10 things I hate about Korea (Social Issues in Korea) - part 2

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  • Опубліковано 3 чер 2024
  • Part Two of [10 things I hate about Korea]
    In this video, I talk about some things that I feel are social issues in Korea.
    [subscribe to my channel💖]
    / @kelseythekorean
    [subtitle contributions💖]
    If you are fluent in another language, please contribute translations here:
    amara.org/en/videos/OuV0QPkh5...
    [My instagram💖]
    / kelseyjeong_98
    [Business email💖]
    taradaun020866@gmail.com
    [timeline]
    0:00 intro
    0:54 Koreans can be small minded
    3:56 Patriarchy
    6:25 Racism
    10:46 Air pollusion
    12:03 Population density

КОМЕНТАРІ • 2 тис.

  • @KelseytheKorean
    @KelseytheKorean  2 роки тому +77

    Watch part 1 of this video: ua-cam.com/video/Sdyqjk__Vdc/v-deo.html

    • @elshaddai321
      @elshaddai321 2 роки тому

      Kelsey I'm a black American who is Christian and if a black, asian, spanish, white who don't go to church and don't serve God and don't believe in God then i would not want them to marry my son or daughter if i did have any children and that don't mean I'm a racist it mean that there are standards that i would want for future children that i would have. So stop calling Koreans racist because you might be from America and believe anything that news media and liberals say. We should be Americans and not African American or Asian American or Latin American or Irish American. If South Korea don't want to friends with all foreigners then Kelsey respect their decisions okay. Um American that is black and not African.

    • @lilithherard-santiago5649
      @lilithherard-santiago5649 2 роки тому +3

      I appreciate your honesty.And believe me i don't think less of Korean still love the culture and am still willing yo explore it.

    • @elshaddai321
      @elshaddai321 2 роки тому

      Kelsey were you born in America or Korea ?

    • @tonymoretti2347
      @tonymoretti2347 Рік тому +1

      So.... Why is unfortunate that White people aren't looked down.

    • @tonymoretti2347
      @tonymoretti2347 Рік тому

      @@elshaddai321 surely raised in the States the woke meter is going off

  • @vickyagiomavritis3426
    @vickyagiomavritis3426 2 роки тому +1544

    I feel like S. Korea is a country with the technology of the 2050's but the mentality of the 1950's.

    • @Garamisinnocent1116
      @Garamisinnocent1116 2 роки тому +60

      I agree so much

    • @_blink_xg
      @_blink_xg 2 роки тому +85

      the country was restarted and rebuilt during the 1950s so yes- many Asian countries not just Korea have not caught up with the Western world in real time.

    • @mrscitrine3592
      @mrscitrine3592 2 роки тому

      Yep

    • @ciggytwiggy
      @ciggytwiggy 2 роки тому

      Yuhh

    • @arewealone9969
      @arewealone9969 2 роки тому +16

      @@_blink_xg western world? Wtf is that supposed to mean…

  • @daydreamingaboutyou6112
    @daydreamingaboutyou6112 3 роки тому +3456

    Your videos don't discourage me, in fact, listening to these things makes me prepare for possible things that I might face.

    • @KelseytheKorean
      @KelseytheKorean  3 роки тому +480

      YEESSSSSS That’s the goal of this video😭😭 love ur mindset😉

    • @milkbread5036
      @milkbread5036 3 роки тому +27

      Me too!

    • @vitoriamachado6860
      @vitoriamachado6860 3 роки тому +18

      I think the same like you.

    • @daydreamingaboutyou6112
      @daydreamingaboutyou6112 3 роки тому +2

      @@vitoriamachado6860 Planeja ir pra Coréia quando amiga?

    • @MC-ko2mx
      @MC-ko2mx 3 роки тому +52

      Better to hear the unvarnished truth, than to arrive and find out the hard way that you have been romanticising about XYZ, right?

  • @minhodes
    @minhodes 3 роки тому +2834

    Honestly, visiting Seoul for the first time was a cultural shock for me. I'm from an arab descent, so dark curly hair, tanned skin, all that jazz. Got tattoos on top of that. I was travelling with my friend who's white, and while nobody said to me anything racist, the difference between how my friend and I were treated by people was really big, to the point where even she felt uncomfortable and to a point I felt so alienated that I cried even, and I'm far from being a crier lol. but feeling like that in a foreign country was super isolating. it was especially noticeable from customer service workers at stores, they would smile at her and ask her if she needs help constantly, the cashiers would be super nice and smiley to her, even if she spoke one or two korean words they would get super excited, meanwhile I would get cold attitude and faces, I would be ignored, stared at, and even if I spoke basic conversation in Korean nobody really cared, let alone get excited about it lol. that being said, when I learned how to ignore those things and just accept them as they are, Korea was super fun and there's a lot to see and do, I even came back a 2nd time and was supposed to come back a third time but then covid hit. but yeah, definitely not a fun experience when you go through it for the first time.

    • @hebaa___6591
      @hebaa___6591 3 роки тому +216

      Thanks for being such a big hearted and sharing your story 💜💜

    • @cassiadsouza709
      @cassiadsouza709 3 роки тому +199

      I'm so sorry you had to go through that. If I were you I'd probably not leave my hotel again lmao but it's great you still enjoyed your experience. I don't think I'm strong enough to face such discrimination

    • @KelseytheKorean
      @KelseytheKorean  3 роки тому +716

      Thank you for sharing ur story. There has been good Korean media that capture this type of Korean behavior (they set up secret cameras and make a white person and a non white foreigner ask for the same things to a Korean and the different attitudes that some Koreans have are shocking) and Koreans were embarrassed to face that aspect of society. There were talks in my middle school and high school from teachers educating students not to act differently depending on a person’s race but unfortunately still many Koreans behave that way. I just feel sorry for those Koreans that they’re not educated enough and don’t hang out with them. Anyway, glad you wanna come and enjoy other parts of Korea💖

    • @robguyton3577
      @robguyton3577 3 роки тому +51

      @@samsam_sa Years ago, I was in the aisle seat on a plane to Vienna for a business conference, sitting next to 2 guys from sub-Saharan Africa. Ignoring me, they babbled in French, and I got a strong vibe that they felt superior to me (I'm Asian). I know body and facial language very well (from my years of dating women), so it was a very distasteful, sad experience.

    • @alwaystakemarktwainsadvice4269
      @alwaystakemarktwainsadvice4269 3 роки тому +11

      Sorry to hear that. It had to have been pretty bad if your friend was getting extremely uncomfortable with it.

  • @aloraiscool
    @aloraiscool 3 роки тому +1645

    I stayed in Korea for 90 days and I experienced one uncomfortable situation. I was in a mall in Suwon and a child pointed at me and asked his grandfather why my skin was dirty (I'm black)? He immediately looked at me, shushed his grandson picked him up and rushed out the front door. Mind you, Suwon is close to Seoul so there are many foreigners who visit, so I was shocked that this child has never been exposed to a black person before. All I could do is smile and brush it off.

    • @jannat4650
      @jannat4650 3 роки тому +187

      im sorry you had to face this, I hope you're okay now.

    • @Alexandra-yd1iz
      @Alexandra-yd1iz 3 роки тому +50

      Did he really say that? I'm so shocked

    • @aloraiscool
      @aloraiscool 3 роки тому +361

      @@Alexandra-yd1iz kids have no filter, they say whatever's on their mind

    • @lilyLovesStories
      @lilyLovesStories 3 роки тому +23

      Oh wow, I'm so sorry u went thru that

    • @leowa399
      @leowa399 3 роки тому +400

      I think the grandpas behaviour was more problematic than the childs. A child doesn't know certain things but as an adult it's important to address errors they make or answer questions they have so that they can learn. Instead of shushing the kid and making it feel bad for its reaction (which might become a negative memory associated with you) the grandpa should have just taught him about different ethnicities

  • @user-ov5kp3vt2t
    @user-ov5kp3vt2t 3 роки тому +979

    I'm Korean girl who lives in Korea, and all her saying is true

    • @zephyrblake9431
      @zephyrblake9431 3 роки тому +61

      As a southeast asian from the Philippines, majority of the filipinos are aware about racism in Korea , the mere fact that Philippines considered Korea as bestfriend started during Korean War and became major trading partner with each other
      But majority of us are open minded, we understand that maybe koreans are not expose to different races, but the fact that koreans are the #1 tourist who visited in the Philippines behind Japanese, Westeners and Americans proven that not all koreans have the same thought about Sourheast Asians, filipinos exposed to different people, different nationality so we are immune to this kind of stuff since tourism is our country's major income
      In fact there are many koreans choose to leave here in the Philippine, majority of the population here in Cebu City are Koreans and they are really nice
      There are also many Korean-Filipino couple here who fell in love with each other and getting married while the Korean girl/guy staying in our country to study english :)

    • @dontignoremebaby32
      @dontignoremebaby32 2 роки тому +1

      *I'm real guy who wants to live in your heart, and all my saying is true*
      Now, Don't lie that you already have boyfriend. You got Instagram?

