SDLC 105 Learning Journal #4

[Sharon Shin (신현경)]

I thought that the presentations in class were very interesting. I liked Dalila's presentation about the culture of “oo-ree” (us) in Korean because it’s a concept that I forget is not universal. Growing up in a Korean family, I was used to hearing pronouns that expressed an inclusive group such as “oo-ree.” Learning about this concept made me realize how my American side and Korean side clash in this respect. It’s difficult growing up with clashing cultures, one being group-oriented and the other being individual-oriented. I also liked Arnanto’s presentation on the prevalence of plastic surgery in Korea. Getting plastic surgery is an idea I’ve become used to due to Korean tv shows, music, culture, etc. However, I realized how this is a concept that is really not normal. It made me think about how the idea of beauty could possibly be influenced by individuals wanting to fit into a group (“oo-ree” culture). I understand the reasons why Koreans are getting plastic surgery, but I do not understand why these reasons can’t be resolved in a more emotionally stable manner.