If you were to look around New Ulm, you likely wouldn’t find much in the way of ethnic diversity. A majority of the population are caucasian with some german or Norwegian heritage. It makes most of the community familiar with German culture, but those few who aren’t native to the area feel more than a little out of place. I am one of those few.
I was born in a town in South Korea that few have ever heard of and even fewer that can pronounce the name. Due to growing up in such a different environment from New Ulm, my family decided it would be vital to keep a close touch with my own culture. The main thing I noticed was the large difference between what I grew up experiencing and what I could’ve been. In this segment, we will be diving into the depths of the other cultures of New Ulm’s population.

The biggest difference in culture from here and there would probably be family life. In Korea, it’s very important to respect your elders. It’s very rude to even call your older siblings by name. Instead, in the Korean language, there are words specifically for referring to older siblings, such as Noona (older sister) and Hyung (older brother). South Koreans also should bow in front of older members of the community to show respect.

The schooling is another huge difference. Since I am very interested in teaching English in South Korea when I grow up, it is fascinating to me. Elementary and Secondary schooling is very similar to that in America. They would begin at 8 am and continue until 3 pm. However, high school is a bit different. High school students in Korea begin school at 6 am and are not allowed to leave until 6 pm. Could you imagine a 12-hour day of school?

The food is also very interesting. Anyone who knows me knows I am the pickiest eater ever. Korean food, however, is one thing I’m willing to try. Korean food is made with spices and long fermentation. Kimchi is probably one of their most famous side dishes, but proper kimchi is fermented underground for many years. Many westerners don’t like kimchi due to the very strong garlic taste. South Koreans also aren’t particularly fond of sweet foods. The main dessert would be Patbingsu or Korean shaved ice.

Pop culture is probably the most interesting thing, though. I, for one, am in love with K-dramas and K-pop. For anyone who hasn’t seen any Korean shows, imagine a soap opera, but more exaggerated. Everything is overwhelmingly dramatic and intense. The plot lines are even weirder than anyone could imagine! However, that’s what makes them so addicting; you never know what will happen next! The music is also very extravagant. Unlike American music, K-pop isn’t really categorized into genres. They have some genres, but not nearly as many as there are in America. Some are rap/hip-hop, pop, trot, and soul music. Hip-hop is huge among K-pop boy bands, mainly because it’s the easiest music to produce choreography for. Choreographed dances are a vital thing in entertainment, which means bands spend hours each day practicing. Trot music is an older version of music which is defined by a distinctive background rhythm. The most interesting thing about their music, in my opinion, would have to be their music videos. The amount of money and time it takes to film them are insane. Many bands go all-out in hopes that it raises sales rates and especially overseas rates.
As you can probably tell, Korea and America are two completely different places. I’m lucky enough to be able to go back for a two-week vacation soon and am very excited to witness this for myself.

.