@Alther 16 May 2025 more from that month

The Fake Sheen of the Land of Ginseng: Korean Drama and a Different Reality As we all know, South Korea is now one of the most popular countries in the world. From K-pop to Korean dramas (drakor), almost everyone has heard and watched them. On screen, they look friendly, loving, and have high moral values that make us tear up. However, when it comes to real life in South Korea, the story is not always as beautiful. It's not just Southeast Asians in particular who feel this way, but also people from other countries like India, Bangladesh and even Africa. They often get mistreated by some Koreans - because of their skin color, national origin, or religion. Sometimes, just because they don't speak Korean fluently, they are already considered different, even underestimated. This does make us disappointed. Imagine, a country that is said to be advanced and modern, but there are still many people who have difficulty accepting diversity. In fact, the world is not just South Korea, and not only people who have a certain skin color or culture deserve respect. If we look at Korean dramas, they are all about love, sacrifice, and respecting others. But in reality? Sometimes at airports, workplaces, or in crowds, foreigners are met with attitudes that are far from friendly. Racism and discrimination are still real. Not that all Koreans are like that. Many are friendly, open, and respectful of differences. But, due to their homogenized culture and lack of education about diversity, many still find it difficult to accept foreigners. It's not about being academically smart or stupid, but about moral ignorance - the inability to see and appreciate the humanity of others. A country can be technologically and economically advanced, but if its heart and morals have not grown, then that progress feels empty. We need to be honest with ourselves and open our eyes. Don't just be lulled by beautiful drama and entertainment, but look at the real world with all its complexities. Because human values are not just about what is shown on the screen, but how we treat others in our daily lives. -==-