Obviously stereotypes exist for a reason, and there are unfortunately some parents out there who try to push their kids like this I'm sure this has to do with the fact that I'm in the country and down south, but I've found the majority of these to be untrue! Here are some of the most common stereotypes of Korean parents, and how I've found they actually manifest themselves.
South Korean parents all want their children to grow up to be doctors or business professionals.
There are countless popular dramas in Korea that take place in and glorify the medical world. |
When I ask my students what they want to be when they grow up, numerous times I've gotten illustrator, diplomat, game designer or programmer, and athlete. While some of these seem like typical childhood dreams, I find diplomat in particular to be interesting. More than one student has mentioned this to me, at both the elementary and high school level. If there's one thing you can say has been successful about the English program in Korea, it's that it has inspired Korea's younger generations to take more of an interest in the world outside of Korea. Also, I think it's worth noting that none of them wanted to be Kpop stars!