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  • This week Jun and Daniel discuss sports culture in Korea and America, prompted by their recent experience attending a KBO (Korean Baseball Organization) playoff game together. Through comparing stadium experiences, fan behavior, player salaries, and cultural attitudes towards athletics, our hosts explore deeper societal differences between the two countries - from how Koreans view sports more as entertainment versus Americans' intense competitive spirit, to contrasting approaches to women's sports and mixed-gender athletics. What does wildcard, semi-playoffs, and playoffs mean in the context of Korean baseball? What is the topic of many of Daniel’s conversations with more Americanized Korean Koreans? Is there a difference between ‘hwaiting’ (화이팅) and ‘paiting’ (파이팅)?

    If you're interested in any of these topics or questions, tune in to hear Daniel and Jun discuss all this and more! Also in this episode, Daniel shares his hot takes on NBA star Steph Curry, and Jun reveals his childhood connection to the Samsung Lions baseball team.

    Note: This episode was recorded on October 24, 2024 and includes references to events that may feel anachronistic by the time of publication. Thank you for understanding!

    So Meta
    Inspiring stories of resilience: overcoming struggles, finding purpose, transforming lives

    Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify

    Support the show

    As a reminder, we record one episode a week in-person from Seoul, South Korea. We hope you enjoy listening to our conversation, and we're so excited to have you following us on this journey!

    Support us on Patreon:
    https://patreon.com/user?u=99211862

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    https://www.instagram.com/koreanamericanpodcast/
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    Questions/Comments/Feedback? Email us at: [email protected]

  • This week Jun and Daniel risk it all by using the charged 2024 US presidential election as a reason to compare and discuss the political systems and landscape in Korea and America. Our hosts attempt to discuss politics while remaining as neutral as possible, covering topics like the two-party system, campaign financing, big tech's political leanings, and the unique characteristics of conservative and progressive parties in both countries. They also explore the complex relationship between the US and Korea, from military presence to economic dependencies.

    If you're interested in learning about how the Electoral College works, why Korean presidents often end up in jail after their terms, what drives young Korean men to become more conservative, or how tech companies navigate political waters differently in Korea versus America, tune in to hear Daniel and Jun discuss all this and more! Also in this episode, Daniel shares his personal struggles with voting and political engagement, while Jun explains the intricacies of Korea's political history and its path to democracy.

    So Meta
    Inspiring stories of resilience: overcoming struggles, finding purpose, transforming lives

    Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify

    Support the show

    As a reminder, we record one episode a week in-person from Seoul, South Korea. We hope you enjoy listening to our conversation, and we're so excited to have you following us on this journey!

    Support us on Patreon:
    https://patreon.com/user?u=99211862

    Follow us on socials:
    https://www.instagram.com/koreanamericanpodcast/
    https://twitter.com/korampodcast
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    Questions/Comments/Feedback? Email us at: [email protected]

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  • This week Jun and Daniel continue their discussion of listener comments and reactions from social media, blogs, and other platforms. They explore the complex topic of Korean American identity, diving into experiences of discrimination, dual cultural belonging, and what it means to be a "third culture kid." The hosts also tackle comments about Korean driving habits, luxury goods consumption, and reactions to seeing their faces for the first time. Through these discussions, they reflect on deeper cultural nuances between Korea and America, from optimization mindsets to social status signaling.

    If you're interested in understanding the unique challenges and perspectives of Korean Americans, hearing thoughtful responses to listener feedback, or learning about Korean society's relationship with efficiency and luxury goods, tune in to hear Daniel and Jun discuss all this and more! This week Daniel also shares his healing moment from a supportive blog comment after a difficult experience, while Jun offers insights into Korean society's complex relationship with Korean Americans and challenges some common assumptions about cultural differences.

    So Meta
    Inspiring stories of resilience: overcoming struggles, finding purpose, transforming lives

    Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify

    Support the show

    As a reminder, we record one episode a week in-person from Seoul, South Korea. We hope you enjoy listening to our conversation, and we're so excited to have you following us on this journey!

