Most Common Misconceptions About East Asian Countries
East Asia consists of several countries including China, Hong Kong, Japan, North Korea, South Korea, and Taiwan. Each has its own rich culture, lifestyle and economy. However, it is very common for a Chinese person to be confused for a Japanese person and vice versa. Especially Asians living abroad are well familiar with this pain. Similarly, there are several myths and misconceptions regarding Asians residing on the East Side. But like all aspects of life, there are exceptions to every norm. In the same vein, following are some of the common misconceptions associated with them:
All Asians are Super Smart
Most people assume that all East Asians are very good at studies and are brilliant at science and Maths. Most people are aware of how serious and dedicated East Asian parents are towards the studies of their children. And we have all heard stories of how difficult it is to please East Asian parents and gain their approval regarding academics.
However, like all races, East Asians as well have a mix of both smart and not-so-smart people. Similarly, not all East Asians excel at science and math nor do they all grow up to become engineers.
All East Asians Look the Same
Another misconception about East Asians is that they all look the same. Not all of them have pale skin, straight black hair and slanted eyes. Foreigners sometimes even have difficulty in telling them apart.
On the contrary, Chinese, Japanese, Taiwanese and Koreans have distinct features and are easily distinguishable from each other.
Asians Eat Rice and Raw Fish All Day Every Day
Although rice and fish are among the popular foods amongst all Asians, that is not the only food that they consume. All countries in East Asia have unique and flavorful foods.
For instance, Korean food tends to be on the spicier side and they have Kimchi as a staple at every meal. On the other hand, Chinese food has milder spices whereas Japanese popular food items are Sushi and Miso soup.
They Speak The Same Language
One of the popular myths is that they all speak the same language. That is not true at all. Chinese people speak Mandarin whereas in Japan people speak Japanese. The sound of words and grammar all differ from each other. Whether it is the Korean language or the Han language.
Similarly, if you are looking to hire Japanese translation services, you can’t hire a Chinese translator unless he is fluent in Japanese as well.
All Asians are Super Rich and Conservative
This myth is flamed by the portrayal of East Asians in the media. We all remember the entertaining movie ‘Crazy Rich Asians. That movie played every Asian stereotype to the T. From controlling parents to their boastful attitudes to family dynamics. Moreover, there are a number of seasons and movies that add fuel to the fire by portraying them in typical light.
On the contrary, East Asians have the same class and socioeconomic differences as any other country in the world. Likewise, East Asian countries are under the heavy influence of Western cultures. In fact, many youngsters choose to pursue higher studies in the USA or the UK. This development has led to several changes throughout their traditions and culture. From family dynamics to their way of dressing to food preferences.
Japanese vs. Chinese Culture
Among the East Asian countries, Japan and China are often confused for each other. Moreover, It is easy to see why Japanese vs Chinese culture is a common topic for debate. Since both countries are powerful and leading economies.
Similarly, both countries have traditions that revolve around family structure and social hierarchy. Both societies have a patriarchal inheritance structure in which the leader of the family is always the eldest male member.
Nevertheless, the most basic difference between both countries is their respective political system. China follows socialism that is governed by a single party called the Communist Party of China.
Whereas Japan is a constitutional monarchy and is under the rulership of both; an emperor and a prime minister as the head of government. Moreover, both countries are under the heavy influence of their politics. In China, there are CCTV cameras everywhere and strict security in mainland areas. Even the internet goes through censorship by the Communist Party. As a result, Chinese people have way less freedom and privacy compared to people living in Japan.
Wrapping Up
Normally, these opinions and misconceptions lead to Asians facing discrimination or cause them to lose their individual identities. Despite various similarities in the looks and cultures of East Asians, there are several distinct features that make them both unique. It is imperative to bust these myths so that the real image of East Asians can surface and make them feel heard and seen. One of the ways of doing that is by educating yourself regarding some basic facts and knowledge.
