Asian Outlook Spring 2015 Issue #1 by Asian Outlook

ASIAN OUTLOOK volume XXVIII, issue 3

Exclusive Interviews

with the guest performers of Asian Night 2014

Volume XXVIII, Issue 3

contents ASIAN OUTLOOK 2

featured 4 | Ebony and Jade: Questioning the Black and Asian American Relationship | Kahlil Stultz

ASIAN OUTLOOK

22 | Introducing the First Asian American Sitcom | Eric Liang

letter from the editor...

Asian outlook. I hope everybody enjoyed the holidays before coming back to school. On behalf of our publication, I wish everybody a happy New Year and a happy Lunar New Year. If you haven’t noticed, a few of our executive board members were fortunate enough to study abroad in Europe and Asia. Meanwhile, we have to come back to Binghamton, the town where temperatures go down to single digits and even to the negatives. The university even sent out an email warning people about hypothermia and the harsh cold. new semester means a new year to show off

ASIAN OUTLOOK EXECUTIVE BOARD FALL 2014 editors-in-chief conscience editor copy editors

layout editors

secretary business manager

To warm up in this weather, please take a look at out recent publication for the spring semester. Recalling some memories from last semester’s Asian Night, Asian Outlook took the stage with our spoken word act. It was awesome! We also had the pleasure to interview not one, not two but three guest performers: Ryan Mitchell Grey, Sorah Yang and JR Aquino. Theywere not only great at performing, but also great to talk to. On another note, many recent developments have occurred over the past few months. The biggest change in American television history is, one of ABC’s newest shows, “Fresh off the Boat.” It has finally premiered! Ever since the show’s development, it has been under fire for its controversial title. Nonetheless, it’s been making waves in American television and holds importance for being the first sitcom with a primarily Asian cast in over 20 years. Also, later in this semester, Binghamton University Japanese Association (BUJA) will be hosting their annual Host Club. Please feel free to come and support BUJA! I hope you enjoy our issue. Dress warmly and stay tuned for more from Asian Outlook! Dale Gao Editor-in-Chief, Spring 2015

publicity manager historian blogger staff writers

Dale Gao Anna Lin Alex Ching Angela Wu Eric Liang Siu Lam Koo Amanda Lau Ashley Lau Rudy Kuang Sophia Kim Ting Lin Calvin Chan Sungwon Kim Sharon Lau Shelley Shin Kahlil Stultz Russell Tobias

EDITORIAL POLICY Asian Outlook is the art, literary and news magazine of the Asian Student Union of SUNY’s Binghamton University. Originally conceived and created to challenge, redefine, re-imagine and revolutionize images and perceptions associated with Asians and Asian Americans, Asian Outlook also serves to protect the voice of those in the minority, whether by ethnicity, gender, and/or political orientation. All matter contained within these beautiful pages do not necessarily reflect the views of the editorial board. Asian Outlook reserves the right to edit submissions and publish work as deemed appropriate. Prospective contributors are encouraged to discuss their work with the editors prior to submissions. Articles may be submitted as an e-mail attachment to ao.editor@gmail.com. All artistic and literary pieces may be submitted to aoconscience@gmail.com.

CONTACT POLICY Uninvited contact with writers and contributors is forbidden under punishment of pain. Please direct all questions, comments and complaints to ao.editor@gmail.com. interested in contributing?

E-mail us at:

ao.editor@gmail.com

Or come to our weekly meetings held in the Asian Student Union office (UUW-329) every Wednesday at 8:00 p.m.

Vol. XXVIII, Issue 3

Ebony & Questioning the Black

Jade:

and Asian American Relationship

By Kahlil Stultz

couldn’t help but catch

ABC’s new sitcom, “Fresh off Boat.” Based on the memoirs of celebrity chef and second-generation Taiwanese American Eddie Huang, it was a highly anticipated show. It turned out that ABC’s newest addition is more than just the sentimental multicultural “Malcolm in the Middle” that I originally suspected it to be. In the same vein of comedy-dramas as “Everybody Hates Chris,” “Fresh off the Boat” offers a refreshingly new take on life in middle class America. The focus of the show is not on white Anglo-Saxon Americans with long and well-established ties in America. Instead, there is an admirable grittiness in the efforts of those on the social and racial margins of society, who are making their trudge through the land of opportunity. Key to this grittiness is how it approaches race dynamics. Racism, both intentional and unintentional, abounds in the series. Huang’s memoir puts himself in the place of an Asian American boy enveloped in the Golden Age of African American hip hop and street culture. A fictionalized 11 year-old Eddie Huang (played by Hudson Yang) gets into a vicious fight with Walter (played by Prophet Bolden), the only black student at the school, after Walter called Eddie a “chink.” The scuffle began, interestingly, over who would be able to sit at the table with a popular group of white boys. This conflict is both distressing and enlightening, though most of all, it is important. Conflict between minorities, as well as the prejudice that harbored between minority groups, is a topic seldom dealt with in sitcoms. The predominating discourse of race on cable television often portrays white society in the dominant role while marginalizing minority communities. Little attention is paid to the shaky and inconsistent relationship between minority groups in the American melting pot. By addressing the issue of racist name-calling, specifically the

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Walter’s use of “chink,” “Fresh off the Boat” acknowledges the difficult relationship between blacks and Asians in the United States. In the past and present, effects of ghettoization in major urban American cities, three centuries of institutional racism, and the politics of race in the United States have all contributed to an unsteady Afro-Asian relationship. Memories of the L.A. Riots of 1992 and the shooting death of Latasha Harlins are still raw in the minds of many Korean Americans and African Americans in the West Coast. Furthermore, the sense of bitterness that remains in parts of the black community, such as Marion Berry, the late Mayor of the District of Columbia, have been expressed towards Asian Americans, illustrating the barriers that prevent unity between the two groups. Negative racial views are not solely harbored by blacks. In certain Asian American households, defensive reactions to anti-immigrant sentiments and racism towards African Americans and blacks in general, have also contributed to the cultural cleavage. Asian Americans have been influenced by much of the media’s portrayal of black people as being lazy, unintelligent and prone to antisocial activities. Fears of black criminality and violence, have led some Asian Americans to adopt a cautious and at times, derogatory stance towards blacks and blackness. Stern parental warnings not to date or marry black men and women of any background and a negative view of black culture are unfortunately not uncommon among some first- and second-generation Asian Americans. The recent indictment of Chinese American NYPD Officer Peter Liang, who was charged with the manslaughter death of Akai Gurley, an African American, in a Brooklyn public housing estate in November 2014, further adds to the sense of distrust between blacks and Asians. The fatal ambush of NYPD Detective Wenjian Liu and his Hispanic partner by a mentally disturbed black

“

The question is not whether or how much blacks and Asians hate or love each other. Rather the question is, how can a better inter-community relationship be forged?

