Essay Contest Result
Image of Korea from the International Point of View
The general image of Korea worldwide is one that is extremely mundane, superficial, and in simple words, boring. Not only has Korea's international representation been the same since 20 years ago, there has been no major initiative to boost Korea's image by the ministry of foreign affairs. For over twenty years and counting, Korea has been internationally divided in three major categories: Korean-pop, North Korean relations, and traditional foods. However, after attending university here in Korea from living in Toronto, CA, for the past 18 years of my life, I have seen firsthand the true values and cultural beauty that Korea holds within its bosom.
Having lived in Canada my whole life, the representation of Korea, in my point of view, has been heavily based on Korean-pop. Whenever I go to a Korean restaurant, watch a show that portrays Korean culture, or watch videos online hashtagged "ILoveKorea", all I see is Korean-pop and handsome men caked in makeup dancing in front of a crowd of teenage girls going crazy. This portrayal is not only false– in its majority– it is a terrible representation of the demographic and the target market for Korean=pop. Having been living in Korea now for the past three semesters of my university life, I have seen firsthand how BlackPink or Twice has made grown men, grandmothers and grandfathers, and even military-serving young men go crazy and happy. Therefore, the first proposal I would recommend is to show the people of the world, whether Canada or beyond, that Korean-pop is a culture that is embraced by all demographics and people. Since the view of Korean-pop only features young girls, many people discriminate against the culture thinking it is meant only for teenage girls. However, with some cultural education and a larger representation of Korean-pop's reach and influence, the world can be more inclusive to K-pop and have a more welcoming and open mind. By taking steps to show the people of the world to not judge a big part of the Korean music industry, more people can be introduced to Korean music culture and have a more cohesive and engaging relationship overall.
Next, in viral memes, stereotypes, and everyday jokes, young people joke around the Korean war, North Korea's dictator, Kim Jung Un, and make wild and degrading remarks, which ultimately negatively portrays Korea. Although it may seem that by negatively joking about North Korea may enhance and further show the high qualities of South Korea, this is false. Having been compared to North Korea so often, people eventually only view Korea in their minds as that of just North Korea's counterpart and war opponent. However, the complexities with South Korea's relationship with North Korea, although complicated, is more civil and proactive than people actually know. In Canada, my friends do not know that you can actually tour the DMZ and view North Korea from a telescope. My friends think that the DMZ is a war-hardened area with barbed wire and soldiers holding rifles. In addition, people of the world barely know the fact that Korea has communications with North Korea and actually talk and keep in touch. Although the extent of this communication does not go past the basic stages, nonetheless, this fact is not well known. The Korean government, and more specifically, the ministry of foreign affairs, should take notice of this lack of education and knowledge. Once people are educated and taught the actualities of the two Korea's relationship, degrading jokes, foolish remarks, and the ignorance will stop, and real curiosity and knowledge can happen. By doing so, people's general image of Korea won't be one of trivial fighting with our neighbor, but that of civil and international respect and armistice. Social media and internet threads are more powerful and influential than ever before. The ministry of foreign affairs must recognize this early on and take steps to make videos on educating those ignorant on the true face of Korea. Rumors, jokes, and ignorant comments can ruin people, businesses, and even countries. Although the North Korean issue may seem small and a playful joke, its deep-rooted seeds can and will harm South Korea's view to the general public very soon. Therefore, my second proposal of advice would be to take heed of this problem before it snowballs, would be to set up educational sites, videos, and provide the worldwide public with general knowledge of the relations between that of South Korea and North Korea.
