they basically touched on it. in the west what's considered attractive is very individual. there's basically a type for everyone. in Asia, it's the one you're everyone goes for. That's why oftentimes Asian guys feel it's the unattractive Asian girls that date non Asian guys and non Asian guys think they're the shit compared to Asian guys. the popular Asian girls date Asian guys cause they're firmly in control
+Paul Idson You would think that, but in actuality many qualities that non-asians think are attractive which asians would put into the "plain jane" category.
I really hope Yi reads this, but she is absolutely beautiful! Inside and out, she is so radiant and refreshing, she expressed all the values that I stand for so eloquently. There's something about Yi that is so charming and I could only wish to be half as intelligent and kind as she is.
+Wu Yifan Yi is a beautiful woman. I love her eyes, her hair and she looks like she has a nice bust. She's also talkative and energetic which I really like. Bi-lingual would be icing on the cake. I like it when people know more than one language. I only wish I did.
I think in the West we don't ask about money as much because dating isn't necessarily going to end in marriage. But in the East, the whole point of dating is to find someone to marry. In that case you want to make sure your partner has good finances.
Such a positive and empowering message, as always! I just wanna add a thought tho. I feel bad whenever Americans bash on asian guys (those kpop looking guys) for not being "manly" enough, compared to American guys who are more athletic and muscular. Girls are encouraged to break out of the traditionally feminine image but when it comes to guys, why do we not do the same? I feel like American beauty standard for guys is as narrow as Asian standard. They are just defined differently. I know it's not the point of the video but just wanted to bring it up.
I love Yi! She's such a beauty, I'm glad that she has reached an epiphany in her life where she can live peacefully, so happy and glad for her! Does she have a channel? She could help a lot of young ladies who are struggling with self esteem issues. Do include her more in your channel. P.S. Love the videos guys.
Girl you are beautiful! I'm glad you stayed in natural state. I think that's fine if someone wants to do plastic surgery, but no one should ever be pressured to do so. Your jawline is to die for, love it!
They are all three very nice looking young people. I've more then reached an age where women start getting face-lifts etc, I haven't and I won't because to me I have the face I have earned in well over 6 decades and I also think plastic surgery is to repair either a deformity or damage done by illness or accident.
+Justin naaz Agreed, just like when I say to my mom "How do I make people not hate me" and she says "be yourself!!" A few days later... "Okay, they actually hate me. Why's that?" Mom: -proceeds to go into a rant and point out all of my flaws
I grew up whit a South Korean friend since 4th grade... She was perfect. She didn't like her eyes, and the shape of her face, for example, but for me that was what makes her pretty. Because she was on those days the only oasis of a different kind of beauty in my country, (Mexico, haha yep very different) she was different even for Asian standards of beauty , and that was awesome, so now, I'm really in love whit all the little things that makes everyone different. Today I don't talk whit her a lot, but I really hope she never get a plastic surgery or anything.(now that she return to Korea) Because that eyes she considered small or not ideal, where the ones that remind me of an excellent friendship and an extraordinary woman.
All three of you are good-looking. To the girl in the video: WHAT on earth would anyone suggest changing about your pretty face? The shape of your face is lovely.
I personally find people who are of mixed race really beautiful :) They get the best of both worlds ::::))))) But I totally agree with Yi, being healthy is more important.
Just to clarify did she mean health is beauty or health is good, don't put yourself at risk through surgery? Once you get married you promise in sickness and in health. Health can fail at any time.
+Nathaniel Mills I don't think she was talking about your actual health. What I mean is I don't think she meant that if one is sick or gets sick easily that one is unattractive, but rather that one that has a healthy look (e.g. healthy weight, hair, skin) is what the standard for beauty should be rather than a specific look.
when they say white they really mean pale. a lot of white people get the wrong impression (despite the fact they're really pink) so I cringe whenever I hear "white" to describe Asian beauty standards
The lengths Chinese ppl go to show that they don't do manual labor is incredible... untanned skin, and the growing out the fcking pinkie nail for males. I have family that came to America and got into tanning. "Bitch yellow gold is better than white gold" LOL
I really liked this. However, the ideal that Adele's size was ok is not true at all. She has been under a lot of pressure to lose weight. At the 2016 Grammy awards Adele showed up 50 pounds lighter because she took up a vegetarian diet. They want her to get down to Katy Perry's size. Meaning, the only places America finds it ok to be bigger is the breast, butt, thighs, and hips. Every woman in the industry bigger than they want is under pressure to lose weight. One reason why it is harder in America is the food industries putting 'fillers' into food. The body cannot break down the sand, bird feathers, or yoga matte that is being put into many American bread products. I know a Japanese man that gained 30 pounds living here and he did not change his diet at all. The only difference was the food was American brands, but once he went back to Japan all the weight was lost. This story is true for Europeans coming to America as well. The ideal beauty in the US is Beyonce.
True! All those areas hold a large portion of body fat keep as a reserve for though times if you are in childbearing age. They get naturally small as you lose body fat... just take a peek at athletes and runway models...
I've been watching kdrama and listening to kpop for few years and I think my beauty standards changed a lotI used to think kpop guys were really feminine,girlish and too skinny Now my ideal body types are taemin,G dragon or ten Of course I like guys with muscle and stuff but I started to appreciate skinny guys so much In addiction to this I love abs and skinny people usually have it so it's a plus
I used to be that way too. Although, I was never really into buff guys, I don't usually like overly pretty boys either. Intro into kpop a few years back, and I thought that the ideal kpop look was too feminine, (and slightly jealous, because I would want to emulate their style on myself). But, now, I appreciate more the flower boys and pretty boys of East Asia, and I'd have to admit that G-Dragon has over taken my bias list.
khmerchef exactly,at the beginning I was really into 2pm They're really manly and masculine for a kpop Group now I appreciate flower boys even more than masculine guys
Harold Edward Styles yeah,I think that's a good thing, people could accept all kinds of beauty standard and that doesn't hurt much. If I say, oh, I only like this, and others are bad, maybe u just haven't learnt to appreciate.
The big question to asian people is: How many normal people can actually fit into those categories? Being skinny "can be" controllable but not being fair, tall or rich. I mean at least 70-80% or more of the asian population will be left out of those categories. Is essentially like saying "I'll marry only someone who looks like a model"...only 10% (I guess) of the western population looks like a model. We are "all aware" (most of the time) that it's a very narrowed ideal of beauty. Aspiring to an ideal beauty and thinking that is the reality are two very different thing. Btw i'm just criticizing the general way of thinking not the culture!
+TheFlowMind Being "skinny" can only go so far. I have a wider skeletal frame (thanks maternal genes!) so I could literally be anorexic and I couldn't fit in anything smaller than a size 4 or 6 because my hips, rib cage, and shoulders are too broad. I can't shave down my skeleton!
but this is the same anywhere else. the standards of beauty differs from culture to culture and generally are the 10% no matter what the requirements are. the rest are just less attractive and other factors come into things. tis life
Yep sure but here in Europe and in USA it seems that there's a lot of people against this “unreal idea body" and there is a lot of variation on "what is beautiful". My perception of what asian's think is that: 1) they are quite unified in what they define as "beautiful", 2) they introduce the variable of being rich that is not controllable as the one of having fair skin and 3) they are too rigid in filling the boxes. But this is obviously only my perception.
+wolfpackleader666 - Yep. Yi looks a lot like someone I had a big crush on in HS over 30 years ago. Whatever happened to "beauty is in the eye of the beholder"?
I have a female Korean friend and she once told me that I don't know how hot she is, because I don't know about Korean beauty standards. She was like "yeah, you think I'm good looking Asian, but you're white, so you don't know just how hot I really am by Korean standards". :P
Yeah I noticed that most Asians have the same body type, that's a good thing. While western society have a "curvy" or "obese" body type which is bad, obese people have a lower life expectancy. I have to admit, I gain a little weight these past years, I better lay off the potatoes chips : \
+Viet Lee I think you mean US not western society atleast in Sweden almost everyone you meet are quite fit . The problem with us though in regards to obesity, it all begins in your food chains and grocery stores because if we'd compare low fat yoghurt in us vs regular yoghurt in Sweden, you'd notice that the american one consist of way more sugar than the regular yoghurt from Sweden.