    Support us on Patreon:
    https://patreon.com/user?u=99211862

    Follow us on socials:
    https://www.instagram.com/koreanamericanpodcast/
    https://twitter.com/korampodcast
    https://www.tiktok.com/@koreanamericanpodcast

    Questions/Comments/Feedback? Email us at: [email protected]

  • This week Jun and Daniel dedicate an episode to reading and responding to comments from their social media channels over the past few months. From inverter AC technology to birthing experiences to racism and cultural differences, our hosts dive deep into various topics that sparked discussion among their listeners. They explore Korean and American perspectives on everything from technical knowledge and education to small talk and societal values, while addressing misconceptions and clarifying their intentions behind certain statements.

    If you're interested in hearing thoughtful responses to viewer feedback on topics like Korea's relationship with knowledge and education, different cultural approaches to small talk, perspectives on racism across cultures, or how living in Korea has shifted Daniel's viewpoint when reading comments, tune in to hear Daniel and Jun discuss all this and more! Also in this episode, the hosts share insights about the challenges of engaging with social media comments, debate the nuances of cultural sensitivity, and openly discuss their evolving understanding of complex societal issues.

    So Meta
    Inspiring stories of resilience: overcoming struggles, finding purpose, transforming lives

    Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify

    Support the show

    As a reminder, we record one episode a week in-person from Seoul, South Korea. We hope you enjoy listening to our conversation, and we're so excited to have you following us on this journey!

    Support us on Patreon:
    https://patreon.com/user?u=99211862

    Follow us on socials:
    https://www.instagram.com/koreanamericanpodcast/
    https://twitter.com/korampodcast
    https://www.tiktok.com/@koreanamericanpodcast

    Questions/Comments/Feedback? Email us at: [email protected]

  • This week Jun and Daniel dive into famous food debates and preferences that divide both Korean and American society. Starting from whether you dip (jjik) or boo (pour) the sauce with sweet and sour pork (tangsuyuk), our hosts explore the many famous food debates that Koreans have, including kimchi jiggae versus doenjang jjigae, mul naengmyun vs bibimnaengmyun, and many more. They then shift to some American ones, such as when the milk should go into cereal or how you cut a sandwich, and discuss the equivalencies between the two countries. The discussion also touches lightly on regional differences in cooking. Listen in as our hosts arrive at a very interesting conclusion about how Koreans lean more towards framing food preferences between commonly competing dishes as part of their personal identity, while Americans lean towards debating the "correct" way to prepare a single dish.

    If you're interested in learning about any of these topics, tune in to hear Daniel and Jun discuss all this and more! Also in this episode, Daniel shows off his new Korean hairstyle, Jun reveals his sophisticated food palate, and both hosts weigh in on whether they are on Team Mint Chocolate– or not.

    So Meta
    Inspiring stories of resilience: overcoming struggles, finding purpose, transforming lives

    Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify

    Support the show

    As a reminder, we record one episode a week in-person from Seoul, South Korea. We hope you enjoy listening to our conversation, and we're so excited to have you following us on this journey!

    Support us on Patreon:
    https://patreon.com/user?u=99211862

    Follow us on socials:
    https://www.instagram.com/koreanamericanpodcast/
    https://twitter.com/korampodcast
    https://www.tiktok.com/@koreanamericanpodcast

    Questions/Comments/Feedback? Email us at: [email protected]

  • This week Jun and Daniel dive into the world of MBTI (Myers-Briggs Type Indicator) and its popularity in Korea. They explore why MBTI has become such a cultural phenomenon in Korea, from its use in social settings to its integration into various aspects of daily life. The conversation then expands to include the Enneagram personality system, which Daniel is particularly passionate about. In continuing the theme of getting to know our hosts more personally, Jun and Daniel also answer questions from their listeners in a recent AMA (Ask Me Anything) poll.

    If you're interested in understanding the cultural significance of MBTI in Korea, how it has replaced blood types, or simply want to learn more about our hosts' personal experiences and reflections, tune in to hear Daniel and Jun discuss all this and more! This episode also includes insights into Korean work culture, the hosts' favorite episodes so far, and their thoughts on potentially doing a live broadcast in the future.

    So Meta
    Inspiring stories of resilience: overcoming struggles, finding purpose, transforming lives

    Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify

    Support the show

    As a reminder, we record one episode a week in-person from Seoul, South Korea. We hope you enjoy listening to our conversation, and we're so excited to have you following us on this journey!

