A review by naturegirl500
The Birth of Korean Cool: How One Nation Is Conquering the World Through Pop Culture by Euny Hong

4.0

This was a fascinating look into the unfolding story of Korea. I visited South Korea last summer and was intrigued with the culture and people. Hong's book helped me understand the back story of many cultural norms I noticed. I loved Korea. Clean, efficient, kind, safe and welcoming. Amazing what they have accomplished in a mere 50 years. Hong states, "Ultimately what it boils down to is that even if Koreans disagree with the government, or are resentful of corporate greed, they think of themselves as citizens of a republic in the sense that Plato intended, wherein citizens believe that the well-being of those around you contributes to your own well being. This idea is very much alive in Korea. That's why every school in the nation follows the same curriculum; that's why school is so difficult. Even the most elitist of Koreans believe that everyone has the right to a quality education. Call it enlightened self- interest, if you like. Koreans know from experience that everyone must rise together, or not at all." We could learn a few things from South Korea.