+Robert Tang Yeah I agree, there's USA and Europe have very different standards. Well actually, USA might as well have closer standards to Latin America than the rest of the western world.
+CrystalizeSirenity But that doesn't make it okay for him to retaliate by labelling all curvy people as obese. This: ( encrypted-tbn1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRIas4rCuKcUqvc9aWb3RX9d4MsXeUc40enQMD-4Pl8z-USHPsmLG5DeiekkQ ) is not obese.
Note on the "tall woman/short man" phenomenon that you describe seeing in the West: I've seen on YuTube, and heard in RL, tall women complaining about the difficulty of getting guys to date them, including the even taller men that they'd actually prefer to date (note 5' 10" Khloe Kardashian's fondness for basketball players). In many cases, the most available men are those with something of a fetish for taller women, which includes a lot of short guys. There are lots of vids, elsewhere on YT, that go into this phenomenon in detail.
+Nick Hentschel So true. I talked to a guy for months online. We skyped and everything. So we decided to go on a double date. He was a little shorter than me. I think 2 or 3 inches. The first thing he said was "you are tall," I didn't think about it much. I thought we hit it off. I got along well with his friends. After the date he got more and more distant. Wouldn't return my calls or messages. It really hurt my feelings so I asked what happened. He said it is because I am taller than him. :( smh. Like that actually says anything about my personality.
***** I have had those too. Some of them say that to make you feel bad about yourself. So it would be easier to get in your pants. The stereotypes of beauty and gender in this world need to be ignored. They are unrealistic.
Thanks for sharing guys. As someone who has been in the social sciences for years, and was among the first few to start, or develop, some of the early International, Multicultural, Indian, Indian American and Asian American Student organizations and their activities...I have explored many of these issues in conferences, seminars and workshops. Let me clarify a few things for you: 1) In my generation in India thinness was not that important...though being not-fat and being slim (which is different than being thin) was. 2) This obsession with "fair women" is very colonial and universal...though "fair" does not necessarily mean White. Many Indian men, and other South Asian men, including very dark men, want "fair" women...not necessarily White women. East Asia seems to be more obsessed with White, than just fair. 3) Many Indians do have Caucasian features. Most Indians can easily pass for Caucasians except for their dark skin. They do have sharper features, larger eyes, and some have longer faces. If my Anglo husband was a bit darker he could easily pass for a Punjabi, Kashmiri or a South Indian Brahmin. Most Indians could also easily pass for Latinos, Italians and Westerners if it is not for their darker skin. 4) Kindly remember lot of Bollywood is dominated by North Indian and/or Muslim actors. 5) When I was in Singapore I found a growing number of Chinese women dating and marrying tall, handsome but dark and not so rich, Indian Tamil men. They did not care about the darkness of the guys, they found them sexy. Of course they were all educated, well employed and middle class....not rich though. 6) I agree that Indian men prefer Caucasian features...but that is changing with women from the Northeast ( States like Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, etc.) dating and marrying men from other States. India, unlike China, Korea and Japan, is much more diverse racially, ethnically and linguistically. Indians are less provincial on certain matters compared to a more homogeneous society like China, Korea, etc. 7) Koreans women are big into plastic surgeries. Japanese less so. It would be good to explore these subtle differences. Like your show....and keep the discussions coming.
Very true-- I'm a 13 year old Filipino (now live in the US but lived there till I was around 9-10), and my mum never wanted me to go out into the sun for fear of my skin getting darker. When I was born, she used this baby soap that had "bleaching properties" to whiten my skin, and I have an extremely flat nose bridge as most Filipinos do, and my mum has always mentioned me getting plastic surgery as an adult. My nose has become one of my biggest insecurities, and that's the only reason I am wearing glasses, not contacts like I wanted. I do admit that getting plastic surgery holds definite allure to me, but I would feel guilty for changing how my face looks and even the thought of it makes me think of myself as extremely vain. But I have realized over the past few years that beauty is a very fluid concept-- there's always going to be someone out there in this world who finds you beautiful and attractive, while there is always going to be someone who doesn't find you gorgeous and may think that you're ugly. Edit: My mum is a very kind and is the nicest person I know. it's just that she was heavily influenced by Asian standards that her parents and friends set on her.
I am just laughing about the height thing.. I am 5'5 and I am considered "tall" where I live.. and my husband (my bf before) is just the same height as I am.. he is considered short.. we are just the same height.. and it's so hard that I can't wear heels that much if I'm with him.. but we learned to love with it haha!!!
Actually you guys are spot on. But if you consider that only 30 years ago Chinese were a poor people in China, it's not so surprising that the desire for money which is trained by the parents is still part of the culture. I can say the same about Australia as you do about the US. That desperate need for money just isn't there. There are plenty of opportunities to make enough money to live a good "enough" life and that's been like that for a long time so. I would expect that part of Chinese culture to change over the next 50 years.
+lythsian true, back then it was for security reasons cause they didn't want their children to live a life of poverty like they did. Now they've just taken it way to far.
14:02 the moment she said, I fell in love. her self satisfaction, happy what she has, and the independent choice of staying the way she is, I found incredibly beautiful.
You're so pretty!!! I'm not just saying that, I've been watching a lot of you guys videos recently, and I've thought I can see why Dan likes her! Which is very shallow of me, and you're clearly lovely too, which is the main thing, but for this conversation, that really surprised me, that you grew up feeling like that. But I guess that's the whole point of this video, that beauty standards are different in different places. I'm in UK.
This notion that there's a paradise country where women are indifferent to a man having "good provider" credentials is pure mythology .Btw, there's nothing dishonorable about a young woman wanting to marry well. That was commonly understood for about 7,000 years of recorded history as just being practical and realistic.
Paradiseinc : OK, but if he's evasive about his achievements and goals, that too is a warning sign. Old World girls, including the E. Asians that are so often scrutinized, merely want assurance that a guy has the same goals and aspirations that she has. They want a partner who will work hard to get somewhere in life. That's not evil, it's just a sober, realistic assessment of how the world works. I notice Asians tend to retain a "folk wisdom" sense that they need to go-for-broke while they're young enough and strong enough, more so than westerners.
When they said America, that was perfect. I never get to hear other people say America like a western American. Makes me feel good. When I see people say Asian things and they are not Asian it comes off rude, but I like that they way Chen Dynasty said this it was not disrespectful.
I have never commented on someones video before and I am new to watching your videos. I wanted to say that my whole life I have always been made fun of because I am over weight. I use to be under weight just to fit the mold the U.S. magazines put on me. which made me malnourished and anorexic. once I started eating and became a healthy weight i wad considered fat. Now that my health is in jeopardy I am again in struggle with my weight.After watching this and seeing that it isnt just in america that there is "fat shaming" was surprising. Yi (hope i spelt it right) what you say near the end about your child hood in asia helped me to realize that I dont need to conform and fit in with society. I am my own woman and have a lot of beauty to show. this is the most self esteem building video I have ever seen. so this is a long post to just say thank you for being an amazing role model.😁
Good for you Yi!! You guys help make it easier for self-conscious people like myself to be able to love ourselves just the way we are! The important thing for your body is that its healthy, otherwise we should be able to celebrate all of the different shapes and sizes between bodies! It's really a cool thing that we are all different
This was so informative and true, i live in asia (im african) and every time i go to a beauty store/makeup blah blah its just White White White, thats it, they sell 2 things, pimple removers and facial whiteners, but i dont really mind it, do you.
I really like Japan and Korea, and I feel interested in China; however, I feel that they judge people too much. Beauty is in the eyes of the beholder, you can't narrow it, you're ruining the game....
too be honest, just based on look wise,generally i think korean judge people 's look no less but at least at the same level of harshness compare to chinese. I don't know much about the Japanese but they seem to be accept more of a diversty than Korean and Chinese.
+TaeJuNne Kim Completly agree with you. Japan is not as blunt as Korea or China, and their ideal is not that fixed. I think Japan is changing faster than the other two countries, which is great, but there are several issues in Japan though, not as harsh as in K and C, but there they are...