    • @dontignoremebaby32
      @dontignoremebaby32 2 роки тому

      BTW, *Don't "judge me by my name..."*

    • @4jnyt574
      @4jnyt574 2 роки тому +31

      @@dontignoremebaby32cringe 😑😑

    • @dontignoremebaby32
      @dontignoremebaby32 2 роки тому

      @@4jnyt574 🤔 i luv u 😛

  • @moonhaewon4217
    @moonhaewon4217 3 роки тому +1760

    Honestly you are so right! Korea is not what everyone always says. I am from Daegu, South Korea 🇰🇷 and most standards are so harsh and unfair. Not all Koreans are open minded so beware and don’t be too surprised if somebody makes a comment about your life decisions and/or physical appearance. If someone makes a unkind remark on anything about you, don’t believe them because you are beautiful and amazing. Love yourself 💜

    • @sageerssy9428
      @sageerssy9428 3 роки тому +16

      Cool comment ☺️

    • @moonhaewon4217
      @moonhaewon4217 3 роки тому +9

      Thx 💜

    • @DMorga
      @DMorga 2 роки тому +8

      💜💜💜 I'm a foreigner living in Daegu! Thank you for your kind words!

    • @moonhaewon4217
      @moonhaewon4217 2 роки тому +3

      @@DMorga 💕

    • @CheekyGal301
      @CheekyGal301 2 роки тому +4

      Thank you for your kind words!

  • @user-sz7zj2we5k
    @user-sz7zj2we5k 2 роки тому +847

    I am 44years old korean women.. i lived in rural area in korea most of my life..
    nowdays i have quited changed becuase
    of this kind of video..
    and also many ppl live out of korea are making their life in other country.
    it is really helpful for understading culture and ppl from out side of korea.
    thank you for this video.
    p.s :
    if anyone who has bad experience in korea, i feel really sorry for them.
    atually we are not really same with K -drama..
    😥

    • @meghadahire994
      @meghadahire994 2 роки тому +12

      That's really nice.

    • @daldacare7973
      @daldacare7973 2 роки тому +8

      Yes I agree..we Indians love Koreans so much

    • @ma.deeawatin9319
      @ma.deeawatin9319 2 роки тому +15

      @@daldacare7973 korean dramas are sooooo big influence...thats why plenty loves SK including me...thats why i also try to watch this kinds of vlogs to educate myself..and also im dreamin of going SK...🤗

    • @daldacare7973
      @daldacare7973 2 роки тому +10

      @@ma.deeawatin9319 yes I too agree that..many students and girls from our country shift to Korea because of all fantasies

    • @KD_k1978
      @KD_k1978 2 роки тому +14

      @@daldacare7973 I think we should understand the difference between Korean dramas fantacy and reality as India is not exactly what shown in Indian TV Serials it's same for everywhere what shown in the Tv is not always true no one consider themselves bad......
      According to me everywhere in the world both good and bad things exist together every country have their own social issues we should address them and solve them so that we can make our country and the world a better place to live.

  • @Blue-gl7jn
    @Blue-gl7jn 2 роки тому +218

    What hurts the most, being southeast asian and a filipino is that koreans forgot that filipino soldiers are part of their history, they achieved democracy and freedom because a lot of our able soldiers helped and fought for them and yet a lot of them are openly racist towards us.

    • @xenomoe9519
      @xenomoe9519 2 роки тому +13

      And Filipinos are as racist as Koreans. Let's not forget that too.

    • @amosnorman548
      @amosnorman548 2 роки тому +6

      I’m Korean and I currently have a Filipino girlfriend. So Not all Koreans are as you describe them to be.

    • @persephone109
      @persephone109 2 роки тому +12

      @@amosnorman548 not all but many.

    • @winnieloh4279
      @winnieloh4279 2 роки тому +13

      @@xenomoe9519 Look ; all of us are racist to some degree. In general, the Philippine is a friendlier place for business and visit. And I’m not from Philippine.

    • @netijhen
      @netijhen 2 роки тому +9

      @@xenomoe9519 the Philippines just a toxic. They are toxic just about video game, if you see the Philippines in they country, they are very nice. Btw IM from Indonesia why we know it, everyone Will be toxic cus a game bro

  • @diskea
    @diskea 3 роки тому +1674

    A lot of mature black people won’t be too shocked by what you said in this video. Most of us know all this about South Korea already. It’s just a sector of black people who look for videos trying to validate their love for Korea when deep down they know that many Koreans don’t accept the idea of us outside of entertainment. This doesn’t mean that you won’t find a date, or that every Korean will hate you but just know that you will have to find validation in yourself and not the opinions of a whole race of people who don’t totally get who you truly are anyways. This is completely fine too. Enjoy Korea’s sights and the overall experience to enrich your life. What Korean people think of you doesn’t matter Especially those who’re ignorant beyond repair. Always Be bold melanated Kings and Queens. ✊🏾👊🏾👌🏾👏🏾🙏🏾 NEVER LET ANYONE RUN YOU OUT OF SPACES. Get what you can out of the experience then move on.

    • @goldenunicorn2690
      @goldenunicorn2690 3 роки тому +23

      Why do you wanna go to the country that you may experience that kind of things?
      We have The us and we have enough for that.

    • @Khandiee
      @Khandiee 2 роки тому +212

      @@goldenunicorn2690 why should we feel we can’t go to certain places. The only way to make change happen is to make steps to help those changes and visiting places where they aren’t exposed to us is the best way to fight those stigmas because then they can see for themselves.

    • @festivax
      @festivax 2 роки тому +19

      @@Khandiee yes! (。・ω・。)ノ♡

    • @ev2175
      @ev2175 2 роки тому +82

      @@Khandiee I agree. It’s not about causing a ruckus but showing others who don’t have an actual knowledge of black people outside of biased media that we are just people too.

    • @totally_a_spy
      @totally_a_spy 2 роки тому +59

      @@goldenunicorn2690 to create change and because everywhere began like that. Every country was homogenous. Black people have always had to create a space that's safe and accepting of them

  • @Y_8204
    @Y_8204 3 роки тому +738

    I’ve visited Korea a few times and what I noticed the most was the high beauty standards and how prevalent “pretty privilege” is when you meet their ideal.. (offered free service, people being more nice to you etc.) also the one size clothing, skin tone foundations etc.. really creates a sense of a one-size-fits-all conformity mindset and pressure to fit in this box.. although I know there have been more awareness and more improvements in this area

    • @lavijain7403
      @lavijain7403 3 роки тому +11

      I have never visited Korea but would like to visit once.. all I know about Korea is what google says or other youtubers or bolggers inform.. so I really don't know anything about the "pretty privilege" and it's very hard to imagine as nothing of the kind happens in my country..but the one-tone foundation and one-size clothing thing seems a bit exaggerated.. I mean it's a homogeneous society. So people don't look that different plus beauty standards in Korea are very high and as per that everybody usually has the same body type as each other..so it makes no sense for the traders/businessmen to stock something that nobody buys or a very few people buys.. it's simply the theory of demand and supply.. there's higher demand for those products so it's natural for the traders/businessmen to supply them more.. aren't they just catering their customers' needs while minimising certain costs for themselves?? And let's say say they do keep foundations in every tone and clothes of every size, but the demand of the lesser used shades and size is so less that it hardly gets sold then those products would get expired/out of trend and no one would ever want them causing loss of purchase cost and loss of carrying, ordering and managing cost.. I am really sorry if I come out as a rude person but the unavailability of different shades and sizes is not because they are racist and stuff it's because there's no demand of those products.. correct me if I'm wrong anywhere.. again I am really sorry if I sounded rude or mean..😇

    • @Y_8204
      @Y_8204 3 роки тому +44

      @@lavijain7403 of course you’re right, but I always question how much of the actual demand is real vs also a product of society’s creation? Having seen many natives (including a lot of my friends) who naturally have slightly darker skin shades and bodies that are more voluminous.. I do question the demand. Quite a few of my Korean girlfriends have also told me they’ve done surgery, but it’s quite normal to accept. Further, the diet culture is huge in Korea and really in most East Asian countries (I’m East Asian also and the pressure on being thin can get somewhat extreme). And yes the one size clothing is very real, especially if you shop on the popular main streets vs actual malls. So I do see your point from a business pov!
      I do love many things about Korea, but I think it’s also important to address some of the real issues for the betterment of all :)

    • @chrisc1184
      @chrisc1184 3 роки тому +12

      This exists here in America here too, sadly. Just spend some time in LA or NYC :(

    • @AsiaInMyHeart
      @AsiaInMyHeart 3 роки тому +13

      the skin products all have skin whitening ingredients in them

    • @raiden_187
      @raiden_187 2 роки тому +5

      Yeah they value pretty privilege to the max

  • @tessfromtheu.s256
    @tessfromtheu.s256 3 роки тому +218

    Just because racism is normalized and accepted does not mean that it's ok; I think it's easy if you have never been a victim of severe racism to brush it off as "they don't know better." As a teacher who travels I just want be in an environment where im not constantly stressed about how people view me. I have no malice towards the way they think I simply care about my mental health more.

    • @openranks4519
      @openranks4519 2 місяці тому +1

      “Constantly stressing about how people view me” is literally a YOU🫵 problem…

    • @openranks4519
      @openranks4519 2 місяці тому +1

      Seems like you have a self esteem and confidence problem that you need to solve internally.

  • @prachi1565
    @prachi1565 3 роки тому +1072

    Hi Kelsey.. I am an Indian.. I really love your videos.. Not only in Korea but in general everywhere Indians are looked down.. I have no idea why.. we are as smart and kind as any other nationality.. just because of some stupid preconceived notions some people discriminate Indians.. things have changed.. I wish people won't look down on people of color..

