How Getting to Know My Parents Helped Me See Myself More Clearly
One of the most powerful ways to connect with our heritage is by discovering the stories of our parents. I grew up in a traditional Korean family, where my relationship with my parents was only the extent of what I wanted to eat for dinner or how I performed on my report card. Of course there were many moments of wishing for a different kind of relationship with them when I would hear stories of how my classmates at school actually hung out with their parents. They talked, and they shared about their days.
More from SheKnows
10 AAPI-Owned Food Brands to Support Right Now (& Every Day)
My parents' lives, like many others, were lived mostly in survival mode due to immigration. My umma was only 32 and my appa was 37, with two young girls to take care of. I turned 42 this year and what I remember about my 30s is self-discovery, navigating newly married life, nourishing my friendships, and finding my grounding as a school teacher. I was just starting to become an adult. My 30s were starkly different from my parents' 30s. Before they came to the U.S, what were their dreams – Individually and collectively? What were they like in their youth with their peers? Did they also get into fights with their parents, too? It was hard to imagine them outside of their parental roles.
If we are to celebrate our heritage fully, it is to believe that each of our stories matter. And when we know a person by their stories, it is to see their humanity, their strength, their courage, their dreams, their hopes, and to say that we know them by name. Who they are is part of my story, too, and a story of Korean Americans. Here is what I have done to foster a different kind of conversation and interaction with my parents in order to know them as people. I hope it encourages you to know yours, too.
I am grateful that my parents have a great amount of photos in numerous cardboard boxes and photo albums. Before, I looked through these photos and saw age and time. How young my umma looked, or how cute my sister was when she was a baby. And our conversations remained surface-level. Now, I see them as building blocks for new discoveries. You can look at one photo on several different occasions, and a new story will appear. This can happen with intentional questions, a safe space to be vulnerable, and time to sit and listen without rushing.
When we were at my parents' house celebrating my appa's birthday last December, I purposely took out one of the cardboard boxes and looked through some photos. One photo stood out to me as one I wanted to know more about. My appa was probably in his early 20s, and he was with some friends on a mountain somewhere. I asked him where it was taken and why they were there. He smiled and suddenly repositioned his body and sat up straight, as to give a big announcement. He looked engaged. My appa shared with me that the photo was taken when he was 16 years old, and the three other young men are his best friends. Their favorite place to go on weekends was Seoraksan, which is located in a national park near the city of Sokcho – his hometown. They would hike, talk, drink, and eat for hours. The first thing that came to my mind was, 'This is where I get my love of hiking.' Here I thought my dad probably studied day and night, even on weekends. But no, weekends were for friends, and away from school.
I honestly didn't think he and I had much in common. The Appa I knew is stoic, with not a lot of hobbies outside of work. When we learn of our parents' stories, we are humbled and it allows us to see them apart from our own experiences with them. Many AAPI stories that are told of our parents are ones of trauma and sorrow. What is equally important is amplifying expansive stories – the many different parts to who they are. Our parents are not a monolith.
Some questions we can ask when looking at photographs with our parents are:
Where were you in this photo?
Who were you with?
Why were you there?
Tell me what you remember about this time.
How do you feel looking at this photo now?
Do you remember what else was happening in your life during this time?
I know for me, asking personal questions like this was awkward for the first several times. It was equally awkward and surprising for my parents, too. It took time and patience. Both my parents started to open up and share eventually. When we are trying to change a dynamic in any relationship, growing pains are inevitable. And change happens over time and it's not linear. Being intentional about gauging the atmosphere, how my parents are feeling at the moment, if we have enough time, have helped in starting these conversations. And, starting with one question per visit is helpful too. Choosing a photo that might provoke joy and positive times is helpful, too, although we may not always know what they are.
Lastly, I am honest with my parents. I tell them I am asking these questions now because I genuinely want to know them. And how I know it may feel strange and different and that's okay.
Another way to get to know our parents' stories is sharing our own. This one is harder for me to do; because my parents can be quick to judge or give unwanted advice, I don't always find it productive. But, I can choose what I share and when I share it. For example, when I started my teaching job years ago, I told my umma that working was hard and I missed being at school. I asked my umma what she remembers about her first job. What was hard about it? What did she miss before working? These questions led to some difficult, heartbreaking conversations for us, but I am honored that she opened up to me. Sometimes, my parents don't open up, and I have to be patient with them. I also have to make peace knowing that there may be parts of them they don't want to let me in on, and I have to be okay with it.
My favorite is talking over a meal. In my Korean culture, food is everything. Gathering for dinner after a long day of work is something we look forward to. No matter how our days were, or the argument we had in the morning, we can still come together at the end of the day to slow down with food. I am still figuring this one out, as we are used to a lot of silence during dinner — at least in my family.
