korea was vilified and negatively presented to all of us and I didn't question anything since there were no alternative perspectives. And when I found out that I was immigrating to US, I was overjoyed because I was going to the buddy-nation of Korea.

Now through the lecture, and having studied aspects of the Korean War through lectures/readings, I'm realizing that my views about North Korea, the war had been limiting in perspective. It is sad to think that in the 21st century, Korea still remains divided and many families are prevented from reuniting with their loved ones. Moreover, having spoken to many South Koreans, many express not wanting the US occupation that presently exist today.[Edit by="seun on Jan 26, 3:39:27 PM"][/Edit]
[Edit by="seun on Jan 26, 3:40:13 PM"][/Edit]

Someone in class mentioned about the famine situation in North Korea and the professor shared that the population is in better shape. However, I know a couple of friends in Korea who are working on behalf of non-profit organizations to send relief to North Korea. It's hard to disseminate what is valid and invalid information when it comes to the North Korea situation.

Another topic of curiosity is the reunification of families--I know that during the Sunshine Policy Era, there was a big push toward having families reunited and implementing policies that will enable more visiting rights of families. The situation seems more tenuous, nowadays, and I've read that efforts to reignite this effort is forthcoming.

I am thankful for the clarification that Jung-Kim gave regarding the
role of Korean women and the view of Koreans regarding reunification with the North.

Since most Westerners do not know about Korean culture (for some
it appears to be an insular and unapproachable), we are usually left with stereotypes from
movies, or advertisements of Asian women as being docile.

Fortunately, when one steps outside of damaging stereotypes, one discovers
the heart and soul of the Korean culture.

I will say of Korea what I have said about Japan:
it took longer for them to develop democratically, and economically,
yet they have surpassed the US in technology, and in math and science education.

Both countries have one common thread: the government was able to convince the populace
as a whole to unite to build their own economy, and the people themselves
eventually united to democratize their country.

Hopefully you have figured out that to 'respond' to a particular blog entry, all you need do is hit 'respond' to that person's entry.
As for elementary lessons, a very simple, yet 'entertaining' lesson might be the use of chopsticks. Most (I think) Asian countries use wooden chopsticks. When I was in Korea a few years ago, all we were offered was metal chopsticks (MUCH more difficult to maneuver). When I asked why the difference I was told that wood was scarce in Korea, hence the use of 'washable', therefore, 'reusable' metal ones.
Just a thought.

I just want to say that I am absolutely impressed by the significance of Korea culture in our contemporary world. Professor Jung Kim shared with us important true facts, cultural believes, traditions, and values. One aspect that really called my attention was formatily, a cultural value that covers social etiquette, greetings, etc. that give lots of space for misunderstanding. Thanks, Professor Kim for all your contributions to the China Seminar.

I too, am intrigues about the importance of Chrisitianity in the Korean culture, and from what I have seen among my students, a true committment and belief in Christianity that they are living day in day out. I too, got no sense of Chrisitianity being even an option when I visited Japan.

"the debate over foreign English teachers is symbolic of a social shift taking place in a nation that has long prided itself on its racial purity and singular culture" south korean anaylsts say....la times 1/31010
I would never had read this article with the same interest if I had not heard Jung-Kim sharing her Korea expertise with us.
The Vietnam brides came to mind instantly, but Jung-Kim's presentation helped to crystallize the similarities, yet wide differences between the S. Korea's govt. and what our democracy is here in the U.S.