While I do not have an extensive knowledge on Korean culture, growing up in a Korean household has taught me a few things. I did not realize how many things in my life were impacted by my parents and family until I noticed the differences in my life to those of my friends'. You know you're Korean when:
1. You have a baby glamor shot.
Ninety-nine-percent of my Korean friends have one of these, typically taken on the 100th day of life.
2. You are served kimchi at every meal.
I wish I could say I liked it, but alas.
3. People tell you you have "pretty name," and try to pronounce it correctly.
"Is this right?"
4. You celebrate Korean New Year.
Every year you have two New Years, one on January 1, and one that typically falls on the Lunar New Year.
5. Your parents are forever trying to convince you to be a doctor or a lawyer.
I am in college and have declared a major, but I believe that in 20-years my parents will still be nagging me to change my career path.
6. Being on time is being 20-minutes late.
This one drove me crazy as a kid. My mother would always get ready 10-minutes before the event and say "it's fine, we don't have to be on time."
7. You only have one volume--loud.
Happy, sad, angry, you can only express it in what teachers call an "outside voice."
8. You're not allowed to wear shoes in the house.
You don't want to get the floor dirty!
9. People ask if you eat dogs.
No! No! No! A thousand times, no! Who could eat this cutie pie?
10. Your family doesn't watch sports, except the World Cup.
And when you do, the house either explodes in cheers or shouts.
11. You weren't allowed to go to sleepovers until you were 18.
Especially if your friend had siblings of the opposite gender.
12. People always compliment your hair and how it's so thick.
Why thank you, I grow it myself.
13. You know Shin ramen is the best ramen.
Hands down.