I give myself a goal of asking one question to my parents while having a meal. I found our conversations to be richer than before by asking questions that are relevant and organic. For instance, my umma is the best cook I know. I would ask her about when she first had that particular dish and to tell us about it. This was how I found out about her favorite soy milk noodle soup (kongguksu) shop near her middle school where she grew up. She told my husband and I about how she and her girlfriends sometimes had to wait an hour on a sweltering hot day just for one bowl of this refreshing soup. We listened as we enjoyed it on a summer day last year. I looked at my umma, and the way she smiled, she was taken back to a joyful time with friends. When you get to know someone beyond the roles they play, your heart opens up for greater empathy and healing.
Whether we are sharing stories of our own, looking at photographs, or sharing a meal, we can be encouraged that it's never too late to know and celebrate our parents in this way. I often think about how perhaps my parents never shared because immigration had led them to believe that they are nameless and voiceless. This AAPI Heritage Month and beyond, let's remind our parents they are not nameless by giving them the space to show us who they are. Because who they are is part of who we are, and we cannot forget that.
Launch Gallery: Our Favorite Kids' Books by AAPI Authors, for Toddlers to Teens
Best of SheKnows
The Most Striking Rare Boy Names in the U.S. Right Now — & the Reason You Haven't Heard Them (Yet)
19 Celebrity Stepparents Who Have a Tight Bond With Their Stepkids
I'm 29 Weeks Pregnant, & Comfortable Sandals Are a *Must* This Summer—These Are the Best Ones on the Market
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Yahoo
Delicious Ways To Season Your Fried Eggs
Cooking a fried egg is a basic life skill every adult should know. It is a delicate process that requires some skill, but avoiding these common mistakes will make it well worth it in the end. Fried eggs are a staple in the classic American breakfast and a versatile ingredient. Whether used to top a gourmet burger or slide onto a tangy bed of Korean kimchi fried rice, perfectly seasoned fried eggs elevate many dishes. The fried egg is a beloved comfort food with endless seasoning options from straightforward salt and pepper to elaborate spice blends and obscure oils. Plain fried eggs can become mundane, but there are many interesting ways to jazz up this classic staple. Frying them in different oils and fats and adding a variety of herbs and spices can both alter the egg's crispiness and drastically improve its flavor. Read along to learn what seasoning is good on fried eggs so you can spice up this breakfast classic. Read more: 12 Store-Bought Bacon Brands Ranked Worst To Best Fry Your Eggs In Butter Butter is an easy egg-frying hack to instantly infuse your fried eggs with rich flavor. It heats up quickly in your pan, allowing the egg to get extra crispy for a satisfying fried crunch. You have options when selecting butter for fried eggs. Unsalted allows you to control your final flavor more, but salted butter is an extra decadent choice that packs plenty of flavor and fat. The higher-quality butter you choose, the better results you'll achieve. It's no wonder why butter-fried egg is a restaurant classic and is beloved by chefs and home cooks alike. From creamy pasta carbonara to breakfast hash there are so many delicious dishes that benefit from the addition of a runny yolk. Add these crispy butter-fried eggs to your cooking repertoire and impress your next breakfast date with your skills. Spice Them Up With Chili Crisp Chili crisp is all the rage in the culinary world, and for good reason, as it can be the perfect, unexpected addition to many dishes, including fried eggs. A staple in Chinese cooking, chili crisp is sesame oil infused with toasted spices, peppers, and MSG that packs a punch and is great for use in savory dishes like fried eggs. You can easily find pre-made chili crisps in your local supermarket, or you can make your own from scratch. To make chili crisp fried eggs begin by heating the oil in the pan, allowing the spices and peppers to bloom and become fragrant. Next crack your egg over the heated oil and allow the egg to cook in bright red chili crisp. The result will be a vibrant, red, crispy, and crunchy fried egg packed with the smoky flavor of sesame oil and the delightful heat of the peppers. Chili crisp eggs are delicious when topped with fresh chopped green onions and served over rice for a complete and satisfying meal. Sprinkle On Paprika For A Smoky Kick If you aren't looking to reinvent the wheel and just want to add a simple upgrade to your everyday fried egg recipe try using paprika. It is an aromatic red spice originating in Central Mexico, made up of ground red peppers such as bell peppers and mild chilies. Paprika has sweet and smokey-tasting notes that complement a large array of savory dishes. Paprika is a common household ingredient that most people already have in their cupboards, making this cooking tip a simple and affordable way to elevate fried eggs. When used in fried eggs, paprika adds a satisfying warmth to the dish without being spicy. You can sprinkle them on top or even toast your paprika in frying oil before adding the egg for added depth of flavor. Add salt, pepper, and a dash of smoked paprika for a slightly smoky, nutty-flavored fried egg. Keep It Traditional With Salt And Pepper Salt and pepper are the original seasonings for just about every dish known to man. If you are short on time, money, or creativity use this easy seasoning combination to create a quick, delicious meal. After all, salt and pepper is a tried and true seasoning combo that's perfect for classic fried eggs. There is a