”

man in late December 2014 is another example of other troubling omens that could further damage Afro-Asian relations. I don’t write this piece under the assumption that every black and Asian person is locked in some interracial conflict. Nor can I say that the dynamics of race problems are solely relegated to some sort of yellow-black binary: this is an internecine community battle, from which no side can claim victory. If there is any answer to the division, then it must be one in which a dialogue emerges between Asians and blacks about what they want out of America and how both can help each other achieve those dreams. I personally don’t want to make it seem like there is anything especially volatile or bad about the relationship between blacks and Asians. In fact, I think it should be noted that throughout much of the history in America, there has been a long and proud tradition of a shared struggle against racism and flickers of cultural community. When Japanese Americans were interned in concentration camps during World War II, it was the NAACP and black newspapers that led scathing attacks on Franklin D. Roosevelt’s administration for its selective bigotry. As China was ravaged by the brutal Second SinoJapanese War in the 1930s, black churches throughout the country passed along hefty donations for the China Relief Fund. During the Civil Rights Movement, Asian Americans took part in the struggle for equal rights. Chinese Americans, such as Mary Harrison Lee, risked life and limb for the right of southern blacks to take part in American public life. Furthermore, it was a Japanese American civil rights activist – Yuri Kochiyama – who cradled Malcom X’s head as he lay dying following a 1965 assassination. Influential figures such as Marcus Garvey looked with interest and inspiration at the anti-colonial nationalism of the Chinese statesman Sun Yat-Sen. Civil rights icon Martin Luther King Jr. based much of his non-violence strategy on Gandhi’s philosophies and even dedicated a portion of his office wall to a visage of his Indian hero. Kung fu artists, such as Bruce Lee, inspired generations of urban black and Hispanic youths, giddy at the idea of a non-white action hero who could dare to fight and subdue white villains. Today, Korean music groups, Chinese cinema, Japanese animation and South Asian cuisine bear a presence in

Hudson Yang stars as Eddie Huang in the TV show, Fresh of the Boat.

many black and African American communities. West Indian Americans, such as myself, can boast of relatives and friends of Chinese descent. Likewise, numerous Asian and Asian Americans from Pakistan to the Pacific Islands have been influenced by hip-hop and reggae. The question is not whether or how much blacks and Asians hate or love each other. This is, among other things, an intellectually trite and fallacious debate. Rather the question is, with recent developments in mind, how can a better inter-community relationship be forged? “Fresh off the Boat” perhaps offers a stark and necessary, albeit unconscious, presentation of the racial pathologies of America. The dearth of pertinent responses to the scene between Walter and Eddy is discouraging. People need to reexamine racial relations in the United States, and this scene gives Asian America and African America an opportunity to acknowledge that a conflict exists. Let this be the start of better dialogue. Sources: http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/mike-debonis/post/lessons-frommarion-barrys-anti-asian-comments/2012/04/06/gIQAzS33zS_blog.html http://www.npr.org/blogs/thetwo-way/2015/01/04/374934749/nypdswenjian-liu-killed-in-dec-shooting-is-laid-to-rest http://gawker.com/nypd-cop-who-killed-gurley-texted-union-instead-ofseek-1667183543 http://www.npr.org/blogs/codeswitch/2013/08/19/209258986/thejapanese-american-internee-who-met-malcolm-x http://www.jstor.org/stable/27500003?seq=1#page_scan_tab_contents

Vol. XXVIII, Issue 3

By Amanda Lau

he targets of

North Korean state-sponsored cyber

crime have taken an alarming shift from military and infrastructure communities to the entertainment

industry.

The Sony Pictures Entertainment breach in 2014 dealt a lethal blow to the company, but the movie that caused the commotion managed to be somewhat successful. “The Interview,” starring Seth Rogen and James Franco, presents the quest of two journalists who are assigned to assassinate Kim Jong-Un after landing an interview with him. While this actioncomedy film was meant to satirize the country’s leadership, the North Korean government did not take it lightly and responded mercilessly. When the North Korean Foreign Ministry got word that “The Interview” was to be released, they warned Sony, saying, “We want everything related to the movie, including its trailers, as well as its full version down from any website hosting them immediately.” They announced that anyone who attended the opening on Christmas day would be risking their lives. All documentaries, television shows, and news outlets would have been in jeopardy. Terrorist threats were made to areas screening the movie. The growing public safety concerns gave Sony no choice but to withdraw the movie. This decision instigated many opposing remarks such as, “How can a failing state have the audacity to dictate which movies we can watch, while the industry watches from the sidelines?” President Barack Obama intervened, commenting, “We cannot have a society in which some dictator someplace can start imposing censorship here in the US.” The team behind production of “The Interview” never felt pressured to change the comedy, but one scene was “toned down” despite not mandated to do so. “There were visual effects changes to the film, however. The death scene of Kim being blown up in

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the helicopter was toned down,” said visual effects supervisor, Paul Linden. He revised the shot so the explosion did not “melt Kim’s face off, like the villain in ‘The Raiders of the Lost Ark.’” Despite the blackmail and release of company information, the public pressure from consumers, actors, and the President changed Sony’s mind. The movie was made available for streaming on Christmas Eve through digital channels and in demand payper-view networks, like Time Warner Cable and its PlayStation network. This was the first mainstream test bed for delivering movies straight to homes. Even with the unconventional method of distribution, Sony grossed $1 million on its Christmas Day release and brought in $15 million online revenue, compared to its $2.8 million revenue in ticket sales. Regardless of how the online release may be considered as an industry revolution or a total fluke, the confidential information that was disclosed cannot be wiped out. This was not the first time the company was at risk. Almost a decade ago, Sony was warned about possible shortcomings in their information security program, including use of weak passwords and poor data management policies. Many factors led up to the breach, for instance, Sony did not improve its security after the attack on its PlayStation platform in 2011. Even after their breach in 2011, we can't say how much effort has been put into improving their cybersecurity. Motion Picture Association of America did not respond to the attack. “The incident is likely to be remembered as a failure of Hollywood leadership,” Brooks Barnes and Michael Cieply from NYTimes stated. On Dec. 2, in Bangkok, (or the morning of Dec. 1 in California), computer hackers broke into the network at the St. Regis Bangkok and unveiled the secrets of

Sony Entertainment. By working inside the hotel, they were essentially hiding in plain sight, taking advantage of the wireless high-speed network available to guests. The malware used to communicate with the hackers was found at a university in Thailand. Hackers utilized open university networks when initiating attacks. Before the hacker group was identified, indications pointed to DarkSeoul, a hacking group linked to North Korea that directed attacks towards South Korean banks and media companies in 2013. Other signs were directed at North Korean hacking units, and these units are known to have branches in foreign countries. This was why the connection to a Thai hotel did not surprise investigators associating the attack with North Korea. Coding clues revealed that the command and control systems, which were used to communicate and identify with malware once it’s on a target system, was hacked; as a result, the attackers’ true origins were masked. Liam O’Murchu, a security researcher for Symantec said, “At least one command and control server was adopted in both the South Korean campaigns and the Sony Pictures breach, suggesting the same group was behind both.” In this instance, when the malware ran, it tried to connect to the hosts in Sony’s network, proving that it was tailored to the company. “Wiper” programs that erased hard drives and produced fake traffic clogging websites with denial of service messages were also discovered. With all the evidence, GOP (Guardians of Peace) eventually admitted responsibility to the crime. Many people including 47,000 Sony employees, former employees, freelancers, and some Hollywood actors’ personal information was compromised in the hack, along with the salaries and home addresses of people who left Sony as far back as 2000. The attack may have been a vendetta designed to embarrass

The attack may have been a vendetta designed to embarrass Sony, rather than enrich the executioners Sony, rather than enrich the executioners. As for the organization that benefited the most from the breach, it was not North Korea, but media outlets such as CNBC, ABC News, ZDNet, and the New York Times. They disclosed what damaging data was unveiled and, in some cases, where to find it! ZDNet, a tech site, reminded viewers that “sensitive data sorted by Sony was leaked online and remains downloadable through BitTorrent software.” Passwords, mailboxes, personal employee data and passport copies were stashed away in the files. Before more information is compromised, hopefully Sony has learned from its mistakes. Sources: https://medium.com/@maxine_builder/the-real-problem-with-theinterview-is-its-racism-not-its-satire-4d0cd30d5f0d http://www.cinemablend.com/new/What-Interview-Changed-Avoid-Controversy-Release-69118.html http://news.yahoo.com/north-koreas-us-movie-act-war-073047684. http://www.cnet.com/news/sony-sends-the-interview-far-and-wide/ http://www.forbes.com/sites/quickerbettertech/2014/12/08/can-youguess-who-benefits-the-most-from-sonys-data-breach/ http://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2014-12-07/sony-s-darkseoul-breach-stretched-from-thai-hotel-to-hollywood

Vol. XXVIII, Issue 3

Mark Wahlberg Seeks Pardon for

Racial Violence

By Russell Tobias

Actor Mark Wahlberg paired with his hateful comments from nearly three decades ago.

