Japanesse and Koren Cultures
One quote that stood out to me regarding Japanese culture is when Mozasu tells Sunja, "We Japanese are a very punctilious people, and we must do things properly" (Lee, 113). This quote highlights the importance of proper etiquette and respect for traditions in Japanese culture. In contrast, Korean culture places a strong emphasis on family values and the importance of maintaining strong familial bonds. One similarity between the two cultures is the importance placed on respect for elders. Both Japanese and Korean cultures value respect for elders and believe in the importance of maintaining strong family relationships. However, there are also significant differences between the two cultures, such as in their food, clothing, and lifestyle. Through her portrayals of these cultures, Lee is communicating the idea that there is beauty in diversity and that these differences should be celebrated rather than feared or discriminated against. She is also highlighting the importance of understanding and respecting different cultures, and the ways in which cultural differences can enrich our lives and broaden our perspectives.
Hi Griffin, good analysis on the difference between the etiquette and focus on family. I definitely think you can feel this throughout the story considering how much more homely Busan felt in comparison to Osaka.
ReplyDeleteHey Griffin, I appreciate you bringing up the differences in between the two cultures as well as explaining Lee's stance on them. I agree with you that Lee wants to show how these two cultures can coexist and provide comparative advantages to one another. One way I saw her doing this in the book was through Mosazu and Noa. While both Korean, they attempt to embody different cultures. Mosazu holds more true to his Korean side while Noa strives to conform to Japanese societal standards to a greater degree.
ReplyDeleteHi Griffin, I really liked how you pointed out the similarities between the cultures as it came to respecting elders. Throughout the novel, we are yet to meet someone who does not respect the elderly, such as Yangjin because it is so frowned on upon by society, even though she is a Korean woman. Also, the importance of family bonds is shown especially in Korean households as multiple immediate families are living together like Yoseb's family lives with Sunja's family.
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