Thanks so much for this! I don't like to stereotype and put people in boxes either, but I really enjoyed listening to your discussion. For me, health, and physical/mental appearances of grace with power has always been the most attractive trait for both men and women. I popped onto this sight because I JUST discovered the K-Pop group Sistar when searching for exercise/dance routines. I was blown away by the main singer, Hyolyn (or Hyorin)- with her complexion, body curves, gorgeous face and her husky voice. (I loved finding a Korean singer that sang lower tones- reminds me of Mariah Carey's '90s Summery sounds). I was also shocked by all of the comments. What Hollywood would call a "gorgeous tan" was criticized as "so dark" or "too dark." I know that racism is still alive in America and needs to be dealt with, but I was shocked to see these comments. Isn't lighter skin more of abnormality in the East?
According to data from multiple dating sites asian women have the highest response rate for women and white men have the highest response rate for men. Thus, the public considers Asian women to be the most attractive women and white men to be the most attractive men.
The eyebrow ideals are what stood out to me - in the US the latest trend is "on fleek" arched and well manicured, while the asian ideal according to this video is straight eyebrows.
On that topic with asian beauty standard.. when i was like 14 years old, basically the age when you are questioning your own body the most, my mother told me that i was really pretty overall and i thought aaawww that's so nice of you. and the next moment she was like if you just had a double eyelid and she started recommending me a clinic for plastic surgery. and ever since then i got some problems with my eyeshape now and then. #asianparents
Wonderful video! I just wish we could all get to a place where the beauty on the inside is what was strived for. You are all beautiful inside & out! ♡ ♡ ♡
I have so much admiration for you Yi and your speech about self-acceptance. ♥ If you love yourself, then there's no reason you should do plastic surgery for others. Plastic surgery is a personal choice in the first place. Also, you are gorgeous and unique.
I have to say, the Asian standard of beauty is very, very twisted...... They are setting their children to an impossible standard which only one in a million could reach, and then force all the other children who does not reach that standard through all sorts of unnatural ways to change themselves to fit them into that tiny, tiny box, and to live up to that standard.
+LOVE4everSher, My parents always tell me how lenient they are compared to some other people they know. One person they knew, their child had to make above a 100--and I'm like that's impossible in my school, only so many teachers give extra credit. Another person I think actually cut off their child's limb.
If you look at individual preferences, it always varies, but there is obviously a general (or some few) standard(s) in (maybe each individual) western countries.
this video is so honest and the girl is so assertive and positive which itself is a very attractive personality trait . I'm not east asian but generally asian parents often consider long term effects while western culture is very different with the average person dating or being with numerous partners , In Asian culture i think a single partner is considered ideal so obviously parents try to assure he or she is perfect for their child . Hope that makes sense :)
Wth... since we are talking about 'outer beauty', however shallow this may be... Yii is so damn beautiful. Curse these stupid beauty standards...such rubbish... Mike and Dan are also very handsome !! Love the three of you, you always make my day!
For me, it's not just having the individual features I would find attractive, but how well put together. There are even features that I would not usually consider attractive, actually go better with some women I find attractive.
Thanks for the amazing video! As an Asian woman (Chinese to be specific) in my twenties I really think that most young people nowadays don't value wealth as much as our parents do, or as much as the media says we do. We date people because we're interested in their personalities, common interests, etc., and the reason why the so-called golden standards '白富美' and '高富帅' are so well-known really comes down to the need of 'A standard' of beauty, if you know what I mean... Also, there is a certain level of negativity when people talk about the golden standards here. However, having a pale or fair skin is quite important, judging by the Asian standard. But then again it really depends on the person.
+Naomi Green BTW, really don't think that being tall is important, but I do admit that a lot of people care about it. And when some of my friends know that my bf is as tall as I am, I do get the "is that okay" looks. But until then, I didn't realize that height was supposed to be a thing when I fell for him, and still don't think so. Anyways, I can only speak for my generation that being rich is not important when it comes to a relationship. It could be a bit of a problem if the two of you can't even make a living and are not planning to make an effort together, when the relationship gets serious.
I only watch random episodes (good job by the way) but this is the first time I notice the background music. is it a new thing? and this could be just me, but it took my focus away from the video and what was talked about. so, maybe something for you to consider? :) but at the end, music or not, your videos are awesome. 👍
My parents actually hate that I'm pale skinned, because they view it as a sign of laziness. but I was never able to tan. I'll get sunburn but I won't tan. They even had me spray tanned for prom which made me look dirty and turned my skin orange.
Ok, number one: EVERYONE on that couch is beautiful/hansom. Seriously, if any of you aren't married and want to be, it's a complete mystery to me as to why you would be having any trouble at all. Number two (my take): I come from a small town in the south and I am thankful for it in many ways because it's not so much about a standardized image put forward by the media, as much as it is "who you belong to" or who your family is. We are expected to first look at how much a family has put into their community and what their connections are when deciding if someone is worth our time in the dating world. Members of charitable, kind families who are in good standing in their communities have no trouble marrying well regardless of physical appearance in most cases. Members of lawless, rude, or greedy families tend to have to look a little longer. Three: I am a firm believer that all loving parents want what is best for their children; however, we have to remember something about parents. They are human and just as prone to mistakes and bad judgement calls as children are. They just have a few years on us and want what is best. If given the choice between your child staying exactly as they were born and your child having to go through a painful surgery to change their appearance, I'm pretty sure they would chose to never even recommend the surgery. The only reason why a loving parent would do something like that is if they had become convinced it would make their child's life exponentially easier. It rings true in my own community and culture in regards to higher education. All the young ladies and gentlemen around here know they are expected (and are pushed) to go to college and obtain a degree. Why? It makes life easier in the long run even though universities are often hours away, it is expensive and most of us come away with thousands in student loans that we struggle years to repay. Our parents are still convinced it will lead us to a better life even though some of us may be happiest running a farm or working on cars or having a career working with the elderly and children. My advice? Parents are wiser than we are, but just as error prone as we are. Find what works for you. Know yourself. Love yourself and who you are for every unique characteristic and flaw. Love everyone and show it. Even they can't argue with that. :-)
I have no idea if this goes for all native Europeans, but I'm personally just more attracted towards healthiness over a body size. Being healthy means you're neither overweight nor overly skinny, but somewhere in between, yet preferably closer to the latter. This is achieved of course by simply eating a conservative amount of food and performing physical exercises to match your diet. Male models have got this right for generations, being well trained and healthy looking. Female models have historically been too skinny, and now they're trying to make up for it by having overweight models as well. Is it really so difficult to have your average sized next door people, just going through a more healthy daily routine including both diet and practice, for models? Also, regarding the skin of people. We're usually looking at the healthiness and pureness of the skin, rather than the color of it. For women, we're also generally looking at the softness of the skin.
This video has been up on youtube for a while. It's a little bit late to say it now, but I really love it! Thanks a lot for sharing your thoughts about beauty and I really hope all Asians would think that way.
What's really weird is that, when Dan was saying how the media shapes people's definition of what they find attractive, it was the one thing I found myself disagreeing with (personally). For years and years, I've been seeing basically the same category of people slapped on posters and marketed, and I honestly grew so bored of that - especially living in a place where over 96% of the population are white - that my "type" seems to be anybody who DOESN'T look like the typical US beauty standard.
my list of attractive girls: attractive girls from any ethnicity. who are we kidding? there are proportionally the same number of attractive girls in every ethnic background. it all depends on what you, individually, find attractive
Mike looked sooooo tired in this video! Thank you Yi for the empowering message... You've got a really nice catch there, Dan ;) Keep up the good work, guys!
The "light skin" applies to Southeast Asians (and according to my black friends, black people) as well. I've heard in Thailand that girls are using methods to "whiten" their skin which is apparently a South Korean pop-culture influence. In the Philippines, most of the girls on TV and Film are mixed w/ a white race when most of the country is more tan.
I applaud your strength Yi to learn to like yourself rather than try to be something else. All of you are putting in my opinion what is a very healthy perspectives on appearance/self worth out there which so many people (especial young people) need. Why do you think east asia has such a singular notion of beauty?
