Steve Jang on Korea’s Exploding “Soft Power” And Much More | The Tim Ferriss Show

Added: Dec 7, 2023

The conversation delves into the influence of Confucian values on Korean society, the impact of the Korean diaspora, and the contrast between Korean and Japanese culture. Jang explains the significance of the Korean education system, the prevalence of Korean tutoring centers, and the role of Korean churches in connecting the diaspora community.

The discussion also touches on the rapid development and modernization of Seoul, with Jang emphasizing the city's unique blend of old and new. He describes the evolving landscape of Seoul, where traditional architecture coexists with modern, futuristic elements. The conversation explores the influence of outside cultures on Korea, as well as the distinct characteristics of Korean language and expressions.

Jang and Ferris compare the social dynamics of Korea and Japan, highlighting the direct and open nature of interactions in Korea compared to the more reserved and formal approach in Japan. They discuss the concept of "natsukashi" in Japanese, which represents a pleasant nostalgia, and the absence of a similar word in the Korean language.

The conversation continues with an exploration of the concept of "Han," which is described as a collective suffering experienced by the Korean people throughout their history. It is a complex and deeply rooted feeling that encompasses emotions such as sadness, anger, and a sense of shared struggle. Jang explains that "Han" can drive individuals to express themselves in strong ways and can also lead to a sense of bonding and empathy among the Korean people. The concept of "Jung" is also discussed, which refers to a warm feeling of attachment and connection. It is a positive and optimistic sentiment that fosters a sense of affection and empathy among individuals.

The guest further delves into the cultural significance of these concepts, highlighting their role in shaping Korean society and influencing various aspects of life, including business, relationships, and storytelling. He emphasizes that the interplay between "Han" and "Jung" is evident in Korean movies and TV series, where narratives often navigate between moments of collective suffering and moments of deep connection and empathy.

The conversation then shifts to the topic of the low birth rate in South Korea and the government's efforts to address this issue. Jang explains that the high cost of living in urban areas, particularly the exorbitant deposits required for renting apartments, is a significant factor contributing to the reluctance of young couples to start families. He also touches upon the consumer credit culture in Korea, which has historically been conservative and has led to a lack of trust in financial transactions.

Jang explains that South Korea's export-driven economy has been a key factor in its economic growth, with the country exporting not only physical goods like steel and chips, but also cultural products such as K-pop, movies, and beauty products. He highlights the importance of the export mindset in Korean society, where the focus is on shipping products and ideas to the global market.

The discussion then shifts to the rise of Korean entertainment and media, particularly the success of K-pop and Korean dramas on the global stage. Jang attributes this success to the export-oriented mindset of the Korean entertainment industry, as well as the support and enthusiasm of Korean fans. He also discusses the impact of platforms like Netflix in amplifying the reach of Korean content to a global audience.

The podcast continues with a discussion of South Korea's transition from a labor-exporting country to a knowledge-based economy, with a focus on technology and innovation. Jang highlights the country's advancements in wireless technology, broadband, and AI, as well as its role in shaping the future of global telecommunications.

The discussion continues with Jang sharing his personal connection to Korea as a Korean-American. He talks about the cultural differences between the US and Korea, highlighting the sense of urgency and industriousness that he observes in the Korean mindset. Jang attributes this mindset to the historical and geopolitical context of living in close proximity to North Korea, which creates a sense of living in the moment and seizing opportunities.

Jang also discusses the significance of Korean food as a cultural export and the impact of Korean cuisine on the international stage. He emphasizes the importance of Korean food as a unifying factor and a representation of Korean soft power. Jang shares his experiences with Korean barbecue and the unique aspects of Korean cuisine, such as using scissors for cutting meat and the emphasis on stews as comfort food.

The conversation then shifts to the topic of Korean art and the documentary film about the artist Nam June Paik. Jang highlights the importance of Paik as a pioneering figure in digital and video art, as well as his influence on the global art scene. He discusses the challenges and struggles that Paik faced as an artist, including mental health issues and financial hardships. Jang also reflects on the impact of Paik's work on Korean culture and the significance of his legacy.

Jang also touches on the influence of the Korean diaspora on cultural and artistic developments, citing examples of Korean artists and musicians who have returned to Korea from abroad to contribute to the country's creative landscape. He emphasizes the role of the diaspora in bringing back new ideas and influences from other cultures, contributing to the dynamic and evolving nature of Korean art and music.

The conversation concludes with Jang expressing his excitement about the current state of Korea and the potential for growth and innovation in various fields. He highlights the energy and vibrancy of the country, as well as the opportunities for international visitors to experience Korean culture and cuisine. Jang encourages listeners to explore Korean language and culture, emphasizing the value of learning about different cultures and expanding one's perspective.