1988, a 16-year-old teen sprinted through a dim street of Dorchester, a neighborhood in Boston, MA. Moments earlier, he had bludgeoned a Vietnamese man named Thanh Lam with a five-foot stick, offering no explanation other than a brief racial slur. With a police cruiser in swift pursuit, the teen approached another man a few blocks away, this time asking to hide with him. Before this man, Hoa (Johnny) Trinh, could make sense of the situation, he fell to the ground from a punch to the eye. The teen continued to run, only to be apprehended by police soon after. If this sounds to you like a violent, disturbed teenager in desperate need of discipline and guidance, your judgment serves you well. After serving only 45 days of jail time, however, this teen seemed to emerge a changed man – destined for a fresh start free of drugs, crime, and reckless hatred. Throughout the next few decades, this man’s career propelled him through various facets of the entertainment industry. From rapping to acting, and eventually accelerating into producing, this troubled teen from Boston has transformed into a $200 million dollar net-worth, awardsdecorated Hollywood celebrity: Mark Wahlberg. Mark Wahlberg may be among the wealthiest, most successful Hollywood actors of the day, but that doesn’t mean that his entire life has been nothing but fortune, good works, and fame. His teenage years are spattered with several vicious incidents of racially-motivated assaults. In recent months, however, Wahlberg has written to Massachusetts governor Charlie Baker requesting a criminal pardon for his previous acts of violence. Such a document would make him eligible to

ASIAN OUTLOOK

ne spring evening back in April

become a law enforcement officer, as well as aid him in racial epithets by 14-year-old Wahlberg and several of his moving forward with the expansion of “Wahlburgers,” the morally depraved associates. family-owned Boston restaurant chain. “I don’t really care who he is,” Atwood said. “It doesn’t Wahlberg, now 43, states he has long regretted his make him any exception. If you’re a racist, you’re always actions committed during his violent and aggressive going to be a racist. And for him to want to erase it I just youth. He emphasizes the great opportunities and think it’s wrong . . . It was a hate crime and that’s exactly success he has been afforded since he made the choice to what should be on his record forever.” turn his life around. Through his career, Wahlberg has In agreement with Atwood is former Assistant Attorney made numerous philanthropic contributions by ways of General (MA) Judith Beals, who issued a civil rights founding the Mark Wahlberg Youth Foundation for at-risk injunction against Wahlberg following the 1986 attack. The teens, and supporting the Boys & Girls Clubs of America subsequent crimes committed against Thanh and Trinh and The Good Shepherd Center for Homeless Women and only a couple years later seem to indicate that absolutely Children. no lasting lesson was learned from this injunction. Johnny Trinh was contacted by Mail Online about the Beals elaborates that granting a pardon would simply incident. A married clarify that father of two, Trinh Wahlberg is a mentioned not beneficiary of white knowing the name privilege, and would of his attacker do an incredible from 26 years ago, disservice to the and especially had at-risk youth who no idea that he depend on the - Former Assistant Attorney General (MA) actor’s had become such a charity well-known actor. Judith Beals work. She writes, Most importantly, “A formal public he is willing to forgive Wahlberg and would like to meet pardon would highlight all too clearly that if you are white him to let him know face-to-face. and a movie star, a different standard applies. Is that really In an interview with Mail Online, Trinh commented what Wahlberg wants?” on his feelings toward the situation. “He was young and With his criminal conviction on record he could be reckless but I forgive him now. Everyone deserves another denied licenses to expand his restaurants into California chance . . . I would like to see him get a pardon. He should and many other states. As this pardon request is under not have the crime hanging over him any longer.” review, careful consideration should be placed on the Trinh is a 59-year-old veteran of the Vietnam War. He nature of the request. Why now as opposed to immediately explained that his blindness in one eye, long believed to be after he emerged from prison as a “changed” man? If the a result of the confrontation with Wahlberg, was actually an strictness of state policy in granting business licenses injury sustained earlier as he fought alongside the U.S. in based on criminal history is the underlying motive for battle. the pardon, shouldn’t that bring into question those state Despite Trinh’s forgiving nature, many are policies before an attempt is made to tamper with a federal understandably skeptical of Wahlberg’s motivation in record? On the other hand, if sincere remorse is the requesting the pardon, and cannot help but wonder why motive, why has it taken nearly 30 years to approach the he has not yet offered to apologize in person. Specifically, cusp of an apology? These are but some of the questions a group known as 18MillionRising.org (18MR), which that are worthy of answering before a decision is made on promotes civic engagement among Asians and Pacific this matter. Islanders living in the United States, has vocalized its stance on the issue. A petition circulating their website Sources: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2868589/Mark-Wahlberg-sallows the public to declare opposition to the pardon, blinding-race-attack-victim-Johnny-Trinh-backs-bid-pardon-saying-coursedescribing the motive as business-inspired rather than forgive-didn-t-blind-Communist-Vietnamese-did-that.html remorse for wrongdoing. Nearly 3,000 signatures were http://www.bostonglobe.com/lifestyle/names/2014/12/05/mark-wahlbergobtained as of early December 2014. That number has applies-have-assault-erased/aKpkxGoIRwcKU1aSOhCrtN/story.html http://www.msnbc.com/msnbc/mark-wahlberg-under-fire-requesting-parsince quintupled to over 15,000 signatures, which is more don-amid-racist-unrest than 60% of the group’s target amount. http://hollywoodlife.com/2014/12/11/mark-wahlberg-pardon-hate-crimeAlso voicing concern is Kristyn Atwood, an African victim-forgives/ American Bostonian who was attacked by the teenage http://www.washingtonpost.com/news/morning-mix/wp/2015/01/21/ mark-wahlberg-racial-violence-victim-says-actor-shouldnt-be-pardoned/ Wahlberg during a fourth-grade trip to the beach back in http://www.mass.gov/governor/ 1986. She and her classmates were pelted with rocks and http://action.18mr.org/wahlberg/

“A formal public pardon would highlight all too clearly that if you are white and a movie star, a different standard applies. Is that really what Wahlberg wants?”

Vol. XXVIII, Issue 3

Interview/

Sorah Yang Interviewed by Calvin Chan & Ting Lin Transcribed by Calvin Chan

Univeristy of Southern California, Sorah Yang is currently a Youtube Star

raduating from the

the

multi-talented

and

a performer. She excels both in singing and dancing as shown in the videos uploaded on her youtube channel. Her most popular videos have each garnered more than a hundred thousand views . As one of the guest performers of Asian Night 2014, Sorah Yangâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s passion for the arts is clearly shown as she performed. Her humbleness and charm captured many fans that night. After the event, Asian Outlook had the opportunity to interview her.

ASIAN OUTLOOK

[Ting] You inspire a lot of people, young and old, with your message and your talents. Who inspired you to be the person you are today? Who inspired me to be the person I am today? I think my family, my parents for sure and my grandparents, seeing what kind of people they are. And also my friends – and how great human beings they are. Just wanting to be as good as the people I surround myself with. [Ting] Typically Asian parents, they want their children to be either doctors or go into the STEM field. Were your parents supportive of your decision to become a dancer? I think Asian parents, in general just want their children to succeed and be financially comfortable because they had such a hard time as immigrants and they struggled so much in their journey coming here. I think once I showed my parents that I could take care of myself, while following my dreams, they had obviously no opposition to that. So I feel like, if you want your parent’s support, they’re not going to support you if you’re struggling, but if you can show them that you can do it. [Calvin] Have you always wanted to become a performer? Where did you start and what kind of challenges have you faced along your journey?