    • @Lanylany24
      @Lanylany24 3 роки тому +133

      I can relate what you're saying. I'm from Latin America and I'm of color too. It's sad how so many people and cultures think in that way about people of color, but more than sad, it's stupid. The world is like a color palette, with light tones, medium, and dark ones, those tones also mix between. All those shades of color are part of the same palette and if a shade is missing, then the palette is incomplete. When those people and cultures understand that they'll figure out that the world is not all about them and their culture of environment (not talking only about korean people) things will gonna be differente. The real world is about every culture, country and every etnicity. This is the real world, and regardless of that those with more economic power set the game rules, we're all part of the same world and no culture or etnicity owns it.

    • @lavijain7403
      @lavijain7403 3 роки тому +179

      Prachi it's the western media that does it.. we are looked down upon because that's how they portray India.. slums everywhere and unhygienic environment which is full of diseases,crimes and poverty.. this is all they show when it comes to India.. jabki slums and poverty is a part of every country.. if there are rich people there would be poor people as well..but that's all they show about us..if you watched slumdog millionaire, all that is shown in the name of mumbai were the slums and not what mumbai actually is..i know showing the slums was important as per the plot but there are people who believe that's all what India is got to offer. They have so many stereotypes regarding us and it's all thanks to the media..
      So don't get disheartened, ulta have the motivation that once we get to these countries we will show them about how wrong they are in looking down upon us..and honestly speaking it has started the world has started to see that India is something, something that can't be ignored and put into trashcan anymore..so let's just wait a lil bit longer.. as for racism because of colour, our skin colour isn't something that we choose.. it's something we are born with and we can't change that.. so let's just love it and be proud of it and do not get sad or depressed because of how others behave.. cuz they are just despising because they are jealous they can't be like us ..😎😎

    • @chrisc1184
      @chrisc1184 3 роки тому +81

      Don't worry Western media has a done a fantastic job in influencing how people see Asians too LOL. They suck.

    • @veenakumar455
      @veenakumar455 3 роки тому +96

      @@lavijain7403 you are absolutely right!! They portrayed always with slum and beggar, dirty street etc.... That's the western countries tactic to show them better! Worst part is Korea also is shown for kpop idol with makeup things and downplayed their music and all stuff related to them. But Korea always lick westerners as a better example of status and all... The most stupid thing is Indian youngster supporting BTS and all when in fact they will never do a concert in India... Lots of UA-camr are using Indian community for views since in China most social media is banned

    • @lavijain7403
      @lavijain7403 3 роки тому +70

      @@veenakumar455 I know a lot of youtubers make content about India so that a lot of viewers would be attracted..that is unethical but not wrong.. it's a business strategy because India has the 2nd largest population and even if 0.01% of Indians watch their videos they will earn nicely..having ideas to earn money aren't wrong plus they aren't spreading any false information.. It's unethical because a lot of youtubers are only saying those words to make money and they actually don't mean any of it..now the thing with BTS is if they see a market in India there company will not drop the the opportunity to capture that market because of again the population..they aren't doing any concerts as of now because BTS is not that popular in India as in the west and Indians are exceptionally famous for not spending there money in a lot of luxuries as most of the population is middle-class and concerts are a luxury..Indian youngsters aren't supporting BTS because they want a concert..of course as a fan they do want to witness them performing live just once but the fandom is not based on this notion alone..I am also an ARMY and I support BTS because of there amazing discography and healing lyrical abilities..even when I can't understand the language I can feel the depth and I get consoled by it..we stan them because they are talented..having a concert or not is not something that lies under their area of decision-making.. it's the company and like every business they are also focused on profits..If they see profits then they won't leave it..they have done concert in Riyadh and we all know that western media spoils the image of middle-east the most..

  • @ishwaridatir9857
    @ishwaridatir9857 2 роки тому +236

    Whenever I meet people who have a narrow mentality I just say that we are all blood and bones afterall. Skin is just a wrapping paper to make the gift inside look more beautiful❤

  • @KelseytheKorean
    @KelseytheKorean  3 роки тому +634

    *disclaimer* Plz don't forget that this is my PERSONAL opinion/analysis about Korea! I'm 24(born in 98) and lived in Korea for 20yrs, so this content is basically a compilation on my experiences in Korea and experience of my friends(both Korean/foreign). Your Korean experience might be totally different from what I state here and my words are not the bible obviously!! :) I'm human, so the ppl I socialize with irl are at most 100 ppl, and the stories I hear from those 100ppl are from their social groups, which are around a 100 each, which makes my Korean experience limited to a group of 10000ppl. Keep that in mind, and take my words with a grain of salt ;). I do think I have insight about how Korea feels to foreign ppl cuz of my unique background, and so I made this video to help foreigners, especially bc with the recent hype of Korea, some foreigners seem to think that Korea doesn't have problems or have unrealistic expectations and they become disappointed when they come here :)
    Plz don't hesitate to share your own Korean experience, it's really interesting for me to read them and it helps to build an open community where everyone can talk about their experiences!! Also, it's more data added to my 10000ppl's data, so it evens out things I think :) Share positive experiences honestly, and negative experiences honestly too!
    Anyway hope this video helped you guys in some way

    • @vasilisn9373
      @vasilisn9373 3 роки тому +4

      It's still 2021...so you're 23 (not 24) congrats

    • @pamelaa.1356
      @pamelaa.1356 3 роки тому +35

      @@vasilisn9373 You have to remember there is Korean age and International age. In South Korea their calendar year is different and you can be 1-2 older depending on the month you were born.

    • @adejareojo
      @adejareojo 3 роки тому

      I moved to Cuba📻 from 📺Nigeria back in🌍 1998🌁

    • @chrisc1184
      @chrisc1184 3 роки тому +6

      Hopefully, Korea will do better with racial issues. I def see the efforts to teach about racial differences in schools esp. with more Korean people marrying other races and more foreigners coming to live here. Korea also needs to do better if they want to be respected as an economic superpower and a major tourist hub.

    • @uddajag8232
      @uddajag8232 3 роки тому +9

      I fell in love with K-dramas about a year ago. I've watched/binged so many of them I'm too embarrassed to tell how many... 😉 And yes they are not reality. I never believed they were. But almost everything you've talked about are things I have noticed and/or concluded from watching k-dramas. So you can find these issues even in the most rosy of dramas.
      I used to be a Media- and communication student and still analyse dramas and movies in perhaps a different way than most people. Maybe that is one reason I make different conclusions. But maybe I'm also too old to buy everything I see without questioning it (I'm 46).
      And one thing you didn't mention that I've also noticed is how especially women my age and older are mostly depicted in K-dramas. They are only intrested in feeding their usually adult children, marry off their children, berating their children (and husbands). They normally don't have any interests beyond their family and their house. And as a consequence are also completely de-sexualised. They are not individuals, not women with desires and dreams, but "The Mother". An almost archetypical depiction that's usually very similar between dramas. There are of course exceptions, but this is the most common way to portray middle-aged women I've seen in K-dramas. I've wondered how Korean women around that age feel about seeing this image so frequently repeated. And I also wonder if this is is the ideal Korean women are expected to take on in Korea especially as they grow older? Just to be clear; I would absolutely hate that. 😒 And I assume there must be many Korean women who are not comfortable with that either.

  • @hippiehill1
    @hippiehill1 2 роки тому +65

    The beauty standards is what always get me, South Korea has one of the highest female suicide rates in the world and it definitely seems like this can be the reason for it

    • @BiG-JuPO1O1
      @BiG-JuPO1O1 2 роки тому +3

      And plastic surgery, I heard some stories where teenagers at certain age are offered plastic surgery to fix their face to fit beauty standard of Korea.

  • @motivation0209
    @motivation0209 2 роки тому +64

    I was in Pohang Korea and I experienced what I cal "mild" racism but over all I had a great experience. What I can't understand how Koreans can recognize and know it's wrong for Japanese to refuse acknowledging mistreatment and "comfort women" atrocities yet Koreans don't recognize nor accept they have the same mindset to ppl of color as Japanese had and still towards Koreans. The hypocrisy of the Korean racist/prejudice mindset was truly baffling.

    • @kelli35
      @kelli35 Рік тому +2

      Amen! I know you made this comment months ago but, had to add my two cents. It is truly baffling to watch some Korean commentary channels brush off obvious racism, like we are being too sensitive. For example, I was curious to hear what these channels had to say about accusations of black American cultural appropriation in K-Pop or instances of blackface in Korea. They simply brush it off. Like what?! They can get all up in arms if someone has a rising sun picture on a t-shirt but think blackface is ok. It’s incredible! Most of their K-Pop groups are doing an imitation of R&B and Hip-Hop yet, it is seldom acknowledged. The groups are fascinating and fun to watch but, I wonder if they know anything about where it all comes from. They love everything we created yet we are less than and see us a dirt? Well, I guess it is what it is and, it is disgusting!

  • @slee4110
    @slee4110 2 роки тому +93

    I’m a Korean-American woman, a mother of two kids and a full-time doctor. While it hasn’t been easy to do that in the US, I often think that I would not have been able to do both at all in Korea.
    Given Korea’s extremely low birth rate, it would make sense to promote women being able to work and have careers. Secondly, if mothers could work after having children, you would not lose these members of the workforce and women might even be more encouraged to have children.
    Korea is now on the world stage politically, economically, and culturally. It is appropriate to open up societal views to issues from the outside world

    • @drippingout6154
      @drippingout6154 2 роки тому

      I'm not Korean but housing became part of problem too, isn'it? while many idol buy a buliding and many of Korean lease/rent a house (apartment)

    • @samaraisnt
      @samaraisnt Рік тому

      Nothing they do makes sense to help people have babies...it's all opposite.

