Why do Koreans Take on Black Music?

Dear Korean,When I listen to Korean radio stations I hear 90's R&B imitations, right down to the 'oohs' and 'aahs'. For a nation of people that look down on blacks, why adopt the music and dance?AndreaThere are certain dumb questions that get asked in high frequency, and this has been one of them.First of all, let's make sure to state what the Korean has stated numerous times before:  racism...

Korean Last Names Series: Jeon-Ui Lee

Dear Korean, I moved to America at the age of 9, and have retained most of my Korean fluency (although it's only about Elementary school level). However, I lost most of the history that I learned during school. One of the things I miss the most is the history of my last name. Unfortunately, no one in my immediate family can give a detailed answer. All my extended family is in Korea and I do not...

"Gook" is a bad word

Dear Korean,Lately, the guys at my school have started calling my Korean friends and I "gooks". At first we just thought it was an immature thing that they had made up, but it turns out that when my older cousin was in middle school, her math teacher called her and all the other Asians the exact same thing. Is it supposed to be a racist word or just another name to call Koreans/Asians?Sincerely, Confused...

V is for Vendetta?

Dear Korean,Why do Koreans throw up the peace sign whenever they take a picture? SparkleYou mean, like this? (source)And like this?(source)And like this?(source)Oops, maybe not like the last one.At any rate, it is true that when taking a picture, Koreans very commonly throw up the "V" sign. But why?Truth is, Koreans themselves...

Ask a Korean! Wiki: What to Tell Your Family?

Dear Korean, Please comes to know this stranger from the East Coast, U.S. henceforth as the Blankard. The Blankard is a recently certified ESL teacher. The Blankard comes from a family that greatly disapproves of the Blankard's choice to pursue South Korea to teach, for they fear for their Blankard, even if the Blankard himself feels apprehension only about 'leaving the nest,' as they say. ...

Gone Fishin'

The Korean will be on vacation for about two weeks, dear readers. Please be understanding if there is no new post, or your question is answered even more slowly than usual.Got a question or a comment for the Korean? Email away at askakorean@gmail.c...

Boundaries, Man, Boundaries

Dear Korean,I am an American woman but have been living in Korea for almost five years now. There has been something irking me lately. Even though I'm fluent enough to have general conversations in Korean, many people in my social circle seem to regard me as an English tool. My Korean boyfriend, who is currently changing jobs, has lately asked me endless English questions and wants me to help him...