fair amount of controversy surrounding the best time to season fried eggs. Some professionals recommend seasoning the bottom of the pan before adding the eggs. Others suggest adding a sprinkle of seasoning to the eggs after cooking due to the salts' ability to break down the eggs' protein structure. Ultimately, when you add the seasoning to eggs is up to you, and it most likely won't affect the end quality of the dish either way. Using just salt and pepper to season your fried eggs makes them incredibly versatile, perfect for topping a variety of dishes such as burgers, rice bowls, and avocado toast. Use Bacon Grease As A Shortcut Eggs and bacon are a timeless American breakfast classic that fit together perfectly. Since you are probably already frying up some crispy crunchy bacon to pair with your eggs, make sure to save the leftover grease in the pan after cooking, as tossing it is a huge mistake. Saving it not only avoids the trouble of washing an extra dish, but it is also a quick and easy way to upgrade fried eggs. Saving the bacon grease is less wasteful and adds a hearty flavor to the dish. Heat the bacon grease in the same pan in which you previously cooked the bacon and add the eggs to fry. Bacon grease gives the eggs a nice golden brown color around the edges and makes the underside of the eggs super crispy. You can additionally season your eggs with pepper and lightly salt. Remember, bacon is already salted, so don't go overboard with extra salt. Also, don't forget to scrape all the tasty fried bits out of the bottom of the pan when serving as they are utterly magnificent breakfast flavor bombs. Keep It Light With Olive Oil Fried eggs are a complete protein and a great dish to start your day with a balanced breakfast. If you are looking for a way to keep the eggs low-calorie and nutritious, try frying them in a healthy fat such as olive oil. Frying eggs in olive oil is a staple in the Mediterranean diet, and for good reason. Olive oil is non-stick and is ideal for flipping eggs with ease without fear of breaking the yolks. It is also highly nutritious and imparts a mild earthy flavor to the eggs. Olive oil has many proven health benefits such as lowering high cholesterol and encouraging weight loss. It also contains omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants such as vitamin K and possesses anti-inflammatory properties. Another perk of frying your eggs in olive oil is its relatively high smoke point. With a smoke point above butter, cooking with olive oil gets the edges of the egg extra crispy and delicious. Bring The Heat With Hot Sauce Hot sauce is a cheap and easy way to dress up plain fried eggs in seconds for a satisfying breakfast. From mild heat to extremely spicy, there are innumerable kinds of hot sauce to choose from. With all the options a question arises, is there a "best" hot sauce for fried eggs? It depends on preference, of course, but certain hot sauces are nearly ubiquitous with breakfast. Cholula works great with eggs because of its medium spice and high salt content, though Tabasco is another classic big-name favorite if you prefer a spicier hot sauce in the morning to wake up your taste buds. Hot sauce also has antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties for an added nutrient boost to your fried eggs. If you are feeling adventurous, try making a homemade version, or for the easier route, simply purchase one of the hot sauce brands that are worthy of your pantry space. Get Creative With Pesto Pesto fried eggs are a popular food trend across social media, especially on TikTok. Pesto is an Italian sauce made of pine nuts, olive oil, basil, lemon juice, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. It is a vibrant green color and tastes cool and refreshing. The light herby taste of pesto pairs well with the richness of fried eggs. For a quick and savory breakfast smear pesto on a thick slice of toast and top with a runny fried egg for a delightful Italian treat. Another twist on this recipe is cooking the eggs in the pesto. Simply heat the pesto in the pan and once thoroughly heated add the eggs and cover to cook to the desired consistency. This cooking method allows the eggs to absorb all the flavors of the pesto while cooking. When cooking fried eggs in pesto be sure not to salt the dish because the pesto contains plenty of salt as it is. Pesto-fried eggs are an easy topping to elevate many dishes such as avocado toast, burgers, or roasted potatoes. You can also make your own pesto from scratch for an extra luxurious breakfast experience using this bright and fresh pesto recipe. Turn Up The Heat With Red Pepper Flakes Red pepper flakes are a common cooking ingredient and a flavor staple in the average household cupboard. Simple and effective red pepper flakes are a straightforward way to spice up fried eggs. You can purchase a bottle of red pepper flakes for under $5 at most local supermarkets making them an extremely cost-effective way to season food. Red pepper flakes are commonly made from dried cayenne peppers that can be quite spicy so be sure to use them sparingly at first. Using red pepper flakes to season your fried eggs is easy — simply fry your eggs how you normally would and sprinkle the flakes on top after cooking. You can also explore homemade red pepper flake recipes. Making red pepper flakes from scratch allows you to control the kinds of peppers that go into it and customize the heat level. You can go mild and use just chili peppers, or, if you prefer extreme heat, you can even add dried Carolina reapers into the mix. Get creative by making your own red pepper flake recipe or stick to the tried and true grocery store brand for delightfully spicy fried eggs. Add A Middle Eastern Flare With Za'atar Za'atar is a versatile spice blend made up of marjoram, oregano, cumin, sesame