  • @tulika_9519
    @tulika_9519 3 роки тому +426

    By the way..if you come to India, you can EASILY make friends 😂👍 That's for sure. Specially young generation & educated people.
    We are too good in making friends.

    • @peroxo
      @peroxo 3 роки тому +14

      True 😊😂

    • @ariann9714
      @ariann9714 3 роки тому +46

      I like Indian people, we have many Indian students here in Kazakhstan (Central Asia) and I always want to make friends with them, but I’m too shy 😆 btw they don’t dress properly when it’s cold they don’t wear warm clothes and I’m always so worried about them in winter

    • @ariann9714
      @ariann9714 3 роки тому +41

      I like Indian girls’ hair, it’s super thick beautiful and the volume is big, my favorite actress is Deepika Padukone, also my grandmother and pretty much every grandma in our country watched Anandi tv show😅

    • @peroxo
      @peroxo 3 роки тому +28

      @@ariann9714once you get to know indian people you'll not be shy anymore........oh God that show is gaining so much popularity 😂😂

    • @Zerep777
      @Zerep777 3 роки тому +23

      I haven’t met a lot of Indians (although he isn’t Indian) my college chemistry professor is from Sri Lanka and he was hands down one of my favorite professors in college! He had such a sweet and kind personality and his aura would just shine. I took 3 chemistry classes with him and loved every second of it.

  • @bns481
    @bns481 3 роки тому +666

    The way you explain how Koreans act racist/small minded is how Americans in rural communities act against other races. Its tragic, and I'm glad there's a social movement in Korea as well. Our social movements are messy but, still holding strong (far as I can tell) Thank-you for the honest video! I was really curious about the air pollution, so I appreciate you touching on that topic also. =)

    • @chrisc1184
      @chrisc1184 3 роки тому +44

      Based on spending time in both countries, I think things are worse in the U.S., especially during these times.
      You have Asian hate crimes, police brutality, more white people becoming radicalized to the far right, the weakened power of the police, conflicts between minorities, and even extremism from the far-left. I honestly feel like things are getting worse rather than better.

    • @mikek5298
      @mikek5298 3 роки тому +11

      Exactly why I live in a “rural community”. Keep your welfare, crime, and victimhood attitudes in the big cities. After all, they are doing SUCH a great job dealing with it....Portland, Minneapolis, Seattle, Los Angeles, Chicago, etc., etc., etc.

    • @mikek5298
      @mikek5298 3 роки тому +12

      @@chrisc1184 Due to the “everyone is a victim” message coming straight from the top. Ever heard of “Judge a person not by the color of his skin, but by the content of his character”. I challenge you to tell that to BLM, who use the color if their skin in the name of their organization. It is you and your thinking that destroys racial harmony in the U.S. Wake up.

    • @chrisc1184
      @chrisc1184 3 роки тому +38

      @@mikek5298 Where is this even coming from? I'm an independent thinker and don't take political sides. I'm just observing the chaos that's happening and nobody is willing to admit that things are getting worse in the states.

    • @upthedown1
      @upthedown1 3 роки тому +4

      You don't need a social movement. Everyone is not going to like you. So what? Just like you don't like everyone. Just be civil with one another. I don't have to laugh at your jokes and you don't have to invite me over for coffee type of thing🤫😉

  • @levac912
    @levac912 3 роки тому +135

    I am a dark brown south east asian and planning to visit South Korea soon, as a tourist. I am just prepared to be judged and face racism, but never discouraged. Your videos really helped me to prepare myself mentally on what I should expect.

    • @perlanookaraju1309
      @perlanookaraju1309 2 роки тому +5

      Best of luck 😊

    • @persephone109
      @persephone109 2 роки тому +9

      Appreciate the place but don't mind the racist people there. Their opinions shouldn't matter. Best of luck

    • @pondokindahbgt1387
      @pondokindahbgt1387 2 роки тому +4

      I've been visited south korea in 2018. So far its good experience. Maybe because its organized by travel agent. People at the merchandise shop, tour guide and crews nice enough. Even we met with group of adult women at a mountain (forget the name, maybe mt. Sorak), that realy nice, greeting us and even took some photos

    • @pondokindahbgt1387
      @pondokindahbgt1387 2 роки тому +1

      I'm indonesian fyi

    • @daeseongkim93
      @daeseongkim93 2 роки тому +4

      As a visitor only for a short term you shouldn't worry, most of the racism is subvert not overt especially since you'll probably only visit Seoul and big cities. The racism would be subtle commentary in Korean that you could easily brush off or weird staring on the trains

  • @usernotfound11111
    @usernotfound11111 3 роки тому +149

    The huge snorlax plushie tho 🥺🥺

  • @ugh495
    @ugh495 3 роки тому +157

    i really like your videos because often times foreign people who share the same opinions won’t speak in fear of what people who romanticized the country will say. i also like it’s from a perspective of someone who is Korean. 🥰❤️

    • @ugh495
      @ugh495 3 роки тому +9

      also we have a word for people who don’t like darker skin people within their race & it’s called colorism!

  • @itsbeencrazy
    @itsbeencrazy 3 роки тому +34

    I heard a lot of male artists saying....'I only like girls who knows cooking and also have take care of me' ....I also live in a patriarchal society...but nobody says that in television shows ....they will be ashamed to say that in public and will be judged by people

    • @bmona7550
      @bmona7550 2 роки тому +2

      Different culture. In some Asian countries the guys get coddled by their wives like a huge man baby

  • @pandagirl9109
    @pandagirl9109 3 роки тому +332

    I literally love your personnality, you seems so friendly ! I really like your video and listening to your point of view and advices

    • @KelseytheKorean
      @KelseytheKorean  3 роки тому +14

      Thank uuuu hehe

    • @codebrker24
      @codebrker24 3 роки тому +5

      I would love to hang with you girl. You take the "rose-colored glasses" and make them clear. Love your honesty. I am 52, African-American, and have seen it all and I have been through most of it in my own country, so it wouldn't be that much of a shock to me. I kill with kindness and yes, it does pay to be wealthy and that is anywhere. Chris Rock made the following observation: "You could be the richest black person and still nobody would want to be you." If you know that going in, then you take what there is and throw out the rest. I still want to visit SK, I just know what's what and keep it moving. If you don't want what I can offer, your loss, not mine~~🤣🤣

  • @catbus7824
    @catbus7824 2 роки тому +71

    The reality is that every country has it's own unique issues and benefits, you just have to pick which issues you can stand and which benefits are most important to you.

  • @preetmahal1369
    @preetmahal1369 2 роки тому +151

    In that case...
    We feel proud to be indian
    Because we welcome our guests with open arms..
    Whether never make them feel alone...
    Offer and help them.. coz they are away from there family and home..
    I hope it has to be everywhere... We should make this world a happy place...
    Everyone is beautiful in this world.
    Not for his or her color... Because of there heart /nature..
    Coz beauty dies with age... Good heart never...

    • @user-lk3ex3jq4m
      @user-lk3ex3jq4m 2 роки тому +14

      It's my dream to come India😢

    • @sulekhasharma6668
      @sulekhasharma6668 2 роки тому +13

      Yeah that's true but still there are some morons in every society to make them feel bad about their appearance. Actually what I love about my country India is that we love when foreigners visit our country and we love to show them how beautiful India is. They are willing to help you first then anyone else😂

    • @Sankishow-15
      @Sankishow-15 2 роки тому +6

      India is better than these racist nation

    • @shilpa1111
      @shilpa1111 2 роки тому +2

      Well said 😻

    • @daddychill6805
      @daddychill6805 2 роки тому +3

      @@user-lk3ex3jq4m your always welcomed to our country

  • @Lanylany24
    @Lanylany24 3 роки тому +289

    I won't stop saying this: It's sad how so many people and cultures think in that way about people who are different, but more than sad, it's stupid. The world is like a color palette, with light tones, medium, and dark ones, those tones also mix between. All those shades of color are part of the same palette and if a shade is missing, then the palette is incomplete. When those people and cultures understand that they'll figure out that the world is not all about them and their culture of environment (not talking only about korean people) thtings are gonna be different. This shit is about every culture, country and every etnicity. This is the real world, and regardless of that those with more economic power set the game "rules", we're all part of the same world and no culture or etnicity owns it.

    • @gema.7132
      @gema.7132 3 роки тому +8

      You are so right. People forget that we are all part of the same world, we're all people of one place. I will never understand the mindsets and prejudice of those who try to divide people and alienate us from one another.

    • @cassiadsouza709
      @cassiadsouza709 3 роки тому +6

      Preach sister. Honestly what's so complicated to just be kind and respect others cultures and traditions and accept the fact that we all are different with different experiences. It's so stupid when I see people being so ignorant makes me want to yank my brains out.

    • @anjalisawlani
      @anjalisawlani 3 роки тому +7

      there's the same color of blood and bones. just goes to prove that humans are superficial and will stay so cos they only judge the book by its cover 😐

    • @laur-unstagenameactuallyca1587
      @laur-unstagenameactuallyca1587 2 роки тому

      thank you

    • @love-dk7ii
      @love-dk7ii 2 роки тому

      So true

  • @Vainashell
    @Vainashell 3 роки тому +84

    I dislike the apathy for one another. Unless someone is in “your tribe” or “wealthy” or “a celebrity” “good looking” “equally apathetic.”