Nextly, the view of the general public that all Korea has to offer is Bibimbap, Japchae, and Gimbab and Tteokbokki, is ruining the general image and stereotyping Korea's food industry. Furthermore, not only does this set false stereotypes, it shadows the other amazing foods and cuisines that South Korea has to offer. By cutting Korea at its knees by representing 'Korean Food' with exactly Bibimbap, Japchae, and Gimbab and Tteokbokki, Korea is canceling cultural education that can reach millions more by showing the other 99% of Korean foods and delicacies. When I traveled to Busan and various parts of Seoul this past summer, I was introduced to so many different cuisines and styles of Korean cooking. For example, I never knew how advanced Italian cuisine has been elevated in Korea. I've even heard some people say that the pizza and pasta here in Korea is one of the best they've ever had in their entire life. In addition, some amazing local delicacies include dishes such as raw beef with pear, amazing hangover soups, Korean pancakes, snacks and even bugs! Therefore with all this amazing food and ingredients that Koreans use and eat on an everyday basis, it is a very poor and tourist scammy tactic to promote merely gimbab and tteokbokki. By introducing all these different foods, cultures, and fusions of dozens of cuisines, the Korean food industry can be an extreme powerhouse in bringing tourists to Korea to try Korean-Japanese food, Korean-Italian food, and Korea-Chinese food. When I walk around Koreatown in my home of Toronto, in too many instances, stores and pamphlets say, "Learn about Korea, eat kimchi and kimbap." Korean food and more importantly, Korea's relationship with other countries' food is one that is delicious and particular to Korea. By promoting amazing combinations, partnerships, and fusion with other countries, Korea can revolutionize the general and stereotypical view that Korean food means Gimbab and Tteokbokki.
In an era of media domination and advertisements that flood the internet in popups and sites, it is imperative that Korea does a stronger job in better representation and collaboration with artists and influencers– not just the ones in Korean music. In many posters online, advertisements, and books, the front page is usually portraying BTS, Twice, or BlackPink. By showing the mass general that their greatest asset and marketing tactic is portraying merely a few major music groups is very ineffective and damaging. First impressions are everything. Therefore, when a person who doesn't know much about Korea or Korean culture, stumbles upon a magazine or website that purely portrays just Korean-pop, that person may be discouraged to further explore and learn about Korea. So, it is imperative to showcase Korea in all its glory and form.
Some examples of the preceding sentence of glory and form would be Korea's amazing and deep history, diverse workforce/foreigner life, and amazing nature. Korea has an insanely rich history with especially China and Japan. Therefore, by setting up historical sites, making lectures, and showcasing the deep history, many history enthusiasts and people will be able to learn more about the history of Korea. Additionally, many people view Korea as a tourist stop on their Asia trip, however, the foreigner population is only growing in Korea, therefore, by showing the foreigner workforce, population, and life that is so prevalent all over Korea, it will entice more foreigners to visit Korea, find potential jobs, and possibly immigrate to Korea. We must show the foreign population and view the opportunities of life and a long-term stay in Korea– not just show it as a one-stop and go tourist place. This act is especially important as Korea's Korean population is on a steady and consistent decline. As Korea's population decreases, and as the economy looks to get worse, it is vital for Korea's survival to invest heavily on foreigners to come and move to Korea. Not only will inviting foreigners help the economy, it will show to the world and international stage that Korea is a country of vast diversity, cultures, and experience.
Next, Korea's nature and natural wonders are some amazing things that can rarely be seen outside of the country. By showcasing Korea's amazing wilderness, wildlife, and bodies of water, many people and the world will be able to see Korea for what it is as a whole– not just as a country that produces pop stars and delicious foods.
The power of media and proactive action can change an entire country in just a second. By actively working to portray Korea in its amazing glory of international relations, foreigner-friendly life, foods and cuisine fusion, and nature, Korea can transform their image for "K-pop" to one of diverse and true raw beauty. Korea's potential should not be shadowed by one minor aspect of Korean-pop– which currently dominates the world view and idea of Korea.
By following the initiatives set in this essay, I believe Korea can change its global view into one of true, diverse beauty and adventure waiting to unfold. For too long, has the ministry of foreign affairs been negligent in providing and showcasing more and doing more to express to the global stage the vast amount of beauty and potential of South Korea. I hope through this essay, Korea can finally be recognized globally for more than just its music and idols.