I actually haven’t been performing all my life. I’ve been singing forever, since my dad is also a musician, but I was an athlete. I played basketball from elementary school to high school. So no, I didn’t think I would ever pursue this till after I graduated college. [Calvin] Why did you start dancing and singing, instead of playing basketball? Oh, because I’m really short. [Calvin] Was it difficult to balance your life as a performer and as a student? Oh yeah (laughs). I basically didn’t have a social life in college and I also didn’t sleep. And my grades suffered a little bit as well. So I definitely had to make like big sacrifices, but I wanted it bad enough so I made it work. [Ting] You recently graduated from USC with a business degree. Why did you choose this particular major? How does it relate to what you’re doing now? My major was business, but my concentration was in marketing, so that’s what academically I was really interested in – marketing. And with marketing comes the concept of branding and I feel like it’s been really, really relevant – because me now, I’m on my own as a freelance artist. I have to promote myself. In order to

Sorah Yang singing in one of her uploaded videos on Youtube.

Vol. XXVIII, Issue 3

[Calvin] Have you collaborated with any Korean choreographers? Yes. It was interesting because I’m not good at Korean and they basically couldn’t speak English either, so there’s definitely a language barrier – but the great thing about dance is that it’s very physical and universal. So we were still able to create something together even without being able to verbally communicate with each other. [Ting] What advice would you give to someone who maybe wants to start dancing, but isn’t sure? Oh, new dancer! I would just say – have fun. If it’s something that’s not fun for you, then you shouldn’t do it. I feel like the core reason why anyone dances, whether they’re an amateur or a professional is because it’s fun. So, I feel like if it’s a fun thing for you to do, you should do it. And if it develops into something more serious, then let your passion kind of drive it. Direct you, I guess is the word. [Ting] What do you do on bad hair days? What do I do on bad hair days? Feel really bad about myself. Wear hats or tie my hair up in a ponytail. And just have low self esteem (laughs).

promote myself as an independent freelance artist, I had to understand how to brand myself and promote myself – so, it’s actually been really, really useful in that sense. [Ting] You’ve studied in Korea. What influenced your decision to study abroad? Well entering college, I definitely knew I wanted to study abroad, because I’ve heard that it’s the most fulfilling time in college. Because I’ve never been to Korea before and I’m Korean American, I thought it was important for me to check out my roots, ancestry, and things like that. It just helps you to understand yourself a lot more.

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[Ting] Before we wrap this up, is there anything you would like to say to your fans? Oh, my gosh! There’s not enough I could say. It’s really hard being an artist in the public eye. I don’t think people realize it, because our art is like an extension of our soul, as dramatic as it is. And it’s really hard to share that – to get support for that is crazy and necessary to keep going. I appreciate everything. I see every comment and I notice everything so I really appreciate it. For more info on Sorah Yang, check out her youtube channel: www.youtube.com/user/sorahyang

Interview/

Getting to Know

Ryan Mitchell Grey Interviewed by Dale Gao Transcribed by Shelley Shin

orn and raised in the urban

Queens, New York, 22-year old Ryan Mitchell Grey began a journey to find his way into people’s hearts. His interest in music began as a child when his father began to leave remnants of his musical past lying around the house untouched, leading Ryan to play around with the instruments. When he was in high school, his cousin introduced him to Kanye West, which piqued an interest in hip-hop that has stayed with him since. After Ryan’s high school years, Ryan started out with making covers on YouTube, before producing his own original music. Today, Ryan has released four EP’s, his most recent one being “Moceans,” and has gotten quite successful on YouTube. He now has over 40,000 subscribers, and Binghamton University had the pleasure of having him perform during Asian Night 2014, and Asian Outlook was given the opportunity to ask him a few questions. streets of

Vol. XXVIII, Issue 3

Ryan Mitchell Grey’s EP “Moceans” released in the summer of 2014.

Dale: Did your household have an effect on your choices and career path as a musician?

Dale: This summer you released another EP, “Moceans”. Can you tell me the meaning behind that title?

Ryan: My dad was a musician. He loved playing music. He didn’t really take it up as a career but he does love music. I could say just the support from my family is kind of what anchors me and pushes me forward.

Ryan: You know, by then, this is my fourth release and everything since then has been just going with it. I had no idea four years ago that I’d be where I am today. So, this CD is kind of the culmination of all those moves that I’ve made to be here where I am. The song in the EP “Moceans,” I talk about how I’m waves away from where I’m supposed to be and I feel like that’s how it’s always going to be. These waves are just pushing me and pulling me in totally different ways. But I’m just going to go with it. I think this just solidifies who I am right now — just going with that.

Dale: So you’re currently performing solo? How is it? Ryan: Yea, I’m just doing music with myself pretty much. Just taking the challenge of doing what it took four guys to do but now one. Just taking that challenge — it’s been teaching me a lot. A lot of discipline and patience. Dale: Back in 2010, you released your first EP “Surrounded by White Walls” — how did you feel when it first came out? Ryan: Oh man, it was so crazy. It was a moment in my life where I finally took something from my brain and made it into a tangible piece in this world. It’s surreal, mind-opening, and life-changing. It’s really the kind of step I needed to take to establish that this is what I wanted to do for the rest of my life.

ASIAN OUTLOOK

Dale: Throughout your career, you traveled across the nation, to Australia and Canada. How was it? Ryan: Oh man, it’s cool. Not too much of a culture shock — just more of a wow I can’t believe I’m here. Australia and Canada are primarily English speaking countries but just the thought of music taking me across a border into a land unknown is just amazing. It’s amazing and it’s further solidifying my career choice — this is what I want to do. I love traveling and it brings more to write about.

Dale: Where do you see yourself in five years?

Dale: A simple Haiku?

Ryan: Five years, I see myself doing what I’m doing now. Just on a different scale of production. I started off just writing the songs. Now with “Motions” I recorded the whole thing — I did the entire production. Hopefully I can put myself in a position where I’m handling bigger things and harder work. But ultimately, just continuing, perfecting my craft, and putting my ideas out there.

Ryan: A simple haiku? Alright, a simple haiku, nice I like it. Okay… .

Dale: Do you have any advice for someone who wants to start a career through Youtube? Ryan: Use it as a tool. That’s what it is — it’s a key to social marketing. It’s not the only key, there’s so much more to use and there’s so much more to facilitate your talents through. But Youtube is awesome. It’s an awesome tool. Just work on the craft and learn the basics and keep building from there. Dale: I know you did some poetry during junior high school and high school. Would you mind spitting some lyrical masterpieces right here? Ryan: I don’t know about that…I mean.

Just did a great show Wondering what to eat now Music is for life

Dale: Before we wrap up, is there anything you’d like to say to your fans? Ryan: Thank you for always being there for me and being with me through all the trying times. Thank you for the love because I hope I can give you all the love back. To support and listen to Ryan’s latest music and song covers, check out http://www.youtube.com/rgbreezy. Image Sources: http://s3.sonicbids.com/image/band/108251/526f1cbb83176505d8c9dde2_original.jpg http://i.ytimg.com/vi/U_LyB2xl_fU/maxresdefault.jpg http://i.ytimg.com/vi/fri2rtyVxe4/maxresdefault.jpg

Vol. XXVIII, Issue 3Channel. Ryan singing one of his covers on his Youtube

Interview/

JRAQUINO Interviewed by Tina Yu Transcribed by Sharon Lau

Asian Night 2015, JR Aquino first started getting recognition for his singing talent on Youtube. He then participated in major singing competition shows such as American Idol and The Voice. Currently, he performs for crowds throughout the States. As a Filipino Amerian performer, he is an inspiration to the Asian community. s one of the guest performers of

ASIAN OUTLOOK

Tina: What inspired you to start singing?

“...that’s actually all I want, really. Five years, still doing music and to be able to share it...”