  • @AE3lytehaus
    @AE3lytehaus 3 роки тому +62

    My husband who’s Korean born & raised , said the same thing . He swears & promise that he would never raise our kids in Korea . He said that majority of Korean people in Korea , are deep down races & very judgmental. Like super judge-mental. And preferably ,stick to there own kind. Yep , you heard it to their own kind . Not all . But most .
    But the one thing he shared to me about , was how messed up their justice system are .
    I know… I live in the states & our justice system are not all that great either , but once it involves a child , a minor . There is no way @ it. All hell would break loose in & outside prison .
    Anyways , I remember him telling me how the laws over there are so f*#k up , especially for sexual assault victims . The justices for rape victims, are close to none, very minimum. For Young victims or old victims , the justices are not justified .
    For instance , there was a year where a little girl at the age or 9 0r 10 (can’t quite remember)
    who got sexual assaulted ,raped in a single toilet public restroom & I think it was at a underground subway station , but anyways whoever found her , said that what they saw in that restroom , the scene was so horrific and gory , that it was unimaginable . Something You would only see in a killing horror movie .
    Her inside were ripped ,inside out .
    (But Thank god she survived, ). This whole situation sicken me , where I 🤮. but The most upsetting part , that made me furious to my core is that the suspect , only got sentenced for just 10yrs in prison. Just 10yrs. . ! 😡
    By the time he gets out ,she’ll be like 18/19 or 20 (I think) . This MF/fers , will be out of jail walking freely on the street like nothing happened . And here this little girl, would have to face the probabilities & chances of running into this low life, no good ,psychotic , pathetic psychopath . Not only that ,because of the damaged that he caused to her organs , this girl won’t be able to conceive . Practically , he ruined her life and all he get is 10yrs. Oh !! This makes my inside boils 🤬🤯😡 . !

    • @allenk6373
      @allenk6373 2 роки тому +1

      then he has to renounce his korean citizenship
      becuase if he hates it so much he cant use privileges of it like traveling everywhere without visa
      you cant seat on 2 chairs you have to pick one

  • @Uzzlangified
    @Uzzlangified 2 роки тому +25

    Keep doing what you are doing. I feel like a lot of UA-camr foreigners (especially black people) enjoy Korean entertainment and really want to be accepted when they go to Korea. They really swallow a lot of bitter experiences and try to downplay the racism, but I know that it affects them. Thank you for this video. Keep doing what you are doing. Don't back down even with Korea's strong cult like cancel culture. 화이팅!!!

  • @alguemporai8180
    @alguemporai8180 3 роки тому +36

    Portuguese here. If my grandfather had that mindset, "give me water", my grandmother would through the water on him, and she was a stay-at-home mother. She only starts to work to pay for my mother's and uncle's university.

  • @ajkhan0
    @ajkhan0 3 роки тому +203

    I just saw Kelsey's video shared in an incel subreddit. Be safe Kelsey.

    • @KelseytheKorean
      @KelseytheKorean  3 роки тому +227

      i saw it lol. I tried to take their opinion seriously cuz I don't want to offend anyone obvs, but when the title of the reddit is 'she hates Korea and has a WHITE bf', I can't take them srly anymore lol. I will stay safe TYYYY

    • @urielescandon8036
      @urielescandon8036 3 роки тому +7

      wait what happened? 🥺🥺

    • @hhf8124
      @hhf8124 3 роки тому +14

      @@KelseytheKorean they just proved her point

    • @alanchen8272
      @alanchen8272 3 роки тому +26

      @@KelseytheKorean Many narrow-minded men think women of their race is surly belong them which is totally unreasonable.

    • @MC-ko2mx
      @MC-ko2mx 3 роки тому +26

      @@blizzardreed8121 They are incels.
      There is no reasoning with them.
      They ooze prejudice, and illogicality.
      They tend to come out of the woodwork when they feel their masculinity is being threatened.
      And yeah, somehow an Asian female dating a Caucasian male threatens their sense of self, and/ or view of the world.
      No idea how that works, but then I don't have a neckbeard LOL

  • @daeseongkim93
    @daeseongkim93 2 роки тому +67

    As Korean - American living in Korea now and traveling back and forth. You hit all the main points and issues especially on race. Friends who are even slightly darker are treated so different. Racism in the US is more overt but racism in Korea is more subvert. Its definitely an issue and I like how honest you were about it, not whitewashing that ideal image everyone only sees through kpop and kdrama media. There is still a racial hierarchy caste system that Korea Times / Herald recently wrote about how lighter the skin and Korean looking you are the higher you are on the caste - Koreans at the top, then Gyopo, Goryoin, Yanbian Koreans, North Korean Defectors and Zainichi at the second tier for being nominally Korean, then Chinese, Japanese (maybe Mongols and Vietnamese) on the third tier, then White on the fourth tier, and then Southeast Asian and South Asian on the fifth tier (and maybe black/other dark toned races)

    • @BiG-JuPO1O1
      @BiG-JuPO1O1 2 роки тому +1

      What about Pacific Islanders like Samoans?

    • @angel31356
      @angel31356 Рік тому

      That seems like a great article to read

    • @christyotoole7312
      @christyotoole7312 Рік тому

      Whites are alot lower on that list than she makes out

  • @csh
    @csh 3 роки тому +59

    Kelsey, as a Koreanist who has studied these phenomena your observations are completely spot on .

  • @the_princess_soko6299
    @the_princess_soko6299 3 роки тому +42

    I think that being a homogenous country doesn't still give many rights for anyone to be racist and I say this because I live in a country that has almost the same demographics as South Korea but many people here(Zimbabweans) are friendly and welcoming. Even if we (Zimbabweans) see white people or Asians, we don't mind them cause to us they are also people and we have other things to worry about instead of wondering why we have different features. However, this doesn't dissuade the fact that some of us look down or treat people who differ from us differently and in a bad or racist manner. With that said not every country is perfect but if everyone visits a country knowing the good and the bad you won't have high expectations and will not be disappointed if what you see and what you thought are parallel. Hope that the person who reads this comment is having a great day

    • @robguyton3577
      @robguyton3577 3 роки тому +1

      I find that Africans are among the most racist people on the planet. There is along trail of bloodshed to prove that.

    • @B2stly1
      @B2stly1 2 роки тому +6

      @@robguyton3577 what trail of bloodshed? If you are talking about conflict in Africa…that is heavily nuanced. Large parts of africa was colonized for centuries. Africa was split off by several European countries and in doing that the lines between tribes and peoples were thrown in disarray. People were forced to co-habitat with other peoples who spoke different languages and had conflicting cultures. An influx of European weaponry and then the sudden withdrawal of European peoples, leads directly to the issues you see on tv.
      African is a huge continent, and it is filled with countries that are as varied as France in relation to Finland. Sudan is different from Egypt. Nigeria is different from Kenya and Chad. Africans and African-Americans are different…several centuries different. Anyways…please excuse the dissertation. Like the amazing person making this video…everything is nuanced, and change sadly happens slowly and incrementally.

    • @bunnywavyxx9524
      @bunnywavyxx9524 2 роки тому +5

      @@robguyton3577 anyone with a little bit of knowledge of different cultures in the world including ones in Africa wouldn't agree with that

  • @demiballs2396
    @demiballs2396 Рік тому +5

    Thanks for sharing Kelsey. I've worked in 4 different countries - 6 years in S. Korea, and the people I've met/worked with there were *the* most judgmental people I've ever seen. Everyone cares so much about face value and other people's opinion about themselves, and yet they judge others ruthlessly from head to toe (literally and figuratively). It was a really toxic vicious cycle, and hearing it from a S. Korean native is really something else. The racism isn't even the worst thing there, and that means something!

  • @Vainashell
    @Vainashell 3 роки тому +70

    Traveling abroad and backpacking and visiting in laws abroad, I found Korean people in Korea to be the most distant and cold than any other country I have been to. And I am Korean! It was such a disappointment to come to terms with. My parents sent me on a tour all over the country as well as non tour traveling from city to suburb to rural areas. I wish it was not so, but that was my authentic experience.

    • @robguyton3577
      @robguyton3577 3 роки тому +3

      @ So Vain: The reason you found "people in Korea to be the most distant and cold," is because of culture shock (same in China and Japan). Anyone raised in a Western nation would have a similar experience. I myself was exposed to chilling arrogance from Africans who grew up under French culture.

    • @davidospina5216
      @davidospina5216 2 роки тому

      Hello So Vain how are you doing?

    • @trinnygirl1
      @trinnygirl1 2 роки тому +2

      Whaaa? More distant and cold than us English people?! Impossible… XD

    • @daeseongkim93
      @daeseongkim93 2 роки тому +1

      Probably going the wrong places although I have my qualms with my fellow Korean people, I've traveled all around the country and have seen hospitality and made nice small talk with many rural people in the villages and friends there. Maybe its because I was there for much longe studying and working therer versus just the tourist experience you had. But I'm sorry to hear your experiences are not what is actual Korean hospitality.

    • @bonsummers2657
      @bonsummers2657 2 роки тому

      And that's ok.

