SDLC 110: Cultural Post #7

[Jinhoo Bong]

Family plays a big role in the Korean culture. As I may have mentioned before, Korea is not an individualistic culture, but rather a group-oriented culture. Often members represent their family name, and others will judge the family based on that one member's personality, behavior, and etc. Stating to be from a certain family line creates a pre-set generalization of the person's identity. In this sense, Korea can be seen as a little pre-modern as the world moves towards an individualistic society, but I think this aspect of their culture sets them apart and creates a different, possibly more bonded environment. Although it gives room for certain judgments, and has a negative connotation, I think this aspect also has its upsides. Being part of a family brings great care, and a very intimate relationship with each family member. Even if individually, two family members do not get along, at the end of the day, because they are family, they will do whatever for their family. I believe this insight comes from having been born in Korea, but growing up in America, because in America, I'm being taught to fend for myself, and all about individuality, and becoming my own. But when I go to Korea to visit my grandparents, or my dad's side of the family, I am no longer just Jinhoo, but rather Jinhoo Bong. And this difference brings about loving grandparents, and a close-knit family line. I meet with family members who I either have never met before, never knew existed, or met when I was very young and therefore they essentially don't exist. But each encounter has always been welcoming and inviting because we are family. Maybe America is like that as well, and I just haven't had an opportunity to experience it firsthand, but from my personal experiences, I enjoy Korea's take on family, and what it brings about.