seeds, black pepper, salt, and sumac. The exact spices in za'atar vary slightly between regions but the base remains consistent. The ingredient that separates za'atar from other common spice blends such as poultry seasoning and Italian seasoning is the inclusion of sumac. This spice has a tart citrus flavor that is a bit astringent which makes it perfect to season hearty dishes such as fried eggs. You can find za'atar in your local Middle Eastern stores or high-end grocery stores. You can also make a homemade za'atar blend from scratch which allows you to control the ratio of spices in the blend. Sumac adds a nutty and herby flavor to fried eggs that sets them apart. A za'atar-flavored egg would pair nicely with lemon yogurt and naan, though they are also delicious eaten on their own. Freshen Up Your Breakfast Plate With Cilantro Want to add fresh herbs to your fried eggs? Try cilantro for a pleasant nutty and peppery flavor that compliments fried eggs well. Depending on preference, you can chiffonade the cilantro into thin strips or garnish with the whole leaf. It's best to add cilantro as a garnish rather than before cooking — otherwise, it will wilt and turn brown quickly in the pan. Cilantro is available in most local grocery stores and is cheap to buy, making it an easy way to jazz up fried eggs. Because cilantro is often sold in a giant bunch that is hard to use before it turns bad you will likely have leftovers. If you want to craft a more time-consuming cilantro fried egg recipe that explores the flavor of cilantro in-depth, try repurposing leftover cilantro stems. You can use the stems to make infused cilantro butter. Then, heat the butter in a non-stick pan and fry your eggs in the gourmet, cilantro-infused butter for a decadent restaurant-quality fried egg. A cilantro-fried egg is perfect for topping a burger or an Asian-inspired dish. Take An Unexpected Turn With Dill Pickle fried eggs, anyone? This TikTok trend may seem curious to some, but it is actually a riff on a culinary classic — fried eggs topped with dill. Using pickle brine is an easy shortcut to achieve these delicious, trendy fried eggs with juice that would otherwise be poured down the drain. Start by cooking your eggs normally in a pan then adding the brine at the very end and letting the juice heat through. Make sure the eggs are covered completely in the brine for maximum flavor and then cover them to complete cooking. At first glance, the combination of pickle juice and fried eggs doesn't seem overly appetizing, but it is a common flavor combination in dishes such as egg salad and deviled eggs. The salty brine from the pickles adds an unexpected zing. Experiment with different flavors of pickles such as hot pickles, sour pickles, or even bread and butter pickles for different flavored fried eggs. Pickle juice is also thought to replenish electrolytes which makes this a great add-on for a nourishing breakfast. Add a pickle-flavored egg to a juicy burger or just enjoy it on its own. Give Parsley A Go Parsley often gets a bad rap in the culinary industry as a stuffy outdated herb. It's frequently underutilized as just a garnish to add a pop of color to monochromatic dishes, but it can be used for much more. It's also widely available and fairly cheap, which makes grabbing a bunch even easier. Chopped parsley brings a clean, herby flavor to your fried eggs that can lift the dish's flavor and appearance. You can use fresh parsley for a lighter flavor or sprinkle your fried eggs with dried parsley for a more concentrated herb flavor. Making a parsley-fried egg is simple. Start by heating the oil in the pan then add the herbs and allow them to become fragrant. Next crack the egg on top of the herbs and cook it to the desired doneness. You can also sprinkle parsley on the top of cooked eggs after they are fried to preserve the freshness of the herbs and elevate a simple breakfast dish. Fry Your Eggs In Heavy Cream Finally — a good use for the tiny amount of heavy cream in the carton at the back of your fridge. Skip the oil and butter and opt for heavy cream to make fried eggs. This trend has been circulating on social media for a while now and is a quirky take on brown butter fried eggs. Cooking fried eggs in heavy cream results in indulgent, crispy-edged eggs. Start by adding 3 to 4 tablespoons of heavy cream to a frying pan and allowing it to heat up. The heat will evaporate the liquid from the cream leaving a decadent brown butter in which to fry your eggs. Once the extra liquid has evaporated, cover the pan and allow the eggs to cook to the desired doneness. Season the eggs as you wish and enjoy your decadent cream-fried eggs sure to make you swoon. They make a great creamy topping for toast or an appetizing addition to a Korean bibimbap bowl. Boost Your Brunch Plate With Steak Seasoning Putzing around on Sunday mornings calls for a mean steak and eggs, a breakfast icon that's ridiculously filling and decadent. But if you don't have the red meat? Turns out, steak seasoning makes a killer addition to fried eggs, too. It might not be the standard choice, but a basic steak seasoning, at its core, mainly consists of classic table spices you'd embrace for a rib-sticking breakfast, including salt, pepper, garlic, onion, and paprika. Additionally, robust and peppery steak seasoning has good textural payoff, and reinforces the lacy edges eggs get when fried on the griddle-top. You probably have a container of Montreal Steak Seasoning (but did you know about its fascinating history?); otherwise, any brand of coarse spice rub will do the trick. It's an inexpensive way to boost your brunch plate, as a bottle of the stuff can go a long way in the kitchen. If you are employing steak seasoning for actual steak, fry your eggs directly after the meat so they pick up the delectable flavor