I like this vid very much. I subscribed. You have very nice, down to earth, balanced and healthy opinions. I loved to hear. Especially the girl's opinion was interesting to me - I agree with everything and thank god you didn't do plastic surgery, you look great to me! You have very strong Chinese looks to me, but it's characteristic and nice. I don't think Europeans want everyone to look like them. It is others that want to look "western", and I don't know if it's exactly good. People are best looking, being the most beautiful version of themselves, the way they were made. I really like the point about health being beautiful - I agree with this so much - but could not voice it well before hearing this video. I am European, and keep in mind in Europe each country has a bit different standards of beauty. We are very diverse in Europe. Also we don't consider South America a "Western country". It's simply south america, latino culture. Maybe people think different in the US. It's interesting! And to end my entry - I really like your Chen vids. I'll be watching all the rest of them. Thanks! :) I'm a fan now!
The Chinese issue with being 'fat' is actually quite dangerous, I say this because I am Chinese and all my life I have was told that I am fat by every Chinese elder from my Mum to my parents' friends. I accepted that as fact and, because I am particularly thick skinned, I just got on with life. However, during my teens I actually put on a lot weight but because I have always been told that I was 'fat', it had no effect on me when people told me I was becoming fat/fatter, I just smiled and said I've always been fat. In retrospect, looking at photos of prior to puberty, I didn't start of fat but I did become fat. So because I became desensitized to that particular comment/observation from pretty much everyone, when it did matter - when it became an actually health warning - it have no effect. Funnily enough when I got really skinny, my elders kept asking me if I was ill. Which just goes to show, I just can't win!
Hey, you should do a video about interracial dating/marriage from the family's perspective. When I went to China this year, my relatives told me to marry at least an Asian guy, if not Chinese. When I told them I can't guarantee that, they all got mad at me!
I know this is an old video, but I found it so fascinating and enlightening. Growing up as an American I always assumed that western beauty standards must be the worst and most unrealistic. I thought other cultures must have more natural, traditional, and realistic views of beauty.
im a 172cm sophomore and im already considered as very tall, the guys around me are either shorter than me or just a little bit taller. Its hard to find taller guys in asia
You are all beautiful & handsome + Intelligent, open-minded & exceptional. Keep up the good work. I stumbled on your channel about 2-3 weeks ago & I love all your topics. We are of very different cultures. But our "challenges" of growing up in the West with parents of other cultures remain the same. Thanks gals & guys.
Chinese have different taste, I have small eyes and dark yellowish skin, but I was considered one of the most beautiful girl in my high school. Not sure if you guys were talking about the same China that I used to live or a China from another dimension or maybe a China from 20 years ago? You probably got most of your impression from your parents, but your parents that left China decades ago might can't represent other Chinese people well. I don't know much about Korean, but Japanese definitely have different taste, too.
well being indian i can attest to how indian culture is ingrained with fair skin being the standard of beauty. my mom's side of the family was lighter skinned than my father's side. my father is more dark skinned than my mother. my complexion is in between more of a natural tan but when i was a baby i was very fair skinned and my mother would tell me how relatives would compliment my mother on what a "pretty white baby" she had. the beauty and cosmetic industry in india has lots of creams and lotions for women to lighten their skin just like in other asian countries. unfortunately this has led to lots of ethnic and racial tensions amongst indians that is still part of the culture. this of course, is a holdover from a lot of european influence but indians vary in their appearance with many skin tones not just from the european influx but also due to many invasions over the centuries going back to alexander the great and the arayan invasion.
This is helpful as I'm starting to consider the dating scene in my late 30s....so late on this date train but this reminded me of my brother (who is 75% Cantonese and other stuff, like me) dating a Mexican Cantonese mixed girl. In San Francisco and Bay Area , the mixed ethnic groups get blurred. I wonder if that's how it's gotten with beauty. I agree though with you guys, finding those lasting qualities is what counts.
why would anyone want her to get plastic surgery? I personally think she is very beautiful. I'm glad she didn't get work done cuz she prob looks way better without it. it makes sad when people get surgery because their family pressures them.
Do Asian girls find western boys particularly attractive? I went to China over the summer and I was constantly having to take selfies with teenage girls most places I went because they thought I was really hot and stuff because I was white (I'm 14 btw) and 6 feet and 3 inches tall
Being A Fifth Koran. Korean Beauty Standards Shape The Way I Carry My Self. I Have A Darker Skin Tone, And I Spend About €3,270 Every Summer And Skin Lighters, And About €1,000 On Makeup.
hey guys, its been a while since you posted this video but wanted to comment anyway on this topic. In Nepal, our standards are quite different to china it seems. I can't speak for all of my country but from my big family, I can definitely say that looking Chinese is considered more beautiful. I guess it depends on who you look up to as a nation as being beautiful. To me and my family you guys would be considered handsome and beautiful. just bringing out a different perspective out there. but yea definitely fair skinned people are seen as more beautiful there too btw i love all of your channels.
You should do a video on the differences between "What Asians think an attractive Asian is" and "What Caucasians this an attractive Asian is".
I think that would be very interesting.
truuue!
+Peter John I agree
they basically touched on it. in the west what's considered attractive is very individual. there's basically a type for everyone. in Asia, it's the one you're everyone goes for. That's why oftentimes Asian guys feel it's the unattractive Asian girls that date non Asian guys and non Asian guys think they're the shit compared to Asian guys. the popular Asian girls date Asian guys cause they're firmly in control
+Paul Idson You would think that, but in actuality many qualities that non-asians think are attractive which asians would put into the "plain jane" category.
I really hope Yi reads this, but she is absolutely beautiful! Inside and out, she is so radiant and refreshing, she expressed all the values that I stand for so eloquently. There's something about Yi that is so charming and I could only wish to be half as intelligent and kind as she is.
I love your profile pic of Kris
kris is like the epitome of gao fu shuai
AYO WADDUP KREASE
+Wu Yifan Yi Fan = Fan of Yi, I think its destiny. :)
+Wu Yifan Yi is a beautiful woman. I love her eyes, her hair and she looks like she has a nice bust. She's also talkative and energetic which I really like. Bi-lingual would be icing on the cake. I like it when people know more than one language. I only wish I did.
I agree with her. As long as you are healthy, don't worry about your looks. We are all beautiful/handsome in our own unique ways.
I am not!
I think in the West we don't ask about money as much because dating isn't necessarily going to end in marriage. But in the East, the whole point of dating is to find someone to marry. In that case you want to make sure your partner has good finances.
Such a positive and empowering message, as always! I just wanna add a thought tho. I feel bad whenever Americans bash on asian guys (those kpop looking guys) for not being "manly" enough, compared to American guys who are more athletic and muscular. Girls are encouraged to break out of the traditionally feminine image but when it comes to guys, why do we not do the same? I feel like American beauty standard for guys is as narrow as Asian standard. They are just defined differently. I know it's not the point of the video but just wanted to bring it up.
I love Yi! She's such a beauty, I'm glad that she has reached an epiphany in her life where she can live peacefully, so happy and glad for her! Does she have a channel? She could help a lot of young ladies who are struggling with self esteem issues. Do include her more in your channel.
P.S. Love the videos guys.
Pale/light skin is also very desirable in South Asia
I heard they bleache their skin. Isn't that a healthhazard?
Girl you are beautiful! I'm glad you stayed in natural state. I think that's fine if someone wants to do plastic surgery, but no one should ever be pressured to do so. Your jawline is to die for, love it!
100% agree!
+NalaLana123 I also agree (:
They are all three very nice looking young people. I've more then reached an age where women start getting face-lifts etc, I haven't and I won't because to me I have the face I have earned in well over 6 decades and I also think plastic surgery is to repair either a deformity or damage done by illness or accident.
+Justin naaz Agreed, just like when I say to my mom "How do I make people not hate me" and she says "be yourself!!" A few days later... "Okay, they actually hate me. Why's that?"
Mom: -proceeds to go into a rant and point out all of my flaws
And Plastic sugary is useless cause you can't passed down to your children.