    Support us on Patreon:
    https://patreon.com/user?u=99211862

    Follow us on socials:
    https://www.instagram.com/koreanamericanpodcast/
    https://twitter.com/korampodcast
    https://www.tiktok.com/@koreanamericanpodcast

    Questions/Comments/Feedback? Email us at: [email protected]

  • This week Jun and Daniel discuss some major news headlines from August and September 2024 in Korea. They cover topics including a pilot program bringing Filipino nannies to Korea, the ongoing doctor strike, and a deepfake porn scandal. The hosts explore the cultural context and public reactions to these issues, touching on themes of immigration, online privacy, and healthcare policy. They also discuss Korean Air's decision to stop serving instant ramen on flights.

    If you're interested in learning more about current events in Korea and how they reflect broader societal trends, tune in to hear Daniel and Jun's perspectives on these stories. This episode provides insights into Korea's approach to foreign workers, tensions in the medical system, concerns about technology and privacy, and even airline food preferences. The hosts balance serious policy discussions with more lighthearted cultural observations.

    So Meta
    Inspiring stories of resilience: overcoming struggles, finding purpose, transforming lives

    Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify

    Support the show

    As a reminder, we record one episode a week in-person from Seoul, South Korea. We hope you enjoy listening to our conversation, and we're so excited to have you following us on this journey!

    Support us on Patreon:
    https://patreon.com/user?u=99211862

    Follow us on socials:
    https://www.instagram.com/koreanamericanpodcast/
    https://twitter.com/korampodcast
    https://www.tiktok.com/@koreanamericanpodcast

    Questions/Comments/Feedback? Email us at: [email protected]

  • This week Jun and Daniel review the popular Korean Netflix cooking competition show "Culinary Class Wars" (흑백요리사). They discuss the show's format, cultural aspects, and why it has become such a sensation in Korea. Our hosts compare fine dining experiences in Korea vs the US, debate the merits of peelers vs knives in the kitchen, and explore concepts of teamwork and hierarchy as depicted on the show.

    If you're interested in learning more about Korean cooking shows, food culture, or how competition formats differ between Korea and the US, tune in to hear Daniel and Jun's entertaining and insightful conversation! This episode also touches on topics like vegetarianism in Korea, the rise of fancy restaurants, and our hosts' personal dining preferences and experiences.

    So Meta
    Inspiring stories of resilience: overcoming struggles, finding purpose, transforming lives

    Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify

    Support the show

    As a reminder, we record one episode a week in-person from Seoul, South Korea. We hope you enjoy listening to our conversation, and we're so excited to have you following us on this journey!

    Support us on Patreon:
    https://patreon.com/user?u=99211862

    Follow us on socials:
    https://www.instagram.com/koreanamericanpodcast/
    https://twitter.com/korampodcast
    https://www.tiktok.com/@koreanamericanpodcast

    Questions/Comments/Feedback? Email us at: [email protected]

  • This week Jun and Daniel explore the world of small talk through conversations with random strangers on the Connecting app. Our hosts discuss cultural differences in social interactions between Korea and America, practice their own small talk skills, and gather interesting perspectives from their chat partners. Topics range from stereotypes Koreans and Americans have of each other, to experiences as Korean. Americans, to views on Korea's beauty and fashion culture. Along the way, Jun and Daniel reflect on the value of casual conversation, their own comfort levels with small talk, and how it differs between the two countries.

    If you're interested in learning more about small talk culture in Korea vs America, hearing perspectives from Korean Americans living abroad, or just enjoying some entertaining chats with strangers, tune in to hear Daniel and Jun discuss all this and more! Our hosts share some personal stories and insights as well, making for a fun and wide-ranging exploration of cross-cultural communication.

    Disclaimer: This episode is sponsored by Connecting, the app used for the conversations in this episode.

    #connecting #커넥팅 #korean #american #koreanamerican #podcast #koreanculture

    So Meta
    Inspiring stories of resilience: overcoming struggles, finding purpose, transforming lives

    Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify

    Support the show

    As a reminder, we record one episode a week in-person from Seoul, South Korea. We hope you enjoy listening to our conversation, and we're so excited to have you following us on this journey!