Korea is a tunnel that reveals more as it is more deeply explored. Let us showcase to the world what awaits them in the amazing country that is South Korea, one proactive step at a time.
Having lived in Canada my whole life, the representation of Korea, in my point of view, has been heavily based on Korean-pop. Whenever I go to a Korean restaurant, watch a show that portrays Korean culture, or watch videos online hashtagged "ILoveKorea", all I see is Korean-pop and handsome men caked in makeup dancing in front of a crowd of teenage girls going crazy. This portrayal is not only false– in its majority– it is a terrible representation of the demographic and the target market for Korean=pop. Having been living in Korea now for the past three semesters of my university life, I have seen firsthand how BlackPink or Twice has made grown men, grandmothers and grandfathers, and even military-serving young men go crazy and happy. Therefore, the first proposal I would recommend is to show the people of the world, whether Canada or beyond, that Korean-pop is a culture that is embraced by all demographics and people. Since the view of Korean-pop only features young girls, many people discriminate against the culture thinking it is meant only for teenage girls. However, with some cultural education and a larger representation of Korean-pop's reach and influence, the world can be more inclusive to K-pop and have a more welcoming and open mind. By taking steps to show the people of the world to not judge a big part of the Korean music industry, more people can be introduced to Korean music culture and have a more cohesive and engaging relationship overall.
Next, in viral memes, stereotypes, and everyday jokes, young people joke around the Korean war, North Korea's dictator, Kim Jung Un, and make wild and degrading remarks, which ultimately negatively portrays Korea. Although it may seem that by negatively joking about North Korea may enhance and further show the high qualities of South Korea, this is false. Having been compared to North Korea so often, people eventually only view Korea in their minds as that of just North Korea's counterpart and war opponent. However, the complexities with South Korea's relationship with North Korea, although complicated, is more civil and proactive than people actually know. In Canada, my friends do not know that you can actually tour the DMZ and view North Korea from a telescope. My friends think that the DMZ is a war-hardened area with barbed wire and soldiers holding rifles. In addition, people of the world barely know the fact that Korea has communications with North Korea and actually talk and keep in touch. Although the extent of this communication does not go past the basic stages, nonetheless, this fact is not well known. The Korean government, and more specifically, the ministry of foreign affairs, should take notice of this lack of education and knowledge. Once people are educated and taught the actualities of the two Korea's relationship, degrading jokes, foolish remarks, and the ignorance will stop, and real curiosity and knowledge can happen. By doing so, people's general image of Korea won't be one of trivial fighting with our neighbor, but that of civil and international respect and armistice. Social media and internet threads are more powerful and influential than ever before. The ministry of foreign affairs must recognize this early on and take steps to make videos on educating those ignorant on the true face of Korea. Rumors, jokes, and ignorant comments can ruin people, businesses, and even countries. Although the North Korean issue may seem small and a playful joke, its deep-rooted seeds can and will harm South Korea's view to the general public very soon. Therefore, my second proposal of advice would be to take heed of this problem before it snowballs, would be to set up educational sites, videos, and provide the worldwide public with general knowledge of the relations between that of South Korea and North Korea.
