As the conflict in Ukraine rages on, a community of ethnic Koreans is finding ways to rebuild their lives amidst destruction and displacement. Despite facing numerous challenges, many are determined to preserve their traditions and sense of belonging.
The conflict in Ukraine has had far-reaching consequences, affecting not only the local population but also ethnic Korean communities who have lived there for decades. Despite the challenges and hardships, many ethnic Koreans in southern Ukraine feel at home and are determined to rebuild their lives.
Ethnic Koreans, known as Koryo-saram, have a long history in Ukraine dating back to the 19th century.
They were brought to the region by the Russian Empire as laborers and traders.
Today, estimates suggest around 300,000 people of Korean descent live in Ukraine, primarily in the Odessa Oblast.
Many maintain their cultural heritage through language, traditions, and cuisine.
However, they also face challenges adapting to Ukrainian society due to differences in language and customs.
For over half a century, the Mykolaiv region has been home to one of the largest settlements of ethnic Koreans in Ukraine. Most moved there from Central Asia in the 1950s and 1960s, fleeing the Russian Far East after being deported by the Soviet Union in the 1930s. Today, many ethnic Koreans still live in the region, maintaining their language and traditions despite the challenges posed by war.
Ethnic Koreans, also known as Chosŏn inmin, are individuals of Korean ethnicity who reside outside of North Korea and South Korea.
They can be found in China, the United States, Japan, and other countries.
Historically, ethnic Koreans were brought to these areas by colonial powers or migrated voluntarily for economic opportunities.
Today, they maintain strong cultural ties with their ancestral homeland while adapting to their adopted environments.
According to estimates, there are over 7 million ethnic Koreans worldwide.
Olena Pak, a resident of the rural Shevchenkove settlement, is a typical example of an ethnic Korean who has adapted to life in Ukraine. Her parents came from Uzbekistan in the 1970s and worked as farmers in the region. Today, Olena Pak continues to grow vegetables in her greenhouse, although she had to rebuild her business after the Russian invasion.
Oleh Pak’s husband, Oleh, also works as a farmer, but he has been involved in volunteering for the Ukrainian army since the start of the war. He is one of many ethnic Koreans who have joined the Territorial Defense Forces or provided support to the Ukrainian military.
Despite suffering during the war, many ethnic Koreans in Ukraine feel a strong sense of belonging to their adopted country. ‘We don’t want to leave, we feel at home here. This is our home and our country,’ ‘Olena Pak said’ , Her statement reflects the sentiments of many other ethnic Koreans who have chosen to stay in Ukraine despite the challenges.
Although some families have left the settlement due to destruction and land contamination, others remain determined to rebuild their lives. The Kogai family, which was evacuated to South Korea but later returned to Ukraine, is a testament to the resilience of ethnic Koreans in the face of adversity.
Their story highlights the complexities of identity and belonging, particularly for those who have been displaced or forced to flee their homes. Despite the difficulties posed by war, many ethnic Koreans in Ukraine are working towards a brighter future, one that will allow them to rebuild their communities and revive their traditions.
Identity is a multifaceted concept that encompasses an individual's sense of self, including their cultural background, social status, and personal experiences.
Belonging refers to the feeling of being connected to others, whether it's a community, group, or family.
Research suggests that both identity and belonging are crucial for human development and well-being.
A strong sense of identity can provide individuals with confidence and self-esteem, while a sense of belonging can foster social connections and emotional support.
As the conflict in Ukraine continues, the community of ethnic Koreans is working together to rebuild their lives. Many have joined online classes due to damage to the school, while others are living abroad or in other cities. However, despite these challenges, there is a sense of hope and determination among the community.
Their story serves as a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always a way forward. For ethnic Koreans in Ukraine, rebuilding their lives will require patience, resilience, and a deep connection to their heritage and community.