JR: My family. In Filipino culture it is a very normal thing to sing. We always have karaoke AKA magic mic. So, yea, I always grew up around with my dad singing. Tina: That’s awesome. What was it like growing up in Alaska? Your experiences are probably different from those of New Yorkers. JR: Yea, it’s just as cold, not as busy, but super isolated as far as I know. I’m just trying to do what I was doing in my career, but I am very grateful for what my life was like in Alaska. Tina: Do you think it had an effect on your development as a musician? And what about New York? JR: I think it does greatly. I think the mentality [did]. You know, I grew up in Alaska where it is very homey, open skies, all that stuff – so I kind of appreciate it. And it affects my musicality also – it affects me as a musician. It affects me as a musician because in New York there is all this hustle and bustle, it’s a little bit more aggressive out here in New York. Tina: Do you remember the first song you ever wrote? How has writing style changed since then? JR: The first song I ever wrote was a song called “All the Time,” and I actually wrote it in New York City. Yea, it has changed, greatly. I think as far as my writing style, it has gotten a little bit more evolved so it is a little bit different. But right now I’m in the transition of going a little bit more R&B. It used to be a little more acoustic pop.

JR Aquino performing on the singing show, The Voice.

Tina: Having been on American Idol and The Voice, tell us about your experience as a television star. JR: I wouldn’t say television star (laughs). I mean it’s cool. When I did American Idol, I was 16 years old so it was more of like, okay – an idea of what the world was like – so I tried it out. It was great. I made it to the top 44 in that season – season four. Yea and I’ve been fast forwarded to The Voice. I’ve already been doing YouTube. I was already travelling with shows – so eventually when I went on the show I was like, you know what, let’s just do this and see what happens. I wasn’t even trying to do anything to win anything. Came out and it was cool – it was cool.

Vol. XXVIII, Issue 3

Tina: I’m really happy for you. So recently you tweeted about upcoming projects for 2015, called #BSY. Can you tell us a bit more about that? JR: Yes! BSY is an acronym for a tour that would be happening. It’s me and two other individuals – so keep your eyes open. Tina: So cryptic... JR: Yes, I know – so cryptic. But, I will tell you, it’s in early 2015. Just keep your eyes open. Tina: Where do you see yourself in five years? JR: Five years? Hopefully, still doing music – that’s actually all I want, really. Five years, still doing music and to be able to share it with people. Tina: That is awesome. What advice would you give to someone who wants to start a career in music through YouTube?

JR: Hope you have a thick skin because you got to prepare yourself for critique. You have to be ready to take those kind of things. Just be consistent and know that you are doing it for a reason, and in the end, it is worth it – because honestly, you just gotta keep up with where the videos are. In the end, someone’s going to see it. If you’re trying to be famous, quote on quote, then I guess you have different reasons. But for me personally, I’m just trying to share music because people are affected by music. And the way it makes people feel means way more to me than being famous. With your “famous,” you can’t walk outside and go to the grocery store. Justin Bieber can’t walk outside to go to the grocery store, you know what I mean? Tina: Well, I think your passion definitely shows, especially on stage tonight. People were really into your show. Before we wrap this up, is there anything else that you would like to say to your fans? JR: Thank you very much. Without you all, I will not be where I am. And I hope you guys still keep on listening and supporting.

Members of Asian Outlook poses with the guest performers of Asian Night 2014.

ASIAN OUTLOOK

Check out JR Aquino’s music on his Youtube channel: www.youtube.com/user/JRAquinomusic

Five Awesome Things to See in Japan By Anastasia Zander

ave you ever dreamed of traveling to Japan?

Want to figure out cool places

to visit? Then I have the perfect list for you! Cross the Pacific and be sure to

check out these incredible places.

Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto

1. Tokyo Skytree is one of Tokyo’s newest broadcasting towers, and it’s humongous! At 634 meters high, it’s the tallest tower in the world and the world’s second tallest structure. This is evident since Skytree is visible from afar, high above everything else, but it’s even clearer when you’re up inside Skytree in the observation deck. Skyscrapers look tiny and far below since Skytree truly towers over the whole city, and you feel like you’re in the clouds. It’s definitely worth a visit if you’re in Tokyo.

2. Kyoto is filled with wonderful temples, shrines and other sights that remind visitors of a long-ago era. One temple that should be on your list is Kinkakuji, or the Temple of the Golden Pavilion. This strikingly gold structure looks lovely by a pond surrounded by trees, and is a great location for taking beautiful photographs. It’s one of the more distinctive and unique sights in Kyoto. 3. Fushimi Inari Shrine may sound unfamiliar, but there’s a chance you could recognize it: it’s an iconic Shinto shrine in Kyoto that is filled with thousands of orange torii gates. In many places, the countless gates form tunnels in the forest. If you enjoy hiking you’ll have fun climbing up the mountain around this special shrine. 4. On the outskirts of Kyoto you’ll also come across Arashiyama. This area is known for its scenic nature and famous landmarks, one of which is the bamboo groves. Arashiyama’s bamboo groves provide a great place to go on a stroll, and you’ll be surrounded by enormous bamboo. The bamboo stalks are quite tall, and the bamboo forest is peaceful and green. If you like to appreciate the wonders nature has to offer, this is the place for you.

Tokyo Skytree broadcasting tower

5. Have you ever heard of the city of Kobe? Well, once you’ve tasted Kobe beef and bathed in the hot springs, check out Kobe Luminarie! This light festival lasts a little over a week and takes place every December, which makes it a bit exclusive. For a few hours each night, during its annual run, streets are blocked off and huge crowds are herded through the city in an enormous line, all for Kobe Luminarie! Though the line is massive, the fantastic display of lights that await you is a special sight worth walking in the cold. Massive amounts of little light bulbs are illuminated to create large arches, structures, and designs. It’s an amazing way to spend an evening, which is why it has more than three million visitors each year. If you find yourself in Kobe in the fall, be sure to pay Kobe Luminarie a visit.

Kobe Luminarie

Sources: http://www.tokyo-skytree.jp/en/archive/spec/ http://www.ryuusenkaku.jp/english/kobe_luminarie.html

Vol. XXVIII, Issue 3

ASIAN OUTLOOK

KOREAN DRAMA REVIEW By: Tiffany Lam

our rookie reporters with very different personalities are hired by

rival

news

broadcasting

networks. The novice reporters pursue justice by uncovering the truths behind suspicious events while discovering themselves in the process. One particular reporter has Pinocchio Syndrome, which prevents her from telling lies. “Pinocchio” is a romantic comedy Korean drama that really brings laughter and tears to the audience as they watch the leads playfully bicker at each other while doing their jobs. Ki Ha Myeong, also known as Choi Dal Po (Lee Jong Suk), was an orphan adopted by Choi In Ha’s grandfather. He soon discovers that Choi In Ha (Park Shin Hye) is the daughter of Song Cha Ok, the reporter who tore his family apart. Over the years, he develops bittersweet emotions toward In Ha. When they are hired by competing news companies, Ha Myeong decides to defame Song Cha Ok in the industry but his feelings for In Ha keeps getting in the way. Although the popular drama has garnered high ratings, there were some flaws to consider in regards to

the plot. Personally, the story was progressing rapidly well towards the halfway mark, until concerns arose as to how the screenwriter would continue the drama. After the midway point, a new plot twistwas introduced, but the advancement was rather slow. Additionally, the writer failed to address some loose ends, leaving the viewers hanging. The storyline is atypical of many Korean dramas and conveys a very powerful message. Although there were some typical features of a love story, it is refreshing to see the leads not be together for reasons other than a villainous character trying to separate them; most dramas have evil mothers and envious supporting girl characters that make the show rather bland to watch. It is also uncommon for the main characters and the alternate leads to be friendly and supportive of each other. The memorable gang creates a lasting impression for me throughout the series. The media was intended to communicate the truth, yet ironically, it is also used to spew lies to cover up scandals. It is an influential

weapon that sways the public’s opinion. Inaccurately broadcasted facts and made-up stories can hurt and potentially destroy someone’s reputation. The drama’s underlying message is to uncover the facts of every story and to report their whole truths without compromise. Furthermore, the “Pinocchio” cast does a great job portraying their characters, especially Lee Jong Suk, Park Shin Hye, and Byung Hee-bong. Ki Ha Myeong and Choi In Ha cannot be together because of the former’s grudge towards Song Cha Ok and their adoptive uncle-niece relationship. The pair tugs heartstrings as the audience witnesses them overcome obstacles and finally achieve their happy ending. Another highlight is the touching relationship between Ha Myeong and Choi Gong Pil (In Ha’s grandfather, played by Byung Heebong). The need for each other for different reasons really moves the audience to sympathize with them. If you’re looking to start on a Korean drama, grab some tissues and get comfortable with “Pinocchio!”