    Support us on Patreon:
    https://patreon.com/user?u=99211862

    Follow us on socials:
    https://www.instagram.com/koreanamericanpodcast/
    https://twitter.com/korampodcast
    https://www.tiktok.com/@koreanamericanpodcast

    Questions/Comments/Feedback? Email us at: [email protected]

  • This week Jun and Daniel dive into the world of Korean names and family genealogy. Listen as our hosts explore the cultural significance, history, and trends around names in Korea compared to America. What are the most common Korean last names and how did they originate? How do Koreans choose names for their children and what do the characters mean? What are some generational trends in Korean names? How do nicknames differ between Korea and the US? What is a jokbo (족보) and why is it romanticized by Korean Americans? How do Koreans view changing their names? From clan names to middle names to naming pets, our hosts cover a wide range of naming customs and traditions.

    If you're interested in any of these questions, tune in to hear Daniel and Jun discuss all this and more! Also in this episode, Daniel reveals his Kim clan connection to North Korea's leaders, Jun explains a Gyeongsang-do nickname tradition, and both hosts attempt to figure out if they are somehow related.

    So Meta
    Inspiring stories of resilience: overcoming struggles, finding purpose, transforming lives

    Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify

    Support the show

    As a reminder, we record one episode a week in-person from Seoul, South Korea. We hope you enjoy listening to our conversation, and we're so excited to have you following us on this journey!

    Support us on Patreon:
    https://patreon.com/user?u=99211862

    Follow us on socials:
    https://www.instagram.com/koreanamericanpodcast/
    https://twitter.com/korampodcast
    https://www.tiktok.com/@koreanamericanpodcast

    Questions/Comments/Feedback? Email us at: [email protected]

  • This week Jun and Daniel dedicate another episode to run through Daniel’s constantly growing and evolving list of notes on daily life in Korea. Our hosts tackle a 짬뽕 (hodgepodge) of topics ranging from apartment community life to driving habits and hierarchy-based social expectations. What does Daniel find depressing about his apartment living situation? Which part of the metric system is Daniel getting used to, and which part can’t he really transition over? What are some eating hacks Daniel’s learned over the years that most Koreans have known their whole lives? Why does Daniel struggle with the air conditioning in his apartment?

    If you're interested in these questions and more, tune in to hear Daniel and Jun discuss all this and more! Also in this episode, Daniel shares his encounter with a surprisingly grumpy grandma (or “hal-meanie”), Jun goes off on the Imperial System, and both hosts celebrate some major milestones for the podcast.

    So Meta
    Inspiring stories of resilience: overcoming struggles, finding purpose, transforming lives

    Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify

    Support the show

    As a reminder, we record one episode a week in-person from Seoul, South Korea. We hope you enjoy listening to our conversation, and we're so excited to have you following us on this journey!

    Support us on Patreon:
    https://patreon.com/user?u=99211862

    Follow us on socials:
    https://www.instagram.com/koreanamericanpodcast/
    https://twitter.com/korampodcast
    https://www.tiktok.com/@koreanamericanpodcast

    Questions/Comments/Feedback? Email us at: [email protected]

  • This week Jun and Daniel dive into the latest trends sweeping across Korea. From viral language catchphrases to K-pop sensations, luxury athleisure wear to running crews, and electric vehicles to trendy desserts, our hosts explore what's hot in various aspects of Korean society. They discuss the origins of these trends, debate their staying power, and share personal experiences with some of the popular phenomena.

    If you're interested in learning why "Lucky Vicky" is suddenly everywhere, how a New Jeans performance captivated Japan, what's driving the electric vehicle debate in Korea, or why everyone's talking about "Dubai chocolate," tune in to hear Daniel and Jun discuss all this and more! Also in this episode, the hosts conduct a live taste test of trending snacks, debate the merits of various fads, and ponder the rapid pace of trend cycles in Korea.

    So Meta
    Inspiring stories of resilience: overcoming struggles, finding purpose, transforming lives

    Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify

    Support the show

    As a reminder, we record one episode a week in-person from Seoul, South Korea. We hope you enjoy listening to our conversation, and we're so excited to have you following us on this journey!

