America
is an ever-egocentric nation. Things seem to find their way to discussion of
our politically polarized super-nation. In my conversations with
Korean individuals the topic is one rarely discussed. It seems that Korea is a
nation apt to avoid any form of dependence or stylistic appropriation (real or
fantasized) related to the United States. Koreans are a wholly nationalistic
society with no less of a drive towards westernization than I had expected to
see.
That
being said, I have encountered a variety of individuals from other
nationalities within UIP at the University of Ulsan who are quick to comment or
ask about American generalizations or cultural phenomena. The individuals I
have encountered most interested in America/American culture have been German
students. One particular student has taken a lot of time to ask me about my experience
and about food culture in America, like portioning sizes costs of beverages. It
is surprising how food can create cultural common ground.
My
roommate, Conner Peta is a Canadian from Lethbridge, Alberta majoring in
comparative politics and international relations, has quite an interest in
current events and upcoming presidential races. On one occasion we discussed
the “confederate” flag in the south and how there were even individuals in
Alberta who were waving “confederate” flags in support of southerners. I was
both appalled, because of the racial and political implications attached to the
symbol, especially to be doubly misused by a province in a different country
over a thousand miles away. Another discussion with my roommate concerned the
infamous Donald Trump and his racist tirade against immigrants from Mexico and
Central America. He inquired about the political climate of race in different
regional locations within the United States. I must say the discussion of which
was quite a breath of fresh air coming from a more conservative location like
Arkansas.
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