  • @aasdfggguyjgh8205
    @aasdfggguyjgh8205 3 роки тому +23

    I'm so proud of you for being genuine and not sugar coating things, I would help so many of us

  • @tessfromtheu.s256
    @tessfromtheu.s256 3 роки тому +33

    I'm really glad I never took a teaching job in Korea. I kept asking the hiring manager are you sure I will be treated fairly??? This video confirms, im glad I did not go.

    • @matrices3987
      @matrices3987 2 роки тому +6

      Even if you were treated fairly because you are part of a desired class you would probably be disgusted by the culture of extreme racism and vanity.

    • @tessfromtheu.s256
      @tessfromtheu.s256 2 роки тому +13

      @@matrices3987 I agree, the vanity is strange to me we all age I worry for those who are vane how will they handle the aging process. I'm very fortunate I had an intuition not to take the job offer I received from career. Just dealing with the colorism in south east asia was hard on me mentally I just uploaded a video about it on my channel 5 years after the fact!

    • @tessfromtheu.s256
      @tessfromtheu.s256 2 роки тому +2

      @MyLifeInJeju yeah I know I made a video on my channel about some of the crap I went through....

  • @HarajukuNingyou
    @HarajukuNingyou 3 роки тому +106

    I felt the population density more in Tokyo than in Seoul. When arriving in Seoul for a vacation after staying in Japan for almost a year, I thought there was so much more space in Seoul/ I felt more free.

    • @chaizan9733
      @chaizan9733 3 роки тому +30

      Obviously tokyo is like no other place in the world, its like another galaxy. It kind of reminds me of Hong Kong.

  • @simsalasophie
    @simsalasophie 3 роки тому +15

    i’m actually really grateful for all of the info !! just helps to not go into things blind and understand a culture in its entity, knowing the good and the bad and the in between :] i‘m from austria and there‘s lots of nice things to do and see here, but tho not the exact same, it is similarly conservative to south korea and therefore has lots of aspects which i think foreigners, especially people of color, should know before visiting the countryside or smaller cities at least..so thank youu for the content and effort !! 😙

  • @Alexandra-yd1iz
    @Alexandra-yd1iz 3 роки тому +226

    My Korean friend explained me many topics that you're talking about in this video and i was really shocked. I live in Africa and the first time I faced to racism was when i was looking for a Korean correspondent, i was hurting because, I'm a black person who lives in africa and people didn't want to talk with me because of that. They were full in prejudices since I mentioned where I live.
    Also i don't understand how is it bad to be feminist in Korea

    • @amishaakumar7863
      @amishaakumar7863 3 роки тому +22

      I'm not sure about this. I think it has to do with something that feminists are considered to be extremely radical and violent in South Korea. Though I'm not sure, so please just correct me if I'm wrong.

    • @micha-estla6860
      @micha-estla6860 3 роки тому

      So you’re african American living in Africa and getting discriminated against?

    • @Alexandra-yd1iz
      @Alexandra-yd1iz 3 роки тому +43

      @@micha-estla6860 did you read my comment? I said people were full of prejudices like I'm really poor and live in huts like in documentaries where you can see extremely poor people. Also I was weird that since I mentioned my origins people suddenly ghost me. I remember that guy who told me : oh I thought you were in USA, sorry I can't talk with you anymore 🙄...
      Please don't comment like African people can't suffer from racism... That's so stupid

    • @micha-estla6860
      @micha-estla6860 3 роки тому +6

      @@Alexandra-yd1iz no I’m literally African girl 😭 yeah I completely understand.

    • @MC-ko2mx
      @MC-ko2mx 3 роки тому +32

      There is a thriving men's rights movement in South Korea.
      The way these men react to any perceived encroachment of their "rights" can be explosive.
      A popular idol (Irene of Red Velvet) mentioning she was reading a feminist novel (Kim Ji-young, born in 1982) saw some male "fans" spewing hate comments, burning her merch, and swearing off her and Red Velvet forever.

  • @psychicpixie1676
    @psychicpixie1676 2 роки тому +5

    This video was so helpful for me. I’ve been planning to take my daughter to Korea when she’s older and knowing about the air pollution is so important for me as she has a heart condition. Thank you for making this video!

  • @AyshaRehmen
    @AyshaRehmen 3 роки тому +5

    Thank you so so much for sharing this Kelsey! I greatly appreciate your straightforwardness and objectivity. Thank you for giving your audience a full, wholistic view of Korea in a way no other channel is doing. Your maturity on addressing these topics is such an inspiration. It is such a joy to watch your videos, thank you!!

  • @veenakumar455
    @veenakumar455 3 роки тому +19

    I'm happy that you, as a Korean say all this because when i say that to my fellow, they said I'm racist and pessimistic about SK.. I hope people will open their eyes because even in variety shows, kpop industry and even drama you can see that... Unfortunately people are so blinded by kpop and kdrama, they can't see the reality behind it!

  • @clarinha4396
    @clarinha4396 3 роки тому +27

    Your channel is very cultural and its great and informative that you talk about that stuff in a straight and real way. Most info about korea ARE romaticized. And most coutries face those same social problems and mindset, but in different scales

  • @janellimarie
    @janellimarie 3 роки тому +28

    I live in Korea, my family has not experienced racism in a way that makes us feel unwelcome or unsafe. I just noticed some people avoid us and some merchants may make comments assuming we do not understand what they’re saying (we don’t).
    We actually feel safer here than in the US, to be honest.

    • @daeseongkim93
      @daeseongkim93 2 роки тому +21

      Given your assumed light complextion you're acceptable to many Koreans and will generally not face the subtle racism posited to those slightly darker Asians and black people.

  • @BlueBirdsFIy
    @BlueBirdsFIy 3 роки тому +28

    Although I had a blast in Korea when I lived there temporarily, I knew after my time there that I could NEVER live there permanently. Some of the reasons you mentioned were why. I felt severely out of place and boxed into a “foreign” corner there, no matter what I did to improve my language and understanding of the culture and history. And some of the men were extremely gross to my friends and I as well. And the obvious racism that is still a huge issue.

  • @brittanygoodrich9392
    @brittanygoodrich9392 2 роки тому +3

    Thank you for this! You seem like such a kind and caring woman. I love how these critiques of Korea came from a place of you thinking and hoping the country can and will do better in some areas. This is how we should talk about all countries because no place is all good or all bad. Each country just has positive points, challenges, and good people arising to meet the challenges.

  • @kimtaeri13
    @kimtaeri13 3 роки тому +79

    In regards to racism in Korea..I'm always surprised people are surprised it exists there..I mean I'm Māori/Korean/Japanese living in my birth country NZ and I encounter is regularly here so I fully expect to encounter it when I'm traveling. No country I've traveled to fully accepts foreigners and no country is perfect. Thanks for addressing a difficult subject Kelsey.

    • @l-kin3480
      @l-kin3480 2 роки тому +8

      I've seen East Asian women at KKK rallies in the USA. I'm also shocked people are surprised at racism existing there when the white men that go there say they're better at white supremacy than white women

    • @Dkkvl3
      @Dkkvl3 2 роки тому

      @@l-kin3480 that’s sick wtffff

    • @samaraisnt
      @samaraisnt Рік тому +1

      Literally. If you're mixed living in the West, we KNOW already, but then there are so many westerners who live in a bubble and have no idea, usually cause they are the dominant group and have no idea what that feels like...we done been knew.

    • @christyotoole7312
      @christyotoole7312 Рік тому

      Youre gonna be denied entry into pubs/clubs in korea though, thats not gonna happen to you in NZ

  • @erassakigawa7333
    @erassakigawa7333 3 роки тому +3

    As always, Kelsey laid it all. Thank you for always spitting your opinion no holds barred.

  • @Mpoindexter
    @Mpoindexter 3 роки тому +242

    I love your honesty. And I agree with everything you have said. I find a lot but not all Koreans to be very opinionated and small minded so PLEASE BE CAREFUL. What I find really irritated with Koreans . . They feel they can say anything to you no matter how cruel or rude but you’re not allow to say anything back. I was told that there is a law or rule where you can’t confront your attacker? Is that true?

    • @cabb1413
      @cabb1413 3 роки тому +15

      Yes!

    • @appleofhiseyes
      @appleofhiseyes 2 роки тому +47

      If it is true that is a global embarrassment. How can you go on mute when you are confronted. That’s ridiculous. Hope they will change that embarrassing law.

    • @gemmywhi3711
      @gemmywhi3711 2 роки тому +11

      With the viral issues where Korean condemn bella porch for her tattoo and other small issues, yes.. your claim are valid.

