I was first introduced to Korean culture in law school.  I taught legal writing to international students and got assigned quite a few from Korea (they told me never to refer to North or South, just one Korea).  Many were already professionals (established attorney, journalist, professor) there to earn a US law degree.  They introduced me to Korean food for the first time – kimbap.  I then learned about bibimbap, tteokbokki, soju, bulgogi, etc.  I even taught Sunday School for a Korean youth group.  I still remember how to sing “I love you (in the context of God)” in Korean.

Something I found interesting was that if I needed to distribute a key piece of course material, I only had to give it to one Korean student and soon everyone else, even those not in my section would get it.  Not so with the others, I would have to individually hand them out.

Korean church retreats and some pastors aside (including the nunchuck wielding one), I have deep respect and fondness for my Korean friends and associates.  Maybe it’s because I’m an outsider and not as subject to internal norms.  I did chuckle at some inter-Korean exchanges between friends.  My experience is mostly one of loyalty, respect, honor.

By providence, I had the opportunity to visit Seoul as part of a UN mission.  I met the Supreme Prosecutor, head of Korea’s research institute, and reconnected with several former students.  Visited a palace, the COEX center, repeatedly saw the statue of King Sejong.  Too little really in too short a time.

These days, I bring an egg from home to put in my soondubu, the soft tofu stew.  And watch amazing Korean food documentaries on Netflix.