A Korean in America

Paper Summary:

This paper compares and contrasts Korean and American cultures as experienced by the Korean writer. The author feels that if, born in the United States, perhaps he would perceive himself differently. The paper discusses many cultural and psychological elements such as marriage, family, child rearing, language, holidays and the conflict between tradition and modernization.

From the Paper:

"In most Asian countries, tradition and modernization coexist. I am caught between two cultures in the same way my native Korea is caught between the old ways and the new. Just as traditions endure in Korea, traditional Korean customs continue to influence me. I think of myself as being first Korean and then an American because my identity was formed at a young age. I was raised by a traditional Korean family and was close with my grandparents. Even after exposure to and assimilation in American culture, I still feel predominantly Korean. My role in peer groups is the same: I feel Korean whether I am with Asian, Caucasian, or mixed crowds."

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