I grew up whit a South Korean friend since 4th grade... She was perfect. She didn't like her eyes, and the shape of her face, for example, but for me that was what makes her pretty. Because she was on those days the only oasis of a different kind of beauty in my country, (Mexico, haha yep very different) she was different even for Asian standards of beauty , and that was awesome, so now, I'm really in love whit all the little things that makes everyone different. Today I don't talk whit her a lot, but I really hope she never get a plastic surgery or anything.(now that she return to Korea) Because that eyes she considered small or not ideal, where the ones that remind me of an excellent friendship and an extraordinary woman.
All three of you are good-looking. To the girl in the video: WHAT on earth would anyone suggest changing about your pretty face? The shape of your face is lovely.
yeah. I texted a Korean girl for a few months. but when we spoke over the phone, she did not like my voice so she never spoke to me again
Nephi-O Dandy wtf
Where did you find that girl? Cause i want to make friends
Basically, Slenderman is the ideal person
I personally find people who are of mixed race really beautiful :) They get the best of both worlds ::::))))) But I totally agree with Yi, being healthy is more important.
Just to clarify did she mean health is beauty or health is good, don't put yourself at risk through surgery?
Once you get married you promise in sickness and in health. Health can fail at any time.
+Lily S this made me smile thanks!
+Nathaniel Mills I don't think she was talking about your actual health. What I mean is I don't think she meant that if one is sick or gets sick easily that one is unattractive, but rather that one that has a healthy look (e.g. healthy weight, hair, skin) is what the standard for beauty should be rather than a specific look.
i am mix northern chinese and southern...however u got southern chinese flat nose and northern small eyes..
As a mixed person i got the worst of the both feature. For example
-thin sparse eyebrows(asian)
-hairy everywhere else (mexican)😂😂
Hyolyn from Sistar is tan and beautiful!
YAS ♡♡
guy in blue shirt looks a bit like jackie chan xD
I thought It was only me.. Haha
Ever since Yi's earliest apppearances in OTGW videos I though she's one of the prettiest women I've ever seen!
+thevioletworld yi can be pretty when she wants to be. She has beautiful hair, pulling it back doesn't flatter her.
+Brian Olsen Tying her hair changes nothing really...
+thevioletworld i know right?
I agree.
It's okay, don't worry I will show you the world. :p
white rich beautiful, white rich and handsome.
oh typical chinese standards..
+imhellag don't forget the asterisks***
when they say white they really mean pale. a lot of white people get the wrong impression (despite the fact they're really pink) so I cringe whenever I hear "white" to describe Asian beauty standards
+ohdaUtube Sometimes the paleness reminds me of someone terminally ill.
+Peter John yeah the word pale in English has that negative connotation. I think the right word to use in this case is "fair skinned"
The lengths Chinese ppl go to show that they don't do manual labor is incredible... untanned skin, and the growing out the fcking pinkie nail for males.
I have family that came to America and got into tanning. "Bitch yellow gold is better than white gold" LOL
I really liked this. However, the ideal that Adele's size was ok is not true at all. She has been under a lot of pressure to lose weight. At the 2016 Grammy awards Adele showed up 50 pounds lighter because she took up a vegetarian diet. They want her to get down to Katy Perry's size. Meaning, the only places America finds it ok to be bigger is the breast, butt, thighs, and hips. Every woman in the industry bigger than they want is under pressure to lose weight. One reason why it is harder in America is the food industries putting 'fillers' into food. The body cannot break down the sand, bird feathers, or yoga matte that is being put into many American bread products. I know a Japanese man that gained 30 pounds living here and he did not change his diet at all. The only difference was the food was American brands, but once he went back to Japan all the weight was lost. This story is true for Europeans coming to America as well. The ideal beauty in the US is Beyonce.
The only way you are going to be skinny with a big behind, full thighs and large breasts is augmentation.
True! All those areas hold a large portion of body fat keep as a reserve for though times if you are in childbearing age. They get naturally small as you lose body fat... just take a peek at athletes and runway models...
Nicole snow
Yi, I really appreciate your input on this episode and I think what you said was great.
I've been watching kdrama and listening to kpop for few years and I think my beauty standards changed a lotI used to think kpop guys were really feminine,girlish and too skinny Now my ideal body types are taemin,G dragon or ten Of course I like guys with muscle and stuff but I started to appreciate skinny guys so much In addiction to this I love abs and skinny people usually have it so it's a plus
I used to be that way too. Although, I was never really into buff guys, I don't usually like overly pretty boys either. Intro into kpop a few years back, and I thought that the ideal kpop look was too feminine, (and slightly jealous, because I would want to emulate their style on myself). But, now, I appreciate more the flower boys and pretty boys of East Asia, and I'd have to admit that G-Dragon has over taken my bias list.
khmerchef Exa
khmerchef exactly,at the beginning I was really into 2pm
They're really manly and masculine for a kpop Group
now I appreciate flower boys even more than masculine guys
Harold Edward Styles yeah,I think that's a good thing, people could accept all kinds of beauty standard and that doesn't hurt much. If I say, oh, I only like this, and others are bad, maybe u just haven't learnt to appreciate.
The big question to asian people is: How many normal people can actually fit into those categories? Being skinny "can be" controllable but not being fair, tall or rich. I mean at least 70-80% or more of the asian population will be left out of those categories.
Is essentially like saying "I'll marry only someone who looks like a model"...only 10% (I guess) of the western population looks like a model. We are "all aware" (most of the time) that it's a very narrowed ideal of beauty. Aspiring to an ideal beauty and thinking that is the reality are two very different thing.
Btw i'm just criticizing the general way of thinking not the culture!
+TheFlowMind Yep. I don't really think beauty standards matter much if so few fit into that category.
+TheFlowMind Being "skinny" can only go so far. I have a wider skeletal frame (thanks maternal genes!) so I could literally be anorexic and I couldn't fit in anything smaller than a size 4 or 6 because my hips, rib cage, and shoulders are too broad. I can't shave down my skeleton!
+TheFlowMind of everyone in my extended family, only one person fits all the criteria, because she's not even Asian.
but this is the same anywhere else. the standards of beauty differs from culture to culture and generally are the 10% no matter what the requirements are. the rest are just less attractive and other factors come into things. tis life
Yep sure but here in Europe and in USA it seems that there's a lot of people against this “unreal idea body" and there is a lot of variation on "what is beautiful". My perception of what asian's think is that: 1) they are quite unified in what they define as "beautiful", 2) they introduce the variable of being rich that is not controllable as the one of having fair skin and 3) they are too rigid in filling the boxes. But this is obviously only my perception.
i dont know what some asians are thinking... this woman in this video is a goddess
+wolfpackleader666 ps is the guy in purple single ;)
+wolfpackleader666 O.O i was going to say: the Chen in purple saying the word 'curvacious' and how he moves his hands….
+wolfpackleader666 I think she's very graceful
+wolfpackleader666 - Yep. Yi looks a lot like someone I had a big crush on in HS over 30 years ago. Whatever happened to "beauty is in the eye of the beholder"?
youre trippin
I have a female Korean friend and she once told me that I don't know how hot she is, because I don't know about Korean beauty standards. She was like "yeah, you think I'm good looking Asian, but you're white, so you don't know just how hot I really am by Korean standards". :P
truth
Yeah I noticed that most Asians have the same body type, that's a good thing. While western society have a "curvy" or "obese" body type which is bad, obese people have a lower life expectancy.
I have to admit, I gain a little weight these past years, I better lay off the potatoes chips : \
+Viet Lee I think you mean US not western society atleast in Sweden almost everyone you meet are quite fit .
The problem with us though in regards to obesity, it all begins in your food chains and grocery stores because if we'd compare low fat yoghurt in us vs regular yoghurt in Sweden, you'd notice that the american one consist of way more sugar than the regular yoghurt from Sweden.
+Robert Tang Yeah I agree, there's USA and Europe have very different standards. Well actually, USA might as well have closer standards to Latin America than the rest of the western world.
+Viet Lee Curvy and obese are not the same.
+CrystalizeSirenity But that doesn't make it okay for him to retaliate by labelling all curvy people as obese. This: ( encrypted-tbn1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRIas4rCuKcUqvc9aWb3RX9d4MsXeUc40enQMD-4Pl8z-USHPsmLG5DeiekkQ ) is not obese.
It depends in South America, some places don't like darker skin.
Yeah, it's true
You mean most places...