    Support us on Patreon:
    https://patreon.com/user?u=99211862

    Follow us on socials:
    https://www.instagram.com/koreanamericanpodcast/
    https://twitter.com/korampodcast
    https://www.tiktok.com/@koreanamericanpodcast

    Questions/Comments/Feedback? Email us at: [email protected]

  • This week Jun and Daniel discuss the 2024 Paris Olympics. They cover highlights from Korea's performance, memorable moments, and reflect on famous Korean Olympians throughout history. The hosts also explore cultural differences in how Korea and America approach the Olympics, from medal counting methods to how athletes are celebrated.

    If you're interested in hearing about breakout stars like Korea's "air pistol meme girl", controversial moments involving Korean athletes, or the hosts' personal Olympic memories, tune in to hear Daniel and Jun discuss all this and more! This episode also touches on topics like military service exemptions for medalists, compensation for Olympic success, and how Olympic popularity has changed over time in Korea.

    As a reminder, we record one episode a week in-person from Seoul, South Korea. We hope you enjoy listening to our conversation, and we're so excited to have you following us on this journey!

    So Meta
    Inspiring stories of resilience: overcoming struggles, finding purpose, transforming lives

    Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify

    Support the show

    As a reminder, we record one episode a week in-person from Seoul, South Korea. We hope you enjoy listening to our conversation, and we're so excited to have you following us on this journey!

    Support us on Patreon:
    https://patreon.com/user?u=99211862

    Follow us on socials:
    https://www.instagram.com/koreanamericanpodcast/
    https://twitter.com/korampodcast
    https://www.tiktok.com/@koreanamericanpodcast

    Questions/Comments/Feedback? Email us at: [email protected]

  • This week Jun and Daniel discuss Korean shamanism and occult practices through a review of the popular Korean movie "Exhuma" (or "파묘" in Korean). How integrated is shamanism in modern Korean society? What are some common superstitions and spiritual practices in Korea? How does the movie portray traditional Korean beliefs and anti-Japanese sentiment? What aspects of the film might be lost on non-Korean viewers?

    If you're interested in learning more about Korean spiritual beliefs, fortune telling practices, and how they compare to Western perspectives, tune in to hear Daniel and Jun discuss all this and more! This week they also touch on topics like feng shui, Korean naming customs, and cultural differences in seeking guidance for major life decisions.

    As a reminder, we record one episode a week from Seoul, South Korea. We hope you enjoy listening to our conversation, and we're so excited to have you following us on this journey!

    So Meta
    Inspiring stories of resilience: overcoming struggles, finding purpose, transforming lives

    Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify

    Support the show

    As a reminder, we record one episode a week in-person from Seoul, South Korea. We hope you enjoy listening to our conversation, and we're so excited to have you following us on this journey!

    Support us on Patreon:
    https://patreon.com/user?u=99211862

    Follow us on socials:
    https://www.instagram.com/koreanamericanpodcast/
    https://twitter.com/korampodcast
    https://www.tiktok.com/@koreanamericanpodcast

    Questions/Comments/Feedback? Email us at: [email protected]

  • This week Jun and Daniel discuss some notable news headlines from July 2024. What led to the scandal surrounding popular mukbang YouTuber Tzuyang, and what does it reveal about Korea's entertainment industry and cyber bullying culture? How significant is the recent Supreme Court ruling recognizing same-sex couples' rights, and what might it signal for LGBTQ+ progress in Korea? Are Gen Z workers really more outspoken about workplace issues, and how does this reflect changing work culture across generations? What are "cyber wreckers," and how do they impact Korean online culture?

    If you're interested in any of these questions, tune in to hear Daniel and Jun discuss all this and more! Daniel also shares insights from his recent U.S. trip, while Jun offers perspectives on evolving Korean societal norms. The hosts explore how traditionally conservative issues are changing in modern Korea, examining cultural contrasts and sharing personal perspectives on these timely topics.

    As a reminder, we record one episode a week in-person from Seoul, South Korea. We hope you enjoy listening to our conversation, and we're so excited to have you following us on this journey!

    So Meta
    Inspiring stories of resilience: overcoming struggles, finding purpose, transforming lives

    Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify

    Support the show

    As a reminder, we record one episode a week in-person from Seoul, South Korea. We hope you enjoy listening to our conversation, and we're so excited to have you following us on this journey!