Nextly, the view of the general public that all Korea has to offer is Bibimbap, Japchae, and Gimbab and Tteokbokki, is ruining the general image and stereotyping Korea's food industry. Furthermore, not only does this set false stereotypes, it shadows the other amazing foods and cuisines that South Korea has to offer. By cutting Korea at its knees by representing 'Korean Food' with exactly Bibimbap, Japchae, and Gimbab and Tteokbokki, Korea is canceling cultural education that can reach millions more by showing the other 99% of Korean foods and delicacies. When I traveled to Busan and various parts of Seoul this past summer, I was introduced to so many different cuisines and styles of Korean cooking. For example, I never knew how advanced Italian cuisine has been elevated in Korea. I've even heard some people say that the pizza and pasta here in Korea is one of the best they've ever had in their entire life. In addition, some amazing local delicacies include dishes such as raw beef with pear, amazing hangover soups, Korean pancakes, snacks and even bugs! Therefore with all this amazing food and ingredients that Koreans use and eat on an everyday basis, it is a very poor and tourist scammy tactic to promote merely gimbab and tteokbokki. By introducing all these different foods, cultures, and fusions of dozens of cuisines, the Korean food industry can be an extreme powerhouse in bringing tourists to Korea to try Korean-Japanese food, Korean-Italian food, and Korea-Chinese food. When I walk around Koreatown in my home of Toronto, in too many instances, stores and pamphlets say, "Learn about Korea, eat kimchi and kimbap." Korean food and more importantly, Korea's relationship with other countries' food is one that is delicious and particular to Korea. By promoting amazing combinations, partnerships, and fusion with other countries, Korea can revolutionize the general and stereotypical view that Korean food means Gimbab and Tteokbokki.
In an era of media domination and advertisements that flood the internet in popups and sites, it is imperative that Korea does a stronger job in better representation and collaboration with artists and influencers– not just the ones in Korean music. In many posters online, advertisements, and books, the front page is usually portraying BTS, Twice, or BlackPink. By showing the mass general that their greatest asset and marketing tactic is portraying merely a few major music groups is very ineffective and damaging. First impressions are everything. Therefore, when a person who doesn't know much about Korea or Korean culture, stumbles upon a magazine or website that purely portrays just Korean-pop, that person may be discouraged to further explore and learn about Korea. So, it is imperative to showcase Korea in all its glory and form.
Some examples of the preceding sentence of glory and form would be Korea's amazing and deep history, diverse workforce/foreigner life, and amazing nature. Korea has an insanely rich history with especially China and Japan. Therefore, by setting up historical sites, making lectures, and showcasing the deep history, many history enthusiasts and people will be able to learn more about the history of Korea. Additionally, many people view Korea as a tourist stop on their Asia trip, however, the foreigner population is only growing in Korea, therefore, by showing the foreigner workforce, population, and life that is so prevalent all over Korea, it will entice more foreigners to visit Korea, find potential jobs, and possibly immigrate to Korea. We must show the foreign population and view the opportunities of life and a long-term stay in Korea– not just show it as a one-stop and go tourist place. This act is especially important as Korea's Korean population is on a steady and consistent decline. As Korea's population decreases, and as the economy looks to get worse, it is vital for Korea's survival to invest heavily on foreigners to come and move to Korea. Not only will inviting foreigners help the economy, it will show to the world and international stage that Korea is a country of vast diversity, cultures, and experience.
Next, Korea's nature and natural wonders are some amazing things that can rarely be seen outside of the country. By showcasing Korea's amazing wilderness, wildlife, and bodies of water, many people and the world will be able to see Korea for what it is as a whole– not just as a country that produces pop stars and delicious foods.
The power of media and proactive action can change an entire country in just a second. By actively working to portray Korea in its amazing glory of international relations, foreigner-friendly life, foods and cuisine fusion, and nature, Korea can transform their image for "K-pop" to one of diverse and true raw beauty. Korea's potential should not be shadowed by one minor aspect of Korean-pop– which currently dominates the world view and idea of Korea.
By following the initiatives set in this essay, I believe Korea can change its global view into one of true, diverse beauty and adventure waiting to unfold. For too long, has the ministry of foreign affairs been negligent in providing and showcasing more and doing more to express to the global stage the vast amount of beauty and potential of South Korea. I hope through this essay, Korea can finally be recognized globally for more than just its music and idols.
Korea is a tunnel that reveals more as it is more deeply explored. Let us showcase to the world what awaits them in the amazing country that is South Korea, one proactive step at a time.
[Excellence Prize]
Juhyuk Josh Kim
(Country of Activity : Canada)
Juhyuk Josh Kim
(Country of Activity : Canada)