scraps lingering in the pan. Otherwise, shake it on your fried egg to your heart's content. Play With Old Bay What exactly is in Old Bay, you might wonder? Enshrined in Maryland cuisine, this spice mix consists of paprika and celery salt, along with red and black pepper to conjure its orange color and signature taste. Unsurprisingly, a large range of foods respond to its smoky, warming notes, though its usage from cooks defaults the most to seafood dishes. Those seeking to expand beyond crab boils will find its hearty depth brings a lot to the table for fried eggs. Who would have thought a spice agent associated with the classic fish fry could be so versatile in wake-up fare? We like Old Bay for its savory pop and the convenience of so many tasty spices packed into one jar. Preparation is all but zero when it simply takes scrounging your cupboard space for the all-in-one blend before dousing your pan-fried eggs on the stove. You can add as much or as little as you want, in return for granting your protein a spicy kick. Don't fret over when to apply the seasoning -- as long as the eggs are thoroughly heated, a dash at the beginning or end will do just fine. Try Salsa For A Zesty Spin Salsa isn't just for tortilla chips — not when there's yolks ready to hit your skillet. Practically any variety and spice level is a game-changer for perking up a fried egg breakfast no matter how old-school. Nutritionally-speaking, it tends to be light in calories, while never sacrificing on a punchy kick of flavor to really make eggs crave-worthy. Green or red, habanero or mild pico de gallo, the spice and heat combine to imbue a zesty flair to your morning. For one idea of how to show off your eggs, consider breakfast nachos to feed a crowd. Jarred salsas are popular, of course, but feel free to opt for fresh homemade salsa to impart a zesty twist on your eggs. It's simple: After completing the cooking to personal preference, spoon the desired amount on the side or coating the fried eggs. This is perfect for that leftover bit still in the fridge waiting to be used up. Or for a different and no-less tasty tack, you could allow the eggs to simmer in the salsa, basting occasionally. This mirrors a Middle Eastern shakshuka, giving the eggs a richer consistency on account of absorbing the hot, bubbly sauce. Go Gourmet With Truffles Truffle is the bougie addition you should start adding to your fried eggs. It's hyper-trendy, and not exactly frugal, yet there's no doubting your brunch will get a serious boost with these rich, funky mushrooms. Whether you opt for black or white fungi, you don't need to add a lot of it to elevate your morning grub to a five-star affair. Don't forget to compliment the strong aromas with additional flourishes -- truffle-adorned fried eggs would pair deliciously with herbs like parsley or chives, and a splash of your favorite hot sauce. Truffle tends to show at the end for a final, show-stopping effect. You can lightly garnish your plate with truffle shavings upon frying your eggs to the desired consistency. Obviously, getting your hands on real truffle mushrooms might not come as easily as other delicious seasonings. Your next best bet is truffle oil. High temperatures, some argue, can strip the oil of its potency, so you might consider treating your eggs to a light drizzle once they've heated to completion. And whatever you do, consider opting for brown butter as your cooking fat -- the combo is simply divine. Sizzle Your Eggs In Garlic A one-and-done ingredient like garlic is transformative, especially when it comes to versatile foods like the fried egg. Peel off the papery skin and chop the cloves, opting for a fine mince or larger slivers depending on your preference. Then in a pan, sauté your garlic in the hot oil to let the aromatics permeate. When you crack the eggs in to fry, they'll soak in the glorious infusion, developing that powerful burst of umami. Just make sure the burner isn't set too high so you don't scorch your garlic, a mistake that could make your dish taste off. Garlic is the backbone to just about any appetizing dish we can imagine. Never mind these little bulbs contain a good number of vitamins and antioxidants, so they're stupendously ideal for key health benefits as well as imparting foods with strong flavor. For early birds, serve the garlicky eggs with a slice of toast and bacon, or incorporate it into a stir-fry with vegetables for dinner. Even when rushing to fit a nourishing meal into your day, it's only an extra step towards fried eggs at their peak. Sprinkle On Everything Bagel Seasoning Assuming you're frying eggs for a protein-packed avocado toast, you're likely anticipating a nice garnish to tie it together. Try Everything Bagel seasoning. This speckled seedy blend sounds odd, but it's exactly the ticket to jazzing up your morning breakfast. It's composed of the crunchy tidbits affixed to a real Everything Bagel -- poppy and sesame seeds, garlic, and kosher salt -- and unlocks a strong blast of flavor when incorporated into plainer dishes. Nothing is more effortless than sizzling your egg and, once cooked, dusting on the salty-crispy goodness to make it even more magical. Generously sprinkling Everything Bagel seasoning onto your fried eggs is so incredibly easy now that it isn't fringe; tons of grocery stores, most notably Trader Joe's, jar and sell the breakfast topper. Those who maintain a well-stocked spice rack will find it's also easy to recreate at home from scratch. If you really want to step out of your comfort zone, try toasting the seasoning in oil. When you plop the egg in, it'll form a crackly crust on the bottom that's truly delectable slapped onto sourdough (or a bagel). Read the original article on Chowhound. Solve the daily Crossword
Business Insider
20-07-2025
- Business Insider