    • @Mpoindexter
      @Mpoindexter 2 роки тому +31

      @@gemmywhi3711 that’s crazy to me, people feel they have the right to say anything about what someone does with their body. I guess that is why I have a hard time understanding the fans of KPop. They want to dictated if the idols date, get tattoos or even go to a club. These idols are adults

    • @bmona7550
      @bmona7550 2 роки тому +16

      At this point I'd rather stick a go pro to me 24/7 if I ever visit S. Korea then. If anyone says sh*t to me it's recorded

  • @Mindfulnessdiaries
    @Mindfulnessdiaries 3 роки тому +13

    Thanks Kelsey for the informative video! You definitely nailed those ten points. I’m British Indian, I have visited Korea and loved many things about the country such as; the food, culture, landscapes etc. I had some understandings of the social issues in Korea before arriving so I was pretty well prepared. I did my research, learnt a lot about the culture and knew my way around Seoul (as I was travelling alone). There’s a lot of similarities in Indian and Korean culture, of course each country has its own social problems, but what annoys me is that people who watch Korean dramas or who obsess over Korean boys etc, they have no idea what it’s like living in a country they are fantasising about. Sure, I’d definitely recommend those wanting to go to Korea to travel and experience the way of life out there. But at the same time, doing your own research and educating yourself will only go along way, thanks to your video I really do hope more people would watch this. Would be interesting if you could make a video about women’s safety in Korea, when I was out there, I knew about the spy cameras in public spaces (toilettes, changing rooms) it was actually on BBC. I never faced any problems in Korean apart from a few people being rude to me in Busan (but I guess that’s just a few minority). I honestly had the best time out there and would definitely visit Korea again! Keep up the awesome work, looking forward to your next video. Love the transparency and your thoughts ❤️

  • @crimeselected
    @crimeselected 2 роки тому +3

    I love how honest and reflected you are. Keep it up 🙂

  • @ridgefrost
    @ridgefrost 2 роки тому +1

    i really appreciate finding this video and the way you delivered everything u had to say, it sounded like i was getting advice from a friend, usually youtubers sound overly pretentious and holding back to save face but you spoke the hard truth while still sounding respectful and reasonable...thanks.

  • @Dearest_Kenyetta
    @Dearest_Kenyetta 2 роки тому +2

    I appreciate this perspective. Thanks for sharing!

  • @leelo636
    @leelo636 2 роки тому +3

    thanks girl really helpful...love your honesty

  • @alevigirly19
    @alevigirly19 2 роки тому +16

    I love how honest and objective you are. I can’t stand the overly nationalistic ppl in my country who get immediately angry when someone calls out social problems. We need to talk about a problem to be able to solve it.

  • @lizzie404
    @lizzie404 2 роки тому

    You’re so real and honest for speaking the truth. Thank you for sharing these!

  • @shannonbrown5913
    @shannonbrown5913 2 роки тому

    Again, very very insightful. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and experiences.

  • @supriyaarya6538
    @supriyaarya6538 3 роки тому +69

    I always dreamed of visiting Korea making Korean friends(kdramainfluence) when I was researching I found out that Indian race is looked down there then I leave the idea of going there. Additionally I saw some Indian and Pakistani UA-camrs talking about the racist problem they faced in their Korean university. I felt really sad. Anyways South Korea do possess soft corner in many Indian hearts. Hope all will get along well on day.

    • @Uzzlangified
      @Uzzlangified 2 роки тому +10

      When I travelled to Korea the first time my Japanese friend and I ran into an Indian tourist. She was dressed on a salwar kameez and practically everywhere we went there were Korean people telling her that she looked beautiful. Lol. I was slightly jealous. I was only there for a week though.

    • @spillingthechai2156
      @spillingthechai2156 2 роки тому +4

      Dont be sad! Its fine to be worried about someone's negative reaction of you but trust me there are more good people in the world than bad. The bad ones are just more popular. Korea is a beautiful place and you shouldn't stop yourself from experiencing another culture due to racism.

    • @good-tn9sr
      @good-tn9sr 2 роки тому +2

      @@spillingthechai2156 yea but she could be emotionally scarred and it’s pretty ignorant to push her to go there when we know her situation.

    • @spillingthechai2156
      @spillingthechai2156 2 роки тому

      @@good-tn9sr I am not pushing her. I was just trying to give my "positive" takeaway out of a negative situation. She can choose to go or not. It's ignorant of you to use words that are irrelevant in this situation as she has not visited korea yet.

    • @good-tn9sr
      @good-tn9sr 2 роки тому +1

      @@spillingthechai2156 how is it ignorant? You just wanted to use the word ‘ignorant’ but used it wrong. Before you visit somewhere, you usually do research, which this person obviously did and she also got opinions from people who live there.

  • @MadeleineMedia16
    @MadeleineMedia16 3 роки тому +3

    You're so right. Things need to change in the country. But until then, we really appreciate your information and facts so we know beforehand 🥰

  • @abrasilerando-learningport6838
    @abrasilerando-learningport6838 2 роки тому +2

    I'm so glad that you were exposed to other cultures and were able to identify these problems. Thanks for sharing and open this discussion with us. Those are super important points to bring up.

  • @katarina1852
    @katarina1852 2 роки тому

    I love Kelsey and her videos. She is open minded, kind hearted, respectful, intelligent and beautiful. Thank you Kelsey! ❤️

  • @sunshiinee6755
    @sunshiinee6755 2 роки тому +6

    This was so interesting. Thank u very much for sharing an honest inside into the Korean culture.
    Greetings from Germany 😊

  • @Dreams_24
    @Dreams_24 3 роки тому +4

    Hello Kelsey, thank you so much for talking about it. It’s important to know this kind of topics about South Korea 🇰🇷 and have conscience 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 I’m watching from Spain 🇪🇸 Greetings!! 🙏🏼

  • @knightlyexperience6010
    @knightlyexperience6010 2 роки тому

    Im so glad i found this!!! I notice this issues on some KDRAMA but now listening to you sharing this and reading the comments validated it. Good to know just in case I visit.

  • @clau_goddess
    @clau_goddess 2 роки тому +1

    Love your openness, I’ve watched so many videos that are similar and they are a bit more superficial, your video got deep into the heart of the issues that you face in your country. I hope it helps people who just see the idols and dramas and think it’s like a utopia to live there, but when they move there they get discourage and dishearten.

  • @Hi_ImMirna
    @Hi_ImMirna 3 роки тому +4

    Thank you Kelsey!
    It's so refreshing seeing videos from a realist UA-camr.

  • @lunarskyboutique6230
    @lunarskyboutique6230 3 роки тому +6

    Hello 👋🏼 from Texas! New subscriber here 😄 I just bumped into your channel and started binge watching lol. I’ve never found a Korean UA-camr as open as you are with the social issues. No sugar coating just call it what it is 👏🏼 Love your content and can’t wait to catch up ! 💜

  • @stevedye373
    @stevedye373 3 роки тому +2

    Thank you so much for being Real and Honest!! ❤️

  • @MrRikkiRocket
    @MrRikkiRocket Рік тому

    Very well done - you are very candid with your thoughts. Much appreciated.

  • @punitha2222
    @punitha2222 3 роки тому +24

    So interesting & informative! Your channel is a must watch for people wanting to visit/shift to SK

  • @Kajal_InUSA
    @Kajal_InUSA 3 роки тому +4

    Your videos is really informative ❤️🦋

  • @aflopezgarcia
    @aflopezgarcia 2 роки тому +2

    Thank you for sharing, your insight and explanation about the issues are articulated in a way that is constructive. Good to hear that there is interest in changing some of these social issues.

  • @inesriahi5822
    @inesriahi5822 2 роки тому

    You have helped us by telling what we should be prepared for, your not discouraging anyone from going but helping us know what’s going to happen and what’s it like

  • @AlfonsoEspina
    @AlfonsoEspina 3 роки тому +136

    I've been here in South Korea for over a year now, and I remember my biggest cultural shock came this year when I saw a Pride flag in Gangnam. As a gay person in my 20s, it made me happy to see something I never expected in this side of the world. I'm Asian (Filipino born, Canadian raised) so a lot of the cultural things were already very familiar so it wasn't a lot to adapt to in that area. For instance, in Filipino we also give people titles. For example, our equivalent of 오빠/형 is "Kuya." We also have a formal language that is similar to 요 by adding "po," mostly at the end of our sentences.
    It's also interesting how one-sided the relationship between Philippines and S. Korea is. When I went to the Philippines, I got to see how big Korean pop culture is there. I felt more like a Canadian when I was in the Philippines, but here in S. Korea I feel both Canadian and Filipino. It's also sad to say but I have "light skin privilege" because people assume all Southeast Asians are tan. Because I'm very pale most people in Korea just assume I'm East Asian or Korean. So I don't stand out as much. When I visited the Philippines, people just assumed I was a foreigner, because of how i look, even though I was born there and can still speak the language.

    • @chrisc1184
      @chrisc1184 3 роки тому +4

      Progress is being made slowly. PPL should be able to live their lives without fear no matter what their sexual orientation is.

    • @cassiadsouza709
      @cassiadsouza709 3 роки тому +16

      Ok hear me out, I've been watching a lot of these Thai BL series lately and it has come to my notice that all the lead actors have pale white skin and the actors with a little tan/yellow complexion are given either "funny"/comedian roles or as a side/supporter character. The thing is, in Thailand you'll find people of various skin tones. Maybe not of different races but obviously not all are pale. I've just found one series wherein the lead character has a slightly darker complexion anyway my point being is, southeast asians don't accept their own people and put unrealistic beauty standards.. and this made me so sad cause they're influenced by the kpop/kdrama/kculture. I know there's a whole history behind white = beautiful but as of now, it's definitely cause of, if not Korean culture then I'd say the east asian culture. I wish we, all south asian and south east asian countries stopped putting unrealistic beauty standards on ourselves first and then only we can take the next step.

    • @chrisc1184
      @chrisc1184 3 роки тому +5

      @@cassiadsouza709 This is likely not true. Thailand has been a tourism hub for many Americans and Europeans for a very long time, especially for sex. There's a huge power dynamic there because of wealth disparity between Western countries and Thailand. As a result, there is a sort of white worship that happens. You always see Thai girls wanting a white man to marry.

