Time to be friends again

Here’s this week’s tip on Korean language and customs:

Q:
Before coming to live in Korea, I had been warned by overseas Koreans “to be careful” when speaking about Japan. I was told that there is anti-Japanese sentiment in Korean society, which doesn’t allow Japanese culture to proliferate. But, I see Japanese dramas and songs on TV; my employees openly discuss Japanese culture and learn the language. I think a lot has changed. What do Koreans feel about Japan now?

A:
Anti-Japanese sentiment in Korean society goes way back in history, but the young generation in Korea today doesn’t share the same sentiment as the older generation that went through hard times. Because of the cultural similarities and geographical proximity of the two countries, Koreans have long integrated Japanese culture into their life, even when the government banned its importation. The ban was partially lifted in the late 1990s, however, and there has been a steady spread of Japanese pop culture in Korea. And it’s the younger generation that has embraced Japan with open arms. The general consensus in both Korea and Japan is that the countries should put their historical past behind them and move on.