Letter to Yonsei Annals

Letter to Yonsei Annals

Dear Yonsei Annals,
I was a bit disturbed reading your most recent issue (40/8). In the article 'Lectures on the Islamic World' professor Lee and professor Choi seem to argue for a better understanding of Islamic culture because of economic benefits for Korea. In their view, Korea's 'success in globalization' depends on the Islamic world, and therefore Koreans should study Islamic culture. I found the same reasoning in the cover story 'Korea: mirrored in the eyes of foreigners'. There the author argues that if Korea wants to be recognized as a country 'well-suited for the era of globalization', it should accept the diversity of cultures and get rid of racial discrimination. Again economic self interest should convince Korean people to change their attitude towards foreigners. This reminds me of my English teaching friends who complain that Korean students do not study English because it enables them to communicate with the rest of the world, but because they need it to get a job.
Fortunately i have a lot of Korean friends who are genuinely interested in sharing Korean culture with me and learning something about where i come from. I do not think they become my friends to prepare their country for 'successful globalization'. In the article on the Islamic world, professor Choi is said to critisize some Koreans for having 'America-centered' view points; in my opinion Korea could do with a little less Korea-centered attitude.