    • @cassiadsouza709
      @cassiadsouza709 3 роки тому +8

      Also funny thing is, I come from India, and even though almost more than half of our population have dark/ brown complexion, having pale white skin is still considered being beautiful. This, however, ISN'T the current mindset of the newer gen but the older gen on the other hand... make me want to offer some of my brains to them. Sorry for the rant. I loved reading from your canadian/Filipino, having "light skin" privilege perspective haha

    • @cassiadsouza709
      @cassiadsouza709 3 роки тому +4

      @@chrisc1184 no yeah I totally agree with you that's why I said "whole history" also people working in fields doing hard labor were more likely to be tanned and hence people who didn't to hard labor were rich and fair. But as of recently, I don't know if you've noticed kpop and the kdrama community has been thriving in Thailand for the past few years

  • @cindygreenhill2935
    @cindygreenhill2935 3 роки тому +3

    Thank you for you honesty and frankness on difficult topics.

  • @Whoodee12
    @Whoodee12 2 роки тому

    You speak candidly in a very articulate way. Thanks for sharing. I found your comments very interesting.

  • @rucilatumitit4246
    @rucilatumitit4246 2 роки тому

    Thanks for being so honest. I find all your videos educational.

  • @tc9193
    @tc9193 2 роки тому +13

    This was really honest. I love being Korean but like all people groups, there are major cultural issues that need to be faced in order to change and improve.

  • @pauloromero5477
    @pauloromero5477 3 роки тому +13

    I would be totally in doubt of going somewhere when everything I hear is sugar-coated. Thank you for your honestly, it's well appreciated!

  • @claudiamonteagudo2217
    @claudiamonteagudo2217 2 роки тому

    Thanks for say all of that, it will allow me to better understand and to be mentally prepared for that.
    Knowing that there are all kind of people everywhere, it's nice to know that there are open minded people like you there.

  • @kaylennava9106
    @kaylennava9106 3 роки тому +2

    I’m very glad I found your channel. I’m glad you are not afraid to call out your country and speak the truth

  • @annap881
    @annap881 2 роки тому +3

    i actually spent a year in seoul as an exchange student last year in 2020 at yonsei univ (girl you went there too?? we could’ve met 😭) and everything you mentioned in these two videos - i literally felt like everything is true. my korean friends that i mostly hung out with, were 'exposed' outside of korea and either studied or lived there for a while, but i gotta say that i actually prefer hanging out with you guys more because i know we share a similar mindset, so in that aspect it was more comfortable for me. i did feel the social barrier between the locals and the foreigners, but it's quite understandable because of the mental barrier and the education system - as you also mentioned. i did have one of the best years of my life in korea, and had a great time while being there because of my circle of friends who i thankfully met through mentor’s club right before the pandemic took a turn. at the end of the day - every country, people, governments have its ups and downs and im sure korea will move towards a positive direction.

  • @amalachukwuasuzu1898
    @amalachukwuasuzu1898 3 роки тому +4

    Thank you for being so honest

  • @bloomkeen9059
    @bloomkeen9059 2 роки тому +2

    The first time I watched your video I was kinda shocked, cause NO ONE talks about this kind of things like you do. But I absolutely loveee your videos!!! It's so helpful! I still wanna move to korea, so your videos so educating and preparing

  • @purpleiw970
    @purpleiw970 3 роки тому +1

    It's so interesting! Thank you for all your videos! And you're sooo pretty😍😍

  • @ashella1859
    @ashella1859 3 роки тому +5

    loved this video ! also do you think you could do a video about your opinions on koreans beauty standards and idols idealization and treatment ? like how they can't really date publicly or how netizen have a lot of power in korean? I just find it shocking and facinating how fame is so different in korean vs US or just the rest of the world really ! Anyway thank you for another great video !

  • @sherlockday8691
    @sherlockday8691 2 роки тому +4

    I’m glad you made a video like this. The media really romanticizes Korea. When I visited Korea I had a wake up call and culture shock when I experienced a few of these things. At first I was very confused but now that I understand it doesn’t bother me any more. But my love for Korea is still strong and I was lucky to make Korean friends. But foreigners need to know this kind of stuff.

  • @extrakourtinary
    @extrakourtinary 3 роки тому

    Thank you so much! Korea is a beautiful country and I'm so happy certain initiatives are being brought to light to make it even better :)

  • @forthissh-3825
    @forthissh-3825 3 роки тому

    i had already thought about a lot things you’ve talked about in part one and two. this was still really interesting though👌🏽

  • @drunkonyj4730
    @drunkonyj4730 2 роки тому +11

    A lot of these social issues mentioned are apparent in Turkey as well. Even Turkish people living in Europe think this way, it’s about the mindset. So I hope the world changes for the better!

  • @aaa.a123
    @aaa.a123 3 роки тому +9

    I saw a video about a family who had quintuplets and the government did very little to support them, I was so shocked. Healthcare in Korea is so good, I'm astonished that childcare isn't the same.

  • @enchantrathomas7761
    @enchantrathomas7761 3 роки тому

    This is an interesting series to watch, I learn about the culture more, in the case I would ever like to visit. Thank you for your straight up honesty.

  • @blessparco
    @blessparco 2 роки тому

    I enjoyed this so much. Very enlightening.

  • @Mari-hb5do
    @Mari-hb5do 3 роки тому +11

    Honestly, I can relate to these experiences even though I have not visited Korea (I did a stopover due to a flight connection, though) and although some people at the airport were a bit stiff/unwelcoming in attitude overall, I've also found some pretty kind people as well both part of staff or/and passengers. Also, you can feel the pressure of beauty standards because women start immediately applying makeup or heading to the toilets for it as soon as you land, it's mind-boggling, frankly.
    Though, I still do want to visit. I have been able to meet a few kind people people happened to be Korean as well and I love the cultural and historical aspects of the Korean peninsula that it has made me consider doing doing exchange or a summer abroad for Postgraduate studies since it would allow me a better connection and understanding of the issues people deal with there (you can always read about them, but especially if you speak the language and witness it first-hand youd be able able access content that would otherwise not be as readily available due to communication obstacles and just opportunities, really and I love meeting people and connecting with them!).
    Regarding the issue of close-mindedness, I think that honestly, you should reach a point where you feel comfortable/confident enough in your own skin to not care about what others think. You will find good and bad apples everywhere, my home country is very conservative too (not as much as Korea, but it's a South-european one, where catholic faith is predominant and some people still have issues with LGBTQ, although they have legal rights to marry, adopt, acces gender reassignment/transition procedures, women are more well-protected, etc.).
    Also, I have lived in an East-Asian country before and still went about it my own way and at the end, people actually praised/ admired me for the confidence and freedom I appeared to exude. Of course, I have witnessed some instances of subtle racism like leaving seats unoccupied on trains due to being a foreigner (1st and 3rd person) or being of a different skin tone (in 3rd person) and the ages varied; I met lots of great people of all ages too and same has applied for the few Korean people I have had the pleasure of meeting with, they were interesting interactions.
    On the other hand I would certainly not want to live there (long-term/permanently) as it currently stands, concerning patriarchy related issues, it is something I take interest in considering the field of studies I'm in especially, along with other countries' social issues - such as the spycam epidemic problem, glass ceiling, (the lack of) LGBTQ rights/protections, mental health related issues, etc. So, it certainly won't deter me from visiting at least.
    At the end of the day, the ones whose voices don't matter simply are not something you should even concern yourself with / lose time on. Focus on the good, not on the bad. We should all love ourselves, engage in mutual, constant growth and heal our inner child💜 ❤

  • @wraspita
    @wraspita 2 роки тому +3

    Great video. Love the honesty.
    I am a Gyopo born to Korean parents overseas (LatAm) in my 30s. Born and raised in LatAm. I've worked in, Korean, LatinAmerican and International (European) companies from the Analyst up to the General Manager role (managing Koreans and Latinos at the same time).
    I agree with all of what you've said, especially when you mentioned that the social-cultural development [has-not-caught-up] with the turbo economic growth of the last 60-70 years. Though it is evolving for the better with those groups you mentioned as well, there is still a long way to go.
    While managing the local subsidiary of a Korean company, discussing with the Korean HQ was sometimes a pain as they do not understand how Latin America works and were inflexible, always thinking that the 'Korean way is the right way' and other reductionist-shortsighted-absurd views.
    On the other hand, LatAm is, for the most part and especially in the public sphere, quite slow and inefficient, sometimes inconsistent in their commercial promises, etc.
    On a more positive light (obviously this is a generalization from what I've personally experienced). Koreans are fast, efficient, resilient, when all is set up cohesively-properly. Latin Americans are holistic, better at caring for their employees and better at creating healthier company cultures.
    That said, no business (or general) culture is superior and all cultures can learn form each other. Koreans need to acknowledge and Practice by this to live happier, more fulfilling lives. In turn, happier, more satisfied people are more innovative and creative as well in the profesional realm which Koreans tend to emphasize so much (sometimes myself as well).

  • @alejag6614
    @alejag6614 2 роки тому +1

    Thank you so much for these two videos you made on this topic. You're right, people on social media loves to show the pretty side they want others to see, and it's good to see culture and other nice stuff. But issues like racism, education, economy and mindset are overlooked on most of the time, and are also very important for people that may want to go to Korea and then would experience such a shock because the country is not the dreamland everyone wanted it to be.