I gave up my US passport and changed my name — all for my love of basketball and Korea
This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Lee Seung-jun, a 47-year-old retired professional basketball player who represented South Korea internationally. His words have been edited for length and clarity. A mix of my American dad's height and my Korean mom's identity took me places — literally. I was born in the US and grew up as Eric Lee Sandrin, but after moving to Korea and giving up my US passport, I became Lee Seung-jun. I went on to play professional basketball and on the Korean national team. Both sides of my family shaped me in different ways. Settling down in Seattle My dad is 6-foot-7 and played basketball through college, then later for the Army team. He met my mom while stationed in Korea. After completing his service, they moved to Washington state to settle down. My dad loved the mountains, and my mom liked being closer to Korea. My younger brother and I were raised in the suburbs of Seattle, although we often spent summers in Korea. Over the years, we started bringing other members of the family to the US, my grandmother, uncles, and aunts. Little by little, almost all of them ended up moving to the Seattle area, opening up small businesses like grocery stores and karaoke bars, similar to other Korean immigrants in the area. In between cultures At school, we were usually the only Asian kids in class. At home, everyone looked like us. It created a constant push-pull: Korean at home, American outside. At school, kids would say, "Are you guys Chinese?" And we'd say, "No, it's a different country." And they would say, "Oh, Japanese?" When we visited my dad's family in Michigan, our cousins didn't know what we were; they hadn't seen people like us in the Midwest. My mom worried about prejudice, so we didn't grow up speaking Korean. She wanted us to be American first, even as she struggled to learn English herself. Court vs. classroom I started shooting hoops when I was around six. In our early teens, we'd just head to the park and play. It wasn't until high school, when coaches started sending letters and offering scholarships, that I thought, "Wow, I might actually get to play basketball in school." I ended up enrolling at the University of Portland, and later, after a knee injury, transferring to Seattle Pacific University — I played for both of the schools' teams. After graduating, I got a teaching certificate and lined up a job teaching at a high school. Change of plans Then I chose basketball instead. My mom thought I was throwing it all away. My brother was planning to be a lawyer, and she had dreams of bragging about us to her coffee group. But by then, basketball had become my life, my brother's too. When I didn't make it to the NBA, I started building an international career, including a brief stint with the Harlem Globetrotters. I was still chasing the NBA dream when a Korean agent suggested I try out for teams in Korea. I suggested that my brother go first. He loved it and told me, "You have to come." So I did. To play for the South Korean team, I had to give up my US citizenship. My dad, a military vet, wasn't happy. He reminded me that family members had died fighting for the US. He thought it was rash. But after we talked it through, he understood. For me, it was about finding a better opportunity, just like his grandparents had done when they came from Italy. Restarting in Korea When I arrived in Seoul, I had just turned 30. At first, Korea felt familiar. The faces and food reminded me of my mom. But once I got deeper into the culture, I realized how different I was. I didn't speak the language and hadn't done military service. Basketball practice in Korea felt like military training. We practiced four times a day: 6 a.m., 10 a.m., 4 p.m., and 8 p.m. That's also when I started realizing just how many unspoken rules there are in the Korean language and culture. I remember one of my first practices, I walked in, sat down, and started lacing up my shoes. I was sitting in the head coach's chair, but I had no idea that was a big faux pas. So I was sitting there when the coach walked in. I went, "Oh, what's up?" I didn't even greet him properly. I didn't know any of this stuff. The whole team was like: "How can he be so rude? How does he not know this?" That moment really pushed me to start learning the unspoken rules and study the language. I eventually changed my name to Seung-jun, a name crafted with my mom's help. It means "beautiful victory," and links to my brother's name Dong‑jun — he grew up as Daniel. When I was growing up in the States, my grandma used to talk to us for hours, but we could hardly understand her. After learning to speak Korean, it was like meeting my grandma for the first time. I could actually talk to her and understand what she was saying. Off the court, still in the game In 2017, I retired, although I knew I wanted to stay in Korea. It felt like home. The healthcare system is amazing. My wife, who's half-Korean, half-Romanian, is also a basketball player and is still playing. A year after retiring from basketball, before my brother eventually got a green card and moved back to the States, we started Prism Hoops Academy. The youth sports company is focused on making sports fun for kids. In Korea, education is intense and regimented. Our goal was to create a space where kids could just play. I'm now running the school with Im Won‑jun, another Korean American who, funnily enough, also grew up in Seattle. We offer basketball, soccer, and chess. It's not about drills or perfection; our goal is just helping kids build positive memories. Coaching young kids has become a real passion of mine, and my plan is to go back to school for a higher degree in education or administration. So it looks like my mom will get her teacher after all.