The whole planet fwiw.
I love how Dan clarified the term "West".
As a Mexican I am happy to hear more Latin America stuff (partially) in Asian talk shows/videos.
The last time I checked, Latin America is in the western hemisphere
Note on the "tall woman/short man" phenomenon that you describe seeing in the West:
I've seen on YuTube, and heard in RL, tall women complaining about the difficulty of getting guys to date them, including the even taller men that they'd actually prefer to date (note 5' 10" Khloe Kardashian's fondness for basketball players). In many cases, the most available men are those with something of a fetish for taller women, which includes a lot of short guys.
There are lots of vids, elsewhere on YT, that go into this phenomenon in detail.
+Nick Hentschel So true. I talked to a guy for months online. We skyped and everything. So we decided to go on a double date. He was a little shorter than me. I think 2 or 3 inches. The first thing he said was "you are tall," I didn't think about it much. I thought we hit it off. I got along well with his friends. After the date he got more and more distant. Wouldn't return my calls or messages. It really hurt my feelings so I asked what happened. He said it is because I am taller than him. :( smh. Like that actually says anything about my personality.
Fitsum Abera Well, I'm 6'1", and anything within 2-3 inches of my own height, either way, is fine by me. So we ARE out there.
+Shannon C. Slap them.
***** I have had those too. Some of them say that to make you feel bad about yourself. So it would be easier to get in your pants. The stereotypes of beauty and gender in this world need to be ignored. They are unrealistic.
+Shannon C. Give 'em hell for me!
I love how honest and accepting you all are! 😊
Thank you sooooooooo much!! This video gave me so much confidence!
+Anisah Airhead you are still ugly
+Lance Edora lol
Thanks for sharing guys. As someone who has been in the social sciences for years, and was among the first few to start, or develop, some of the early International, Multicultural, Indian, Indian American and Asian American Student organizations and their activities...I have explored many of these issues in conferences, seminars and workshops. Let me clarify a few things for you: 1) In my generation in India thinness was not that important...though being not-fat and being slim (which is different than being thin) was. 2) This obsession with "fair women" is very colonial and universal...though "fair" does not necessarily mean White. Many Indian men, and other South Asian men, including very dark men, want "fair" women...not necessarily White women. East Asia seems to be more obsessed with White, than just fair. 3) Many Indians do have Caucasian features. Most Indians can easily pass for Caucasians except for their dark skin. They do have sharper features, larger eyes, and some have longer faces. If my Anglo husband was a bit darker he could easily pass for a Punjabi, Kashmiri or a South Indian Brahmin. Most Indians could also easily pass for Latinos, Italians and Westerners if it is not for their darker skin. 4) Kindly remember lot of Bollywood is dominated by North Indian and/or Muslim actors. 5) When I was in Singapore I found a growing number of Chinese women dating and marrying tall, handsome but dark and not so rich, Indian Tamil men. They did not care about the darkness of the guys, they found them sexy. Of course they were all educated, well employed and middle class....not rich though. 6) I agree that Indian men prefer Caucasian features...but that is changing with women from the Northeast ( States like Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, etc.) dating and marrying men from other States. India, unlike China, Korea and Japan, is much more diverse racially, ethnically and linguistically. Indians are less provincial on certain matters compared to a more homogeneous society like China, Korea, etc. 7) Koreans women are big into plastic surgeries. Japanese less so. It would be good to explore these subtle differences. Like your show....and keep the discussions coming.
Meera Srinivasan @
Very true-- I'm a 13 year old Filipino (now live in the US but lived there till I was around 9-10), and my mum never wanted me to go out into the sun for fear of my skin getting darker. When I was born, she used this baby soap that had "bleaching properties" to whiten my skin, and I have an extremely flat nose bridge as most Filipinos do, and my mum has always mentioned me getting plastic surgery as an adult. My nose has become one of my biggest insecurities, and that's the only reason I am wearing glasses, not contacts like I wanted. I do admit that getting plastic surgery holds definite allure to me, but I would feel guilty for changing how my face looks and even the thought of it makes me think of myself as extremely vain. But I have realized over the past few years that beauty is a very fluid concept-- there's always going to be someone out there in this world who finds you beautiful and attractive, while there is always going to be someone who doesn't find you gorgeous and may think that you're ugly. Edit: My mum is a very kind and is the nicest person I know. it's just that she was heavily influenced by Asian standards that her parents and friends set on her.
I am just laughing about the height thing.. I am 5'5 and I am considered "tall" where I live.. and my husband (my bf before) is just the same height as I am.. he is considered short.. we are just the same height.. and it's so hard that I can't wear heels that much if I'm with him.. but we learned to love with it haha!!!
Actually you guys are spot on. But if you consider that only 30 years ago Chinese were a poor people in China, it's not so surprising that the desire for money which is trained by the parents is still part of the culture. I can say the same about Australia as you do about the US. That desperate need for money just isn't there. There are plenty of opportunities to make enough money to live a good "enough" life and that's been like that for a long time so. I would expect that part of Chinese culture to change over the next 50 years.
+lythsian true, back then it was for security reasons cause they didn't want their children to live a life of poverty like they did. Now they've just taken it way to far.
14:02 the moment she said, I fell in love. her self satisfaction, happy what she has, and the independent choice of staying the way she is, I found incredibly beautiful.
You guys are great. Thanks for stepping out to talk about the sensitive topics. I can really relate.
10:45, heck, I've heard of BoA being described as curvy (read: can decide how much she wants to eat for herself).
You're so pretty!!! I'm not just saying that, I've been watching a lot of you guys videos recently, and I've thought I can see why Dan likes her! Which is very shallow of me, and you're clearly lovely too, which is the main thing, but for this conversation, that really surprised me, that you grew up feeling like that. But I guess that's the whole point of this video, that beauty standards are different in different places. I'm in UK.
Here in Finland if you mention paychecks or talk about too much money in the first date... Be prepared to be dumped...
You would here in the US as well, my Niece is 27 and she calls guys she runs into who brag about how money they have 'losers'.
It is very rude to refer to such a subject while dating in America as well.
Little Dikkins: when she's 37 she'll call them any way she can.
This notion that there's a paradise country where women are indifferent to a man having "good provider" credentials is pure mythology .Btw, there's nothing dishonorable about a young woman wanting to marry well. That was commonly understood for about 7,000 years of recorded history as just being practical and realistic.
Paradiseinc : OK, but if he's evasive about his achievements and goals, that too is a warning sign. Old World girls, including the E. Asians that are so often scrutinized, merely want assurance that a guy has the same goals and aspirations that she has. They want a partner who will work hard to get somewhere in life. That's not evil, it's just a sober, realistic assessment of how the world works. I notice Asians tend to retain a "folk wisdom" sense that they need to go-for-broke while they're young enough and strong enough, more so than westerners.
Such a wonderful video. Entertaining, positive and encouraging. You guys rock.
When they said America, that was perfect. I never get to hear other people say America like a western American. Makes me feel good. When I see people say Asian things and they are not Asian it comes off rude, but I like that they way Chen Dynasty said this it was not disrespectful.
I found your channel today and I love it! Thanks a lot! You made my night. :)
I have never commented on someones video before and I am new to watching your videos. I wanted to say that my whole life I have always been made fun of because I am over weight. I use to be under weight just to fit the mold the U.S. magazines put on me. which made me malnourished and anorexic. once I started eating and became a healthy weight i wad considered fat. Now that my health is in jeopardy I am again in struggle with my weight.After watching this and seeing that it isnt just in america that there is "fat shaming" was surprising. Yi (hope i spelt it right) what you say near the end about your child hood in asia helped me to realize that I dont need to conform and fit in with society. I am my own woman and have a lot of beauty to show. this is the most self esteem building video I have ever seen. so this is a long post to just say thank you for being an amazing role model.😁
The guy on the left said he wouldn't be considered attractive in Asia? I call bullshit on that.
To Yi
I think you're very beautiful by all standards.
You definitely do not need any surgery, you are perfect as you are Xxx
Great videos guys!
the UK is forever forgotten.
when it has the most largest kingdom. wrong grammar. but it really is. UK I mean
and america didn't even exist 700 years ago.
well UK invaded everywhere so now karma is a bitch
+lovelion2001 omg I LOVE your comment😂😂😂😂
Is that v fromBTS if soooooo........