    Support us on Patreon:
    https://patreon.com/user?u=99211862

    Follow us on socials:
    https://www.instagram.com/koreanamericanpodcast/
    https://twitter.com/korampodcast
    https://www.tiktok.com/@koreanamericanpodcast

    Questions/Comments/Feedback? Email us at: [email protected]

  • This week Daniel shares his reflections after spending a month back in the United States with his family. Listen in as Daniel and Jun discuss the stark differences between life in Korea versus America, from diverse communities to driving habits to portion sizes. What aspects of American life did Daniel miss most while living in Korea? How did his perspective on the US change after living abroad? What cultural adjustments did he have to make going back? The hosts also touch on some major US news events from July 2024, talk about the amazing-ness of Italian ice, and discuss why Southern California might be the best place to live in.

    If you're interested in hearing a Korean American's evolving views on American culture after living in Korea, tune in for Daniel and Jun's entertaining and insightful conversation! This episode also includes updates on the podcast's growth, fan support, and chart rankings.

    So Meta
    Inspiring stories of resilience: overcoming struggles, finding purpose, transforming lives

    Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify

    Support the show

    As a reminder, we record one episode a week in-person from Seoul, South Korea. We hope you enjoy listening to our conversation, and we're so excited to have you following us on this journey!

    Support us on Patreon:
    https://patreon.com/user?u=99211862

    Follow us on socials:
    https://www.instagram.com/koreanamericanpodcast/
    https://twitter.com/korampodcast
    https://www.tiktok.com/@koreanamericanpodcast

    Questions/Comments/Feedback? Email us at: [email protected]

  • This week Jun and Daniel are joined by special guests Young and Grace to discuss parenting in Korea vs. America. How does the Korean postpartum care system differ from the U.S.? What level of independence do Korean parents give their children compared to American parents? How do discipline styles vary between the cultures? What is the hagwon system and why is it so prevalent in Korea? How do definitions of success for children differ?

    If you're interested in any of these questions, tune in to hear Daniel, Jun, Young and Grace discuss all this and more! Young and Grace share their experiences raising kids in Korea as Korean Americans, aiming to blend the best of both cultures. The group also touches on topics like the pressure of Korea's competitive education system, cultural expectations around academics, and defining success beyond just finances.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

    Guest Bios
    Young was born in Korea and immigrated to the US in 4th grade. He studied architecture in college and recently built his dream house in the countryside (시골). He enjoys spending time with his family traveling, doing outdoor activities and exploring nature.

    Grace is a Korean-American mom of three living in Korea and shares her experience on her podcast “Motherhood in the Motherland”.

    With a background in psychology and counseling, she loves talking all things parenting, education and culture.

    Links
    https://podcasts.apple.com/kr/podcast/motherhood-in-the-motherland/id1701445472

    So Meta
    Inspiring stories of resilience: overcoming struggles, finding purpose, transforming lives

    Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify

    Support the show

    As a reminder, we record one episode a week in-person from Seoul, South Korea. We hope you enjoy listening to our conversation, and we're so excited to have you following us on this journey!

    Support us on Patreon:
    https://patreon.com/user?u=99211862

    Follow us on socials:
    https://www.instagram.com/koreanamericanpodcast/
    https://twitter.com/korampodcast
    https://www.tiktok.com/@koreanamericanpodcast

    Questions/Comments/Feedback? Email us at: [email protected]

  • This week Jun and Daniel discuss E-sports and gaming culture with a friend of the show and professional gaming coach, Wizard Hyeong. Korea is famously known as the birthplace of Esports, where the Korean e-Sports Association (KeSPA), an arm of the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, was founded in 2000 to promote and regulate esports in the country. From PC Bangs to TV channels dedicated to showing games such as Starcraft, gaming culture has been and continues to be a deeply integral part of Korean society. Who are some of the most popular professional gamers in Korea, that even grandmothers would know? What does a professional gaming coach do? How much can professional gamers make? How long do most professional gamers’ careers last, and what do they do after retiring? How does professional gaming culture differ between America and Korea? What role does PC Bangs play in Korean society? As a professional coach, what are the three swamps that gamers fall into, and how can they get out of them? How does Korea’s obsession with fairness play out in the gaming world? What does the future of Esports hold, from the perspective of an insider in the industry? How do Esports in Korea compare to regular athletic sports in America? How does Korea’s approach to practice and improvement differ from America?