The famous toast kiss between Lee Jong Suk and Park Shin Hye.

Vol. XXVIII, Issue 3

The promotional poster for Fresh off the Boat.

By Eric Liang

Introducing the First Asian American Sitcom

omething that present-day casting crews — for television, film, music videos,

— are understandably obsessed with is the delightfully vague concept of diversity (jazz hands). We are done with the era of token minorities; black guys dying in horror movies and smart Asian sidekicks have become awkward tropes in their own right. No, in the new fashion, everybody gets to be a minority. Why stick to the same few (white, male) faces when you can cast Jamie Foxx as Electro? When you can have Steven Yeun be your Glenn? When you can put Lucy Liu on the case as the freshly reimagined Joan Watson? You can practically hear the sound of audiences broadening and minority viewers identifying with these characters. Regardless, and perhaps even in spite, of this burgeoning media championship of diversity, there’s still a glaring issue at hand: no matter how many minority characters you stuff into a White Person Story, it unfortunately still remains a White Person Story. Foxx, Yeun, and Liu play supporting roles that would have been no different had they not been retconned as minorities (just look at the success of BBC’s Sherlock). Films like “Man of Steel” and “Interstellar” are the result when the tempting distraction of diversity is done away with, true and you name it

ASIAN OUTLOOK

This new sitcom is one of the 1st stabs in the industry at a story that is not a White Person Story.

The memoir by Eddie Huang which the TV series was based on.

pure White Person Stories. Let me ask you this: is there really any difference? Either way, we end up with the same tall, attractive, white main characters that could probably eat a regular meal and pass American flags on the toilet afterward. Diversity, in these cases, is just an advertising strategy that’s good for PR. Speaking of advertising strategies, let’s have a moment of silence for “Marco Polo.” The series is widely proclaimed as Netflix’s answer to a

certain medieval fantasy drama on another network. Diversity (again, jazz hands) was probably one of “Marco Polo’s” biggest advertising draws, featuring a gorgeous setting in dynastic Mongolia and a huge cast of Asians, in both lead and background roles. The catch? You got it: welldisguised as it may be, it’s still just a White Person Story starring the tall, attractive, and very Italian Lorenzo Richelmy as Marco Polo. Does he manage to rise to the top of the court

of Kublai Khan, capture the heart (and rather more private parts) of the beautiful Oriental princess and singlehandedly conquer cities and defeat armies? Surprise, you got it again. Enter one of spring’s newest comedy series, “Fresh off the Boat.” In the same vein as the 2005 series “Everybody Hates Chris,” this new sitcom is one of the first stabs in the industry at a story that is not a White Person Story. More specifically, it is real-life chef Eddie Huang’s personal Asian Person Story adapted for television. The main cast includes Randall Park (Kim Jong-un from “The Interview”) as Louis Huang, Constance Wu as Jessica Huang, and Hudson Yang as their oldest son Eddie. They play members of a Taiwanese American family newly introduced into a white neighborhood in Orlando, Fl. Much like Steven Yeun in “The Walking Dead,” they play Asians in a world of white culture. Unlike Glenn Rhee, the Huangs are totally lost in it. “Fresh off the Boat” is an

Vol. XXVIII, Issue 3

invigoratingly familiar glimpse into the Asian American experience that manages to capture the awkward and sometimes even humiliating moments that define it. Padded with humor that ranges from occasionally unconvincing to completely on-point, the Huangs find themselves facing countless obstacles in their quest for the American Dream — and manage to invent distinctly non-American ways to sidestep, tunnel under, and claw past these hurdles. Though the plot lines and jokes are nothing new, the actors do an excellent job of delivery, bringing a sense of realism, depth, and true Asian American family spirit to a mediocre script. Randall Park and Hudson Yang have standout performances in their roles, presenting believable characters and engaging dialogue. Where Louis Huang is a happy-golucky businessman with a big heart, Eddie Huang is an 11-year-old hip-hop fiend who constantly finds himself ostracized from both his Taiwanese and his American sides — evocative of some experiences from my own childhood. Constance Wu is no slouch either, but does present some awkward moments alongside her more appreciative ones. Her

accent is sometimes contrived, as if she can’t decide whether to be more Taiwanese or more American, and her delivery of some jokes is just not there. However, these few lines aren’t enough to make her presence unenjoyable. Wu executes the role of an Asian mom with sky high standards, and even brings a remarkable singing voice to the table. “Fresh off the Boat” is an unprecedented series that completely eschews the white perspective, except as a stark contrast to its own subject matter. It’s not about diversity in casting, but diversity in the medium itself. It is a flipped bird to the countless white American hero stories that have been told. Moreover, it presents thoughtful insight into what “Marco Polo” missed the mark on: how to be a foreigner in an unfamiliar and hostile environment, constantly struggling to be true to both yourself and those around you. While it may not be all-encompassing in terms of every facet of Asian American life, it is a worthy introduction with more than enough guffawinducing one-liners, all too relatable moments, and even endearingly cringe-worthy scenes to be worth the watch.

A scene from the pilot as the Huang family make the move from Washington D.C. to Orlando.

ASIAN OUTLOOK

Host Club 101:

Intro to Host Club Culture

hat are host clubs?

By Ying Xu

In Japan, they are places for nighttime entertainment, where customers can enjoy drinks, conversation, and flirtation with hosts, men who are paid for their company. Customers of host clubs go there to relax, unwind after a long day at work, or just to have fun in a place that expects you to treat it like a second home. Hosts are aged anywhere from 18 to their 30s, and they often have various skills that allow them to entertain their customers further, such as magic tricks, comedy, dance, or storytelling. There are a wide variety of host clubs even within Tokyo: from discreet high-end, exclusive clubs in Ginza, one of the world's most luxurious shopping districts in the world, to shady, smaller clubs in the Shinjuku Shibuya district. Hosts compete with each other to achieve the highest sales, because pay is based on commissions on food and drink, the prices of which are often sharply marked up. The customers come from all levels of socioeconomic backgrounds, ranging from young office workers to wealthy housewives to company presidents. Customers are usually women, but hosts do not turn away men. It is the host's job to accommodate and entertain the customer, no matter what kind of person they may be, as long as they have money. For all intents and purposes, customers are using money to buy relationships with hosts, whose job is to talk with and flatter their clients. But it's not as superficial as it seems at first glance. Naoki Ishida, the proclaimed #1 host at Tokyo’s Club Fantasy says, “Hosts are idols that you can actually meet.” Host clubs are indicative of recent,

It’s the host’s job to accommodate and entertain the customer, no matter what kind of person they may be, as long as they have money.

transformative elements in Japanese society and economy. Akiko Takeyama, an anthropology professor at University of Kansas said that a host club is a "stock market for romance.” Hosts cultivate their appearances, body movements, communication skills, and flair to appeal to the aesthetic preferences of their female customers/investors, much like idols design themselves to appeal to consumers. The customer is god, so many hosts like to groom everything about themselves to make their customers happy, from their hair to their nails to the way they light cigarettes. Yoshi, a 24 year old host originally from Osaka who works at Tokyo’s Club Fantasy, stated that "women are detail-oriented." Hosts must become an ideal, to maximize playing the part of a model friend or romantic interest. There are clear lines between a host and a customer, in order to play to the desires of the customer. A relationship with a host can be platonic or it can be physical, though the physical aspects of the jobs are encouraged to be contained in "off-hours." Yet why do women buy time with hosts, when it is clearly an illusion? To make an analogy, being in a real relationship would be much like researching a recipe you like, going to the market, selecting what you see as the best vegetables and foods, and going back home to put in the work and effort to cook it as best as you can. But a relationship with a host would be like being served gourmet food by a personal servant every day. It's a question of how and on what one would like to spend time and money. In western media, which tends to exoticize Japan, hosts