KPOP FANS EVERYWHERE AND ARMY 😂
Good for you Yi!! You guys help make it easier for self-conscious people like myself to be able to love ourselves just the way we are! The important thing for your body is that its healthy, otherwise we should be able to celebrate all of the different shapes and sizes between bodies! It's really a cool thing that we are all different
I totally agree with these young people on a lot of things! They usually make more sense, than people who have more western-mindsets!
This was so informative and true, i live in asia (im african) and every time i go to a beauty store/makeup blah blah its just White White White, thats it, they sell 2 things, pimple removers and facial whiteners, but i dont really mind it, do you.
I really like Japan and Korea, and I feel interested in China; however, I feel that they judge people too much. Beauty is in the eyes of the beholder, you can't narrow it, you're ruining the game....
too be honest, just based on look wise,generally i think korean judge people 's look no less but at least at the same level of harshness compare to chinese. I don't know much about the Japanese but they seem to be accept more of a diversty than Korean and Chinese.
+TaeJuNne Kim Completly agree with you. Japan is not as blunt as Korea or China, and their ideal is not that fixed. I think Japan is changing faster than the other two countries, which is great, but there are several issues in Japan though, not as harsh as in K and C, but there they are...
You guys should do, Asian drama/series Vs Western Drama/series- Top 10 Asian Series!!
Thanks so much for this!
I don't like to stereotype and put people in boxes either, but I really enjoyed listening to your discussion. For me, health, and physical/mental appearances of grace with power has always been the most attractive trait for both men and women.
I popped onto this sight because I JUST discovered the K-Pop group Sistar when searching for exercise/dance routines. I was blown away by the main singer, Hyolyn (or Hyorin)- with her complexion, body curves, gorgeous face and her husky voice. (I loved finding a Korean singer that sang lower tones- reminds me of Mariah Carey's '90s Summery sounds).
I was also shocked by all of the comments. What Hollywood would call a "gorgeous tan" was criticized as "so dark" or "too dark." I know that racism is still alive in America and needs to be dealt with, but I was shocked to see these comments. Isn't lighter skin more of abnormality in the East?
No, in the East, most countries prefer pale skin over tan skin.
According to data from multiple dating sites asian women have the highest response rate for women and white men have the highest response rate for men. Thus, the public considers Asian women to be the most attractive women and white men to be the most attractive men.
The eyebrow ideals are what stood out to me - in the US the latest trend is "on fleek" arched and well manicured, while the asian ideal according to this video is straight eyebrows.
Good for you Yi. Much respect not caving into parental and peer pressure. You are perfect the way you are.
DAN AND YI ARE BOTH WEARING PURPLE!!! I SHIP THEM SO HARD IT ISNT EVEN REALISTIC!!! 😆😆😆
They're together lol
I always look forward to your videos!😊
On that topic with asian beauty standard.. when i was like 14 years old, basically the age when you are questioning your own body the most, my mother told me that i was really pretty overall and i thought aaawww that's so nice of you. and the next moment she was like if you just had a double eyelid and she started recommending me a clinic for plastic surgery. and ever since then i got some problems with my eyeshape now and then. #asianparents
Wonderful video! I just wish we could all get to a place where the beauty on the inside is what was strived for. You are all beautiful inside & out! ♡ ♡ ♡
the girl in the middle you are so beautiful i couldn't keep my eyes off you and im a girl and completely straight
I have so much admiration for you Yi and your speech about self-acceptance. ♥
If you love yourself, then there's no reason you should do plastic surgery for others. Plastic surgery is a personal choice in the first place.
Also, you are gorgeous and unique.
I have to say, the Asian standard of beauty is very, very twisted...... They are setting their children to an impossible standard which only one in a million could reach, and then force all the other children who does not reach that standard through all sorts of unnatural ways to change themselves to fit them into that tiny, tiny box, and to live up to that standard.
+LOVE4everSher, My parents always tell me how lenient they are compared to some other people they know. One person they knew, their child had to make above a 100--and I'm like that's impossible in my school, only so many teachers give extra credit. Another person I think actually cut off their child's limb.
If you look at individual preferences, it always varies, but there is obviously a general (or some few) standard(s) in (maybe each individual) western countries.
this video is so honest and the girl is so assertive and positive which itself is a very attractive personality trait . I'm not east asian but generally asian parents often consider long term effects while western culture is very different with the average person dating or being with numerous partners , In Asian culture i think a single partner is considered ideal so obviously parents try to assure he or she is perfect for their child . Hope that makes sense :)
Wth... since we are talking about 'outer beauty', however shallow this may be... Yii is so damn beautiful. Curse these stupid beauty standards...such rubbish... Mike and Dan are also very handsome !! Love the three of you, you always make my day!
For me, it's not just having the individual features I would find attractive, but how well put together. There are even features that I would not usually consider attractive, actually go better with some women I find attractive.
Thanks for the amazing video!
As an Asian woman (Chinese to be specific) in my twenties I really think that most young people nowadays don't value wealth as much as our parents do, or as much as the media says we do. We date people because we're interested in their personalities, common interests, etc., and the reason why the so-called golden standards '白富美' and '高富帅' are so well-known really comes down to the need of 'A standard' of beauty, if you know what I mean...
Also, there is a certain level of negativity when people talk about the golden standards here.
However, having a pale or fair skin is quite important, judging by the Asian standard. But then again it really depends on the person.
+Naomi Green BTW, really don't think that being tall is important, but I do admit that a lot of people care about it. And when some of my friends know that my bf is as tall as I am, I do get the "is that okay" looks. But until then, I didn't realize that height was supposed to be a thing when I fell for him, and still don't think so.
Anyways, I can only speak for my generation that being rich is not important when it comes to a relationship. It could be a bit of a problem if the two of you can't even make a living and are not planning to make an effort together, when the relationship gets serious.
I only watch random episodes (good job by the way) but this is the first time I notice the background music. is it a new thing? and this could be just me, but it took my focus away from the video and what was talked about. so, maybe something for you to consider? :)
but at the end, music or not, your videos are awesome. 👍
My parents actually hate that I'm pale skinned, because they view it as a sign of laziness. but I was never able to tan. I'll get sunburn but I won't tan. They even had me spray tanned for prom which made me look dirty and turned my skin orange.
Ok, number one: EVERYONE on that couch is beautiful/hansom. Seriously, if any of you aren't married and want to be, it's a complete mystery to me as to why you would be having any trouble at all.
Number two (my take): I come from a small town in the south and I am thankful for it in many ways because it's not so much about a standardized image put forward by the media, as much as it is "who you belong to" or who your family is. We are expected to first look at how much a family has put into their community and what their connections are when deciding if someone is worth our time in the dating world. Members of charitable, kind families who are in good standing in their communities have no trouble marrying well regardless of physical appearance in most cases. Members of lawless, rude, or greedy families tend to have to look a little longer.
Three: I am a firm believer that all loving parents want what is best for their children; however, we have to remember something about parents. They are human and just as prone to mistakes and bad judgement calls as children are. They just have a few years on us and want what is best. If given the choice between your child staying exactly as they were born and your child having to go through a painful surgery to change their appearance, I'm pretty sure they would chose to never even recommend the surgery. The only reason why a loving parent would do something like that is if they had become convinced it would make their child's life exponentially easier. It rings true in my own community and culture in regards to higher education. All the young ladies and gentlemen around here know they are expected (and are pushed) to go to college and obtain a degree. Why? It makes life easier in the long run even though universities are often hours away, it is expensive and most of us come away with thousands in student loans that we struggle years to repay. Our parents are still convinced it will lead us to a better life even though some of us may be happiest running a farm or working on cars or having a career working with the elderly and children. My advice? Parents are wiser than we are, but just as error prone as we are. Find what works for you. Know yourself. Love yourself and who you are for every unique characteristic and flaw. Love everyone and show it. Even they can't argue with that. :-)
I have no idea if this goes for all native Europeans, but I'm personally just more attracted towards healthiness over a body size. Being healthy means you're neither overweight nor overly skinny, but somewhere in between, yet preferably closer to the latter. This is achieved of course by simply eating a conservative amount of food and performing physical exercises to match your diet.
