Ep. 111/Tradition and Self-Expression as a Korean American
Discover What It Means to Prioritize Love Over Understanding While Navigating Cultural Traditions in Family Relationships.
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What happens when the need for self-expression clashes with deeply rooted cultural traditions? In this profoundly personal episode, host Chris Oh shares her journey of growing up Korean American in this episode #111, “Seoul Searching: Balancing Tradition and Self-Expression as a Korean American,” navigating familial and cultural expectations, and finding peace in accepting that prioritizing a relationship with her mother means letting go of the hope for full understanding—but grounding herself in the love and acceptance her mother expresses in her own way.
Chris reflects on a recent trip to Korea with her mother, where old childhood insecurities resurfaced, and she found herself grappling with the delicate balance of honoring her Korean cultural heritage while staying true to her own voice. This is a story of vulnerability, cultural identity, and acceptance—showing that while mutual understanding may not always be possible, finding clarity in a loved one’s perspective and focusing on connection can foster healing and peace, even when worlds feel apart.