Local ad for host club Eden in Japan

Vol. XXVIII, Issue 3

are portrayed as feminine "geisha boys." Though "hosting" was traditionally women's work, an increasing amount of men are interested in becoming hosts in order to break free from the rigid, low-incentive system of a salaryman's workplace and lifestyle. In contrast to salarymen, hosts are not required to have academic backgrounds or maintain rigid work hours and a strict hierarchical status quo. In urban areas, there are few alternative careers for those without minimal education and job experience. Hide, a host who was a former salaryman said, ”Even with the salaryman job, the future is bleak. Even if you are lucky to avoid getting laid off and work with retirement, you can still barely afford a house." Hosting is not a reputable job, but host clubs are accepted as businesses and not as an official part of the sex trade. And though hosts themselves may seem low on the social ladder, they come out on top in the complex relationship between monetary flow, commodity value, and social desirability. Salarymen earn money to give to their wives and households, but that money in turn may be spent on hostesses (on the husband's part) and hosts (on the wife's part). Some hosts are former salarymen. Takeyama asserts that hosts are able to live with a more "flexible lifestyle, individual freedom, and . . . creativity." But the downsides of hosting include performance-based pay, health risks from daily heavy drinking, and pressure to maintain a glamorous appearance and style. The monetary burden forces many hosts to cut back on necessities in order to afford luxury brands and accessories to sustain their images. Most hosts quit within three months of starting.

Ouran High School Host Club, a popular manga adapted from the life of host culture

ASIAN OUTLOOK

Another host at Club Fantasy said,”Luck plays a big part in the hosting business." They look for "fat customers" such as wealthy wives, co-owners, businesswomen, and so on in the hopes of meeting the right woman and living the life of their dreams. Successful hosts can earn up to $30,000 a month. Being a host means negotiating between their own ambitions and the desires of others, including customers, club management, and Japanese socio-economic trends. Through selling intimacy, they are able to achieve extreme class mobility. At the same time, it also drives the exploitation and perpetuation of the negative aspects of host culture. Hosts themselves are aware of their commodification and that club owners are making profit off of them. Because the host industry is dependent on the consumerist power and decision-making of women, it is also a part of the modern social movement towards increasing freedom for both men and women. As women in Japan become more active in the workplace and break away from the traditional role of stay-at-home wife, they rebel against dependency and social inhibition for women. This social trend does not simply exist on the basis of the expansion of the host culture. In other fringe industries, women have been recognized as a source of financial and social power and as cultural leaders. For example, host culture is portrayed in highly popular media such as “Ouran High School Host Club,” a popular anime. As in real life host culture, luxury, extravagance, and idol-like men are seen as desirable for customers. Host clubs are escapist fantasies, where often imaginary relationships without the troublesome irrationalities of real life can be shoved out of the picture. As in animation and in real life host clubs, the female-oriented anime cafes of Ikebukuro (such as butler cafes) are commercial realizations of the literary and animation industry. Fictional fantasy and ideals are perpetuated to spread the practice of cultivating particular imagery and mannerisms into Japanese society. For example, even in conservative daylight society (as opposed to the night world of host clubs), tropes such as glasses-wearing character and prince-type personality are well-known. Host clubs and animation are highly influenced by female consumption of pop culture. Now, it is not only socially acceptable for men to visit hostess clubs; women have the financial and social capability to visit and guide the industry of host clubs. Host clubs thrive on the market through catering to women who have perceived an empty niche in Japanese society because of the conflict between a salaryman society and a rising class of financially independent and culturally influential women. Sources: http://kuscholarworks.ku.edu/bistream/handle/1808/6886/Takeyama_2010_Intimacy%20for%20Sale.pdf?sequence=1 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/m/pubmed/24984560 http://youtu.be/B1plfLlaviE www.zerochan.net/88252#full

Vol. XXVIII, Issue 3

Naruto: Series Finale no Jutsu Warning: Spoilers Ahead

By Dale Gao

fter

years

goodness,

ninja

“Naruto,” like all good things, came to an end. Written and illustrated by Masashi Kishimoto, the manga was first published as a pilot in 1997 and then serialized on Sept. 21, 1999 in “Weekly Shonen Jump.” From then on, “Naruto” acquired a huge a fan base through its weekly manga release collection in Japan that expanded to the entire world. As of September 2014, the series has had more than 200 million copies in print; this includes 130 million in Japan and 75 million in 35 countries worldwide. With a total of 72 volumes, one of the most popular manga has finally ended on Nov. 10, 2014.

ASIAN OUTLOOK

It only seemed like yesterday when Naruto Uzumaki was just 12-years old back in Volume I. An orphaned troublemaker in the Hidden Leaf Village, he was failing out of Ninja Academy and pulling pranks all around his village to seek attention. Being the carrier of the dangerous ninetailed fox spirit, Naruto garnered hate and resentment from the villagers on top of his pranks, but he still remained ambitious and determined. Through the journey Kishimoto has taken us, we this see this wannabe-shinobi grow up to be a fine ninja as he goes on to save his friends, village, and the world. Through the series, it’s inspiring to see Naruto work hard through

the hardships in hopes of achieving his dream of becoming Hokage, leader of the Hidden Leaf Village. Additionally, he must save his best friend, Sasuke Uchicha, from the temptations of hatred and darkness. Learning awesome techniques like the Multiple Shadow Clone Technique, Rasengan, Senjutsu and many more, Naruto has defeated numerous adversaries, saved many people, and finally received the recognition that he had longed for so many years. On top of that, he overcame and befriended the fox spirit that dwelled inside of him. Although it was a long and difficult journey, after 700 chapters, we finally see this ninja get what he deserved.

Creating a manga, especially one that is loved all over the world, is a lot of work. When asked how he felt after completing the last chapter, Kishimoto replied: “Because I just completed the last episode less than 12 hours ago, I do not have any real feeling (that “Naruto” has ended). I have had to meet a deadline every week for 15 years, so I feel that there’s a deadline for next week. I thought of many things to do after (“Naruto”) ends, but I do not know where to begin. I want to do something other than manga. Don’t worry, I will continue creating manga.” While it’s unfortunate that “Naruto” has ended, Kishimoto

revealed many projects that have yet to be released. One more anime film titled “The Last: Naruto the Movie” already debuted in Japanese theaters on Dec. 6, 2014. The plot takes place between Chapter 699 and 700 in the manga series, two years after the Fourth Great Ninja War, and will feature the blossoming love between Naruto and his fellow ninja Hinata Hyuga. Along with the film, Kishimoto will be working on a Naruto sequel miniseries for Spring 2015 that focuses on the children of Naruto, Hinata, Sakura, Sasuke, and others. In addition, a musical adaptation and an exhibit will be released in 2015.

In appreciation to the fans of “Naruto” during a special movie screening, Kishimoto said, “Thank you very much for keeping on looking at how Naruto has grown for such a long time of 15 years.” 15 years of drawing and storytelling is an outstanding feat and I’m looking forward to anything Kishimoto comes up with next. Believe it! Dattebayo~ http://www.saiyanisland.com/2014/11/ kishimoto-sensei-speaks-after-narutos-finale/ http://www.saiyanisland.com/2014/11/ narutos-masashi-kishimoto-feels-like-being-released-after-series-end/ http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/ daily-briefs/2014-11-08/naruto-manga-has-200-million-in-print-worldwide/.80771

Vol. XXVIII, Issue 3

From an American to a Korean American

By Debbi Shin

n July of

2012, I took a breath of Korean air for the very first time. Although I had never stepped foot on this land before, it already felt like my second home. My surroundings welcomed me with opened arms and heightened my excitement even more. Without any family members or friends, I scoped the beautiful city of Seoul with widened eyes, ready to explore. This was where my parents, grandparents, and ancestors had all grown up. This once agricultural society had blossomed into one of the most developed metropolises in the world. This nation, smaller than New York, had overcome grave hardships throughout history and still stands prideful today. All of the rich history and culture of

ASIAN OUTLOOK

Shin and her friends dressed in “hanboks.”