Male models have got this right for generations, being well trained and healthy looking. Female models have historically been too skinny, and now they're trying to make up for it by having overweight models as well. Is it really so difficult to have your average sized next door people, just going through a more healthy daily routine including both diet and practice, for models?
Also, regarding the skin of people. We're usually looking at the healthiness and pureness of the skin, rather than the color of it. For women, we're also generally looking at the softness of the skin.
This video has been up on youtube for a while. It's a little bit late to say it now, but I really love it!
Thanks a lot for sharing your thoughts about beauty and I really hope all Asians would think that way.
I'm Persian, Living in China, Working for a western company!! You are absolutely right!
What's really weird is that, when Dan was saying how the media shapes people's definition of what they find attractive, it was the one thing I found myself disagreeing with (personally). For years and years, I've been seeing basically the same category of people slapped on posters and marketed, and I honestly grew so bored of that - especially living in a place where over 96% of the population are white - that my "type" seems to be anybody who DOESN'T look like the typical US beauty standard.
my list of attractive girls:
attractive girls from any ethnicity.
who are we kidding? there are proportionally the same number of attractive girls in every ethnic background. it all depends on what you, individually, find attractive
I like Asian beauty I like how the makeup is fair soft and light very cute and beautiful
Let her speak, 😆 she's even raising her hand😭, hahaha, just messing this was educational
I'm really short💁🏻I'm embracing that🙆🏻
+2000hicup Hey! being short brings in so many advantages... its awesome!
same here 😏😏
Yi has amazing bone structure, her beauty is so elegant! And she's such a warm, kind, intelligent person!
Mike looked sooooo tired in this video!
Thank you Yi for the empowering message... You've got a really nice catch there, Dan ;)
Keep up the good work, guys!
The "light skin" applies to Southeast Asians (and according to my black friends, black people) as well. I've heard in Thailand that girls are using methods to "whiten" their skin which is apparently a South Korean pop-culture influence. In the Philippines, most of the girls on TV and Film are mixed w/ a white race when most of the country is more tan.
I applaud your strength Yi to learn to like yourself rather than try to be something else. All of you are putting in my opinion what is a very healthy perspectives on appearance/self worth out there which so many people (especial young people) need.
Why do you think east asia has such a singular notion of beauty?
My Grandmother used to tell me '''Beauty is only skin deep'',
I like this vid very much. I subscribed. You have very nice, down to earth, balanced and healthy opinions. I loved to hear. Especially the girl's opinion was interesting to me - I agree with everything and thank god you didn't do plastic surgery, you look great to me! You have very strong Chinese looks to me, but it's characteristic and nice. I don't think Europeans want everyone to look like them. It is others that want to look "western", and I don't know if it's exactly good. People are best looking, being the most beautiful version of themselves, the way they were made. I really like the point about health being beautiful - I agree with this so much - but could not voice it well before hearing this video.
I am European, and keep in mind in Europe each country has a bit different standards of beauty. We are very diverse in Europe. Also we don't consider South America a "Western country". It's simply south america, latino culture. Maybe people think different in the US. It's interesting!
And to end my entry - I really like your Chen vids. I'll be watching all the rest of them. Thanks! :) I'm a fan now!
The Chinese issue with being 'fat' is actually quite dangerous, I say this because I am Chinese and all my life I have was told that I am fat by every Chinese elder from my Mum to my parents' friends. I accepted that as fact and, because I am particularly thick skinned, I just got on with life. However, during my teens I actually put on a lot weight but because I have always been told that I was 'fat', it had no effect on me when people told me I was becoming fat/fatter, I just smiled and said I've always been fat. In retrospect, looking at photos of prior to puberty, I didn't start of fat but I did become fat. So because I became desensitized to that particular comment/observation from pretty much everyone, when it did matter - when it became an actually health warning - it have no effect.
Funnily enough when I got really skinny, my elders kept asking me if I was ill. Which just goes to show, I just can't win!
Hey, you should do a video about interracial dating/marriage from the family's perspective. When I went to China this year, my relatives told me to marry at least an Asian guy, if not Chinese. When I told them I can't guarantee that, they all got mad at me!
I know this is an old video, but I found it so fascinating and enlightening. Growing up as an American I always assumed that western beauty standards must be the worst and most unrealistic. I thought other cultures must have more natural, traditional, and realistic views of beauty.
im a 172cm sophomore and im already considered as very tall, the guys around me are either shorter than me or just a little bit taller. Its hard to find taller guys in asia
Y’all are AWESOME! Stay true to yourselves always!
You are all beautiful & handsome + Intelligent, open-minded & exceptional. Keep up the good work. I stumbled on your channel about 2-3 weeks ago & I love all your topics. We are of very different cultures. But our "challenges" of growing up in the West with parents of other cultures remain the same. Thanks gals & guys.
Just how tall are you guys? I'm curious😝
Aiko Rini 5ft 5 and 5ft 6 I think
Chinese have different taste, I have small eyes and dark yellowish skin, but I was considered one of the most beautiful girl in my high school.
Not sure if you guys were talking about the same China that I used to live or a China from another dimension or maybe a China from 20 years ago?
You probably got most of your impression from your parents, but your parents that left China decades ago might can't represent other Chinese people well.
I don't know much about Korean, but Japanese definitely have different taste, too.
well being indian i can attest to how indian culture is ingrained with fair skin being the standard of beauty. my mom's side of the family was lighter skinned than my father's side. my father is more dark skinned than my mother. my complexion is in between more of a natural tan but when i was a baby i was very fair skinned and my mother would tell me how relatives would compliment my mother on what a "pretty white baby" she had. the beauty and cosmetic industry in india has lots of creams and lotions for women to lighten their skin just like in other asian countries. unfortunately this has led to lots of ethnic and racial tensions amongst indians that is still part of the culture. this of course, is a holdover from a lot of european influence but indians vary in their appearance with many skin tones not just from the european influx but also due to many invasions over the centuries going back to alexander the great and the arayan invasion.
This is helpful as I'm starting to consider the dating scene in my late 30s....so late on this date train but this reminded me of my brother (who is 75% Cantonese and other stuff, like me) dating a Mexican Cantonese mixed girl. In San Francisco and Bay Area , the mixed ethnic groups get blurred. I wonder if that's how it's gotten with beauty. I agree though with you guys, finding those lasting qualities is what counts.
hwasa from the kpop girl group MAMAMOO is curvy and i RESPECT HER !!
Yeahh her body are.goals😍
why would anyone want her to get plastic surgery? I personally think she is very beautiful. I'm glad she didn't get work done cuz she prob looks way better without it. it makes sad when people get surgery because their family pressures them.
Do Asian girls find western boys particularly attractive? I went to China over the summer and I was constantly having to take selfies with teenage girls most places I went because they thought I was really hot and stuff because I was white (I'm 14 btw) and 6 feet and 3 inches tall
As an asian i can tell you that if you white, tall, young and not fat then you are hot to most of asian girls
Showme yo face then i can discribe lol
Being A Fifth Koran. Korean Beauty Standards Shape The Way I Carry My Self. I Have A Darker Skin Tone, And I Spend About €3,270 Every Summer And Skin Lighters, And About €1,000 On Makeup.
How tall do Chinese women want their men to be? I mean, especially outside northern China, an expectation for a 6' or over guy seems crazy.
Yi is very well spoken :) love when she's in your videos!
hey guys, its been a while since you posted this video but wanted to comment anyway on this topic. In Nepal, our standards are quite different to china it seems. I can't speak for all of my country but from my big family, I can definitely say that looking Chinese is considered more beautiful. I guess it depends on who you look up to as a nation as being beautiful. To me and my family you guys would be considered handsome and beautiful. just bringing out a different perspective out there. but yea definitely fair skinned people are seen as more beautiful there too
btw i love all of your channels.
+Swechha Gurung Are the Chinese considered wealthy? This would make sense then.
Well. Nepal is a very diverse contry with different ethnic people. And i guess the more chinese looking are wealthier so it makes sense yea