    If you're interested in any of these questions, tune in to hear Daniel and Jun discuss all this and more! Also in this episode, Daniel shares the highlight of his own gaming career, Jun plays the role of a casual non-gamer, and both are surprised by how many parallels can be drawn from gaming culture to Korea’s overall culture and life in general.

    Guest Bios
    Born and raised in Korea, moved to USA in his early 20s to pursue an esports career. Officially immigrated and has been living in America. Still working in esports.

    Links
    https://www.youtube.com/@wizardhyeong

    So Meta
    Inspiring stories of resilience: overcoming struggles, finding purpose, transforming lives

    Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify

    Support the show

    As a reminder, we record one episode a week in-person from Seoul, South Korea. We hope you enjoy listening to our conversation, and we're so excited to have you following us on this journey!

    Support us on Patreon:
    https://patreon.com/user?u=99211862

    Follow us on socials:
    https://www.instagram.com/koreanamericanpodcast/
    https://twitter.com/korampodcast
    https://www.tiktok.com/@koreanamericanpodcast

    Questions/Comments/Feedback? Email us at: [email protected]

  • This week Jun and Daniel experiment with a new format in which they read and respond to various channels of fan and follower engagement. For the inaugural episode, our hosts look at comments left on their Instagram Reels and YouTube media. After reading and discussing some of the most popular comments, our hosts then give each a rating from mild, to spicy, to incendiary, and discuss. How can our Korean American host have such poor Korean language skills, and is this common for so-called gyopos? What has driven the podcast’s growth, and how do our hosts feel about it? What are our hosts’ actual experiences with not only wearing shoes inside the house, but on the bed? For some of our listeners who lived abroad, who do our hosts remind them of? What is a surprising but apt comparison made between washing dishes and taking a bath? What do all Koreans know about various ramen brands? What mentality in Korean can be applied across a wide swath of events, ranging from weddings to birthday parties? What does one person see in Korean American men’s facial expressions that our American host finds surprising? What unhealthy food in America doesn’t have the same reputation in Korea?

    If you're interested in any of these questions, tune in to hear Daniel and Jun discuss all this and more! Also in this episode, Daniel vulnerably and painfully reads in Korean, and Jun reveals his moderation practices. This episode is only made possible due to the great engagement from our followers, so as always, thank you all for your support and please continue to like, follow, and comment!

    So Meta
    Inspiring stories of resilience: overcoming struggles, finding purpose, transforming lives

    Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify

    Support the show

    As a reminder, we record one episode a week in-person from Seoul, South Korea. We hope you enjoy listening to our conversation, and we're so excited to have you following us on this journey!

    Support us on Patreon:
    https://patreon.com/user?u=99211862

    Follow us on socials:
    https://www.instagram.com/koreanamericanpodcast/
    https://twitter.com/korampodcast
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  • This week Jun and Daniel take on another so-called pillar of Korean culture and society: han. How does Jun define han, and what issue does he take with the definition from its Wikipedia page? What was behind Jun’s initial reluctance to dedicate an episode to this topic? What are some of our hosts’ personal examples of han? What does it mean to have han at a national level? What are some other countries or people groups that share something in common with Korea that may result in similar han-like sentiments? What makes Korea uniquely suited to embody han? What does arirang have to do with han? What is the Korean word for ferment, and how is it beautifully connected to the concept of han? How does Daniel believe his experience of han compares to that of his parents or the older Korean population? What is something about the Korean language that Jun believes contributes to the feeling of han? What classic Korean film from 1993 was all about han, and was the first movie to surpass 1 million viewers in Korea?

    If you're interested in any of these questions, tune in to hear Daniel and Jun discuss all this and more! Also in this episode, Jun and Daniel nearly reveal their MBTIs, and dedicate more time than usual to the nuances of various English words.

    Links

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Han_(cultural) (Han Wikipedia article)

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k-n3W8OXaY8 (서편제 Movie)

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    As a reminder, we record one episode a week in-person from Seoul, South Korea. We hope you enjoy listening to our conversation, and we're so excited to have you following us on this journey!

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