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<\/a>\u201cI figured out there were many people who had no idea about Korea, or even Korean culture,\u201d says Hong. \u201cSome were aware of Samsung, but they never knew what country the brand is from. Those who are interested in international situations knew about South Korea as the country that is confronted with North Korea. But I really wanted people to know Korean culture and that made me plan this festival.\u201d<\/p>\n
The festival will feature events such as arts projects, face painting, Korean games, and a chance to try on traditional Korean clothes. There will also be a Korean BBQ for those looking to try the country\u2019s tasty foods.<\/p>\n
But Hong is quick to point out the festival organizers aren\u2019t trying to teach people everything about Korea, but rather expose them, perhaps for the first time, to the country\u2019s rich traditions and culture.<\/p>\n
\u201cI would just like people to know there is a small country called Korea and Korean people have their own distinctive culture and enjoy it, and they have fun together without any inhibition,\u201d says Hong. \u201cThis is what we aim to do.\u201d<\/p>\n
Following the ethical and philosophical system of Confucianism, those who live in Korea have a certain code to adhere to, something which makes the adjustment to Canadian culture a bit of a challenge.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe basically have to be polite, humble, and respect our elders. In the relationships between men and women, they have to keep the distance from each other,\u201d explains Hong. \u201cThe women who are submissive to the men are considered the ideal, and they used to be dominated by men. Although this traditional patriarchal system has been weakening these days, we still have those customs throughout our culture.\u201d<\/p>\n
Despite these differences, Hong says the festival will focus on celebrating Korea\u2019s positive customs, such as jeong<\/i>, which means a feeling of affection and caring for other people and enjoying time spent together.<\/p>\n
\u201cKorean people have this feeling a lot, so we make Kimchi [fermented vegetables] every single year and share it and exchange it with neighbours,\u201d says Hong. \u201cKorean people are usually warmhearted people, even though they may act abrupt or look displeased at first sight.\u201d<\/p>\n
As for why so many Korean students choose Canada as their country of study, Hong says our country and its opportunities are very attractive to young Asians.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe come here to study English, go on travels, and experience foreign cultures,\u201d says Hong. \u201cEnglish is a very, very important skill for us to go to a high-level college or university and get a lucrative job.\u201d<\/p>\n