Buzz Feed
17-07-2025
- Buzz Feed
If You Still Need Convincing, These 31 Items Are Solid Proof That K-Beauty Products = Legit Magic
A moisturizing hair serum if your locks are feeling brittle and dryer than ever — this game-changing potion has you covered. It's made with seven nourishing oils, including argan, coconut, olive, apricot, marula, jojoba, and camellia. Reviewers praise this serum for helping to combat dryness! Plus, it smells downright divine. A satin-finish TirTir cushion foundation that offers an unheard-of 72 hours of wear while blending *perfectly* to conceal blemishes, redness, and under-eye circles. The buildable formula lets you achieve *just* the right amount of coverage for your needs. It also contains hibiscus and red propolis extracts to help enhance your skin's elasticity. And!!! The oval-shaped puff is great for reaching every inch of your face. A jar of Anua heartleaf daily toner pads made with PHA to gently exfoliate making dead skin cells go POOF! It may also reduce breakouts, whiteheads, and blackheads. The heartleaf extract soothes and moisturizes for skin so glowy, it'll become an *instant* staple in your routine. A Nooni tinted appleberry lip oil for creating the most kissable pout with a moisturizing formula that won't leave your mouth a sticky mess — now that's magical. It contains vitamins A, C, and E, and soothing apple water for a lip upgrade you can feel good about! I Dew Care's dry shampoo powder, which is a *non*aerosol option made with Korean ginseng to revive limp, greasy hair and add volume. It's a fine, hypoallergenic powder that absorbs oil, sweat, and dirt to help locks stay fresh longer. One reviewer describes it as "sorcery" and tbh, I get it. The Face Shop's facial foaming cleanser when you wanna simplify your daily routine with a do-it-all face wash that helps you accomplish all your skin goals: cleanse, moisturize, brighten, and remove makeup! You *and* your newfound K-beauty routine can thank me later. Cosrx Snail Mucin 96% Power Repairing Essence because believe it or not, snails have the healing touch. Bonus: This refreshing formula can be used on all skin types! Reviewers love how well it helps heal acne, inflammation, peeling, fine lines, and even eczema! And a lightweight Cosrx mild gel cleanser that may very well contain some kinda pixie dust y'all. Now you can wash your face without the constant worry that you're stripping your face dry. The low-pH formula contains BHA and tea tree oil to help protect your face from irritants while also strengthening the skin barrier. Torriden hyaluronic acid serum complete with *five* types of HA molecules in a fast-absorbing formula that will make you a believer — it packs a MASSIVE punch of moisture when you need it most. Your skin will stay wonderfully hydrated and smooth thanks to this lightweight, non-sticky serum! A SeoulCeuticals toner mist set to earn a *permanent* spot in your beauty routine once you experience its dewy effects. This skincare juggernaut is made up of 98% naturally derived ingredients such as soothing aloe, rejuvenating cucumber, and antioxidant-rich green tea that'll make your skin glow like never before. It hydrates, plumps, and helps treat blemishes while preventing future breakouts. An Innisfree daily UV defense sunscreen you'll probably always have on hand because it's one of those holy grail products that you absolutely dread running out of. It contains SPF 36 for sun protection, green tea for reducing redness and irritation, and sunflower oil to nourish the skin. Most importantly, it doesn't leave behind a ghostly white cast and will have your face glowing all day long. And some peptide patches for blocking out 98% of UV rays because, hello, you don't have a 10-step skincare routine just to have your under-eyes demolished by sun damage. These look like stickers and have an impressive UPF 50+ rating *plus* they're enriched with hydrating peptides to help brighten your skin. Oh, they're also water- and sweat-resistant so you don't have to worry about them staying put. A Beauty of Joseon eye serum if you've been searching high and low for a product that'll actually put a spell on your under-eye bags. It uses a powerful trifecta of retinol, niacinamide, and ginseng to lessen the appearance of wrinkles, boost skin elasticity, and illuminate your skin – you'll be looking radiant and glowy in no time. A Laneige water sleeping mask infused with squalane and a probiotic-derived complex to help hydrate your lips while you sleep for a perfectly ~supple~ pout. Simply slather it on before bed and you'll wake up with refreshed, hydrated lips to the start the day. Bonus: It also helps strengthen your skin's moisture barrier! And their super glowy lip balm so you can elevate your makeup look during