Korea defined some part of me that America could not; thus, I did not hesitate to embark upon my journey to find my Korean identity. I had arrived in Korea with 100 other young Korean Americans in a program that allowed us to tour the entire country for ten days. We each came with the same purpose: to experience and learn about our ancestors’ culture. So engrossed in our own American way of life, we were losing touch with our roots, which was why this trip was essential. Our Korean language skills were barely developed, and our knowledge of our culture was virtually nonexistent. Our parents sent us to Korea so that we could gain an appreciation and insight about the country that our ancestors

have lived in for many generations. The tour would help us see striking differences in morality, respect, and overall culture in order to broaden our idea of South Korea. Our first stop in the program was a Korean army camp. The instructors required both girls and boys to change into military uniforms, even down to the shoes and helmets. We were told to line up in two rows, where we were given blankets and pillows. Then, we slept side by side on wooden floors. Real army men served us our food in shiny metal trays and proceeded to eat after everyone else was finished. We also had to walk single file and take each step in synchronization; if we stepped off count, the instructors punished us by directing us back to the starting point. This was a difficult but rewarding experience, because I gained more respect for all army men around the world who lived this life everyday. Additionally, I had the opportunity to experience what my father, uncles, and grandfathers had gone through during their time. Obviously, we were not assigned the same harsh military training as they were assigned. Thankfully, we did not need to handle any guns! This experience helped me ponder about my family’s past and connected me to both the history of Korea and the history of my family. The next day, the tour guides brought us to the National Museum of Korea where there were a plethora of beautiful artifacts, sculptures, and paintings. The porcelain ceramics

in particular had caught my eye, as the curator explained to us that they exemplified one of Korea’s greatest talents in history. She also explained how various imperialistic countries had stolen many of these ceramics due to its exceptional beauty. I looked at the pots in awe, as they were so symmetrically and uniformly crafted as if they had been made by a machine. I wondered if my ancestors had kept some of these pots in their home. Were they merely pots in my ancestors’ eyes or something even greater? I highly admired their aesthetics and viewed them as very

I believe I went to Korea as an American, and came back as a Korean American.

culturally significant. To me, these pots represented a distinct, artistic talent by my ancestors, which I wished to display and preserve. Another unforgettable part of the museum was the Korean traditional dresses exhibit. There were some dresses, called “hanboks” in Korean, that observers could try on. Without any hesitation, I rushed to the line with

Shin and her fellow 2011 Korean American Youth Coalition members pose in front of the Bomunsa Temple in Ganghwa, Incheon.

Vol. XXVIII, Issue 3

This experience helped me ponder about my family's past and connected me to both the history of Korea and the history of my family. of Lotte World, Korea’s major amusement park, looking inward at the possible sights where my mother and father had met for the first time. In some way, I felt connected to the town, as if my mother’s own memories had been ingrained into my own. I imagined the entire life that my family had had before I was ever born and I appreciated the environment for crafting my parents into very humble and kind people. A visit to my grandparents on my father’s side had also evoked this same sense of appreciation. They lived on the countryside, not too far from the major city; their small and modest home was far different from my home back in America. In my grandparents’ apartment, gnats were ignored, blankets were used as beds, and televisions were small. The food my grandmother purchased from the local market rather than the conventional supermarkets was far more organic and delicious. Living in their home was very special to me because their home reflected the surroundings in which my parents grew up. I realized that my parents’ simplicity and modesty had stemmed Program attendees experienced one day as soldiers in the Korean army. from this very environment. Yes, the times have changed since then and conventionality is all I know; however after my friends, and dressed myself in the most beautiful (but experiencing life in this home, I wanted to return home to very uncomfortable) traditional dress that I could find. my parents as a simpler and nobler daughter. After gaining much knowledge about South Korean It consisted of many layers, each made with both tough culture as well as a first-hand experience, I became more and silky fabrics. Because a modern wardrobe consists involved with spreading Korean culture and awareness. I of light, cotton t-shirts and denim jeans, when wearing joined the Korean American Student Association (KASA) such extravagant and complex garments, I felt like I right here on campus, and am now a part of the executive traveled back in time when these dresses were worn daily. board under the cultural chair position. I hope to share I imagined my female ancestors wearing these colorful with the members of this group what I had learned in dresses every day and how simple but beautiful they must Korea through the events I will host, which includes have looked. Korean Banquet as well as Korean Night. Hopefully, these One of the greatest experiences I had in Korea, however, events will evoke a sense of pride within Korean American was not during the program, but rather when I ventured students and prompt them to further spread cultural through the streets of my mother’s hometown of Jamsil, awareness. I will never forget my time in Korea and the Seoul. I imagined my mother during her youth, walking amount of knowledge and appreciation of the culture down the street with spicy rice cakes in one hand and that I returned home with. I believe I went to Korea as an Korean yogurt in the other. I guessed which roads she American, and came back as a Korean American. must have taken to get to school, and what experiences she must have had as a child. I stood upon the highest balcony

ASIAN OUTLOOK

conscience

Photo by Shelley Shin

Vol. XXVIII, Issue 3

Sharonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Study Abroad Experience Sharon posing with flatmates on the London Bridge and grabbing Dim Sum.

Photos by Sharon Lau

ASIAN OUTLOOK

Greediness for Happiness By Ellie Ono Staring into the dark, cloudless night filled with bright, shining stars, I feel so insignificant compared to the vastness of this world. Something as simple as this, I feel so content But this content feeling is soon forgotten. Living every day of my life in a routine: Wake up, get dressed, eat breakfast, so on and so forth What is this all for? I am greedy for this so called happiness that everybody seems to live for, When in reality this happiness is short-lived. We accomplish goals and achievements and feel content. Then what? Then we strive for more, our hearts never fully satisfied. We always want more. We are greedy for this short-lived happiness that we all fight for. But the amazing thing is Is that even though this happiness is short-lived, The taste of happiness is the best feeling in the world No one and nothing should ever take that away. Is it worth all the pain, the tears, the endless amount of effort we put in? Yes, yes indeed. Be greedy for your happiness.

Vol. XXVIII, Issue 3

Come and Go

By Angela Wu

A supernatural feeling of No pressure weighing me down, No doubts seeping through my mind, No attachments holding me back. Breathing in the cold air as I watch the snow Fall with grace under the spotlight of a lamppost. A blank stare and sigh of mist washes over my face, I strut up the frost covered path. A perpetual beam of light Shining down my neck with an almost burning sensation. Slowly searching for a spot with more shade, Drips of sweat playfully trickle down my neck Causing an overall coolness. Finding a middle ground as I lean against the stump of a tree, Stretch my legs out onto the prickliness of the freshly cut green grass As the sun warms the skin of my legs But my face is covered by the protection of the umbrella like tree. The beating of my heart and the inhalation of air Is enough to hold me together. I look through transparency Watching the sun warm shriveled up leaves. The blanket of light and warmth Supplying them with their final moments of resurrection Before they go back to the underworld As the sunlight appears and disappears. These moments never last long Because I cannot remain in this state forever. It is only a temporary goodbye until the next time As these moments come and go

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East Gym, SUNY Binghamton University Photo by Tammy L. Cheng

Vol. XXVIII, Issue 3

Her Enigma By Kahlil Stultz

She is mystery, like starlight captured between quiet snowcapped mountain tops. In splendor, and in solemn moonlight she walks, a quiet testament to holy creation. Like sweet drips of nectar soaking the folds of a pear blossom, she sings to me. And her smile so sweet, chrysanthemums and all the flowers of the forests are garish and plain.

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