the day too! This silky-smooth balm has a lightweight but high-shine finish so you can wear it solo OR on top of your fave lip color. Say goodbye to sticky-icky lips that make your questions your life choices. Mixsoon Bean Essence when you're ready to be totally mystified by a skincare product — this revolutionary formula hydrates *and* exfoliates at the same time. Ingredients such as fermented bean, barley, and pomegranate help get rid of dead skin cells while improving your skin tone. Best of all? No sticky residue!! An Anua heartleaf pore-clearing cleansing oil to help you remove all traces of makeup while sucking the stubborn sebum from your pores, leaving you with skin that's visibly clearer and smoother! Once you see the results, you'll never be caught without this stuff. 👀 Plus, their deep cleansing foam for anyone who wants a cleanser that goes DEEP to obliterate dead skin cells and any other gunk clogging your pores. The key ingredient is heartleaf extract, which helps reduce redness and inflammation so your skin is instantly soothed while feeling squeaky clean. And!!! Anua soothing toner — it can calm irritation and deliver the ~glass skin~ look you've been chasing ever since it erupted on TikTok! It refreshes your complexion by gently balancing your skin's pH so it can better absorb your other skincare products. Annndd their 10% niacinamide serum that targets dull areas and leaves your face feeling soft to the touch while strengthening the skin barrier. It also contains 4% tranexamic acid and 2% arbutin to minimize the appearance of pores, visibly brighten dark spots, and help even out your skin tone. Kahi Wrinkle Bounce Hydrating Multi-Balm, a K-beauty staple that might as well be a magic wand is rightfully obsessed with because it's an all-in-one stick for your face, eyes, lips, and neck. This moisturizer uses collagen and salmon complex to help minimize fine lines and enhance your natural glow. One order of glass skin, comin' right up! Elizabeth Mott's Thank Me Later Eye Primer I bet you'll tell all your friends about to ensure they don't miss out on this K-Beauty sensation either. It keeps your eye makeup intact ALL day long without any smudging or creasing. Take that, oily eyelids! And an Elizabeth Mott pore-minimizing face primer because some products really can do it all. This one has a mattifying effect that'll lessen the visibility of pores, soften the appearance of fine lines, *and* prevent creasing and caking. It's perfect for prepping skin for makeup, or you can wear it solo! A Some by Mi Miracle toner reviewers with oily *and* sensitive skin swear by, which is a near-impossible feat! It uses chemical exfoliants combined with tea tree oil, papaya, and witch hazel extract to eliminate dead skin cells and improve your skin's overall hydration, typically within 30 days. "Abracadabra" just doesn't cut it. A kimchii gel cleanser with antimicrobial properties, which can work wonders for reducing bacteria and preventing pesky pimples. The secret? Fermented radish, kimchi, and 2% salicylic acid. Your skin will feel perfectly exfoliated *and* look so much smoother and brighter. A goami rice toner if dry skin is low-key ruining your life and you need a major kick of *daily* hydration ASAP. This toner contains vegetable-originated extracts for soft, smooth, and glowy skin that doesn't feel sticky or greasy. Skin1004's pore tightening and lifting masks to hydrate, tighten, and minimize the appearance of pores and fine lines. Leave it on for 15 minutes and wash it off to reveal your au naturale glow. Mark my words, this is about to become a *must* on your self-care nights! The Saem hydrating eye stick infused with the magic of Icelandic mineral water, moss extract, and seaweed extract — it'll revitalize your under-eye area *and* help improve your skin's elasticity and reduce the appearance of dark circles! A Sioris Time Is Running Out Mist that'll treat your face to the perks of a mist, toner, and serum with one legendary K-Beauty product you'll truly never wanna run out of. It uses macadamia seed oil, jojoba seed oil, and sunflower seed oil to give you the moisturized, glowy skin you deserve. A dark-spot correcting serum so you can address the hyperpigmentation that's been bothering you to no end. This enchanting serum contains 5% niacinamide, papaya extract, and plant-derived squalane to help gade dark spots and leave you with a smooth, even complexion. And! Etude 2x barrier intensive cream because your skin barrier can always benefit from a moisture-rich formula that'll help strengthen it even more! It might as well have been made in a cauldron because it's loaded with shea butter to leave your skin feeling perfectly supple. Plus, reviewers say it's a nice, creamy texture that absorbs quickly!
