Category: Culture
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Personality Tests in East Asia
Personality tests have long been a popular trend worldwide, but in East Asia, they hold a unique place in both professional and personal life. In countries like South Korea, Japan, and China, these tests are often used not just for entertainment but as tools for career placement, relationship building, and self-discovery. The influence of these… Read more
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How Asian-American Communities Are Preserving Their Language
For Asian-American communities, language is more than a means of communication—it’s a vital link to their heritage, culture, and identity. In a multicultural society like the United States, where English dominates, the challenge of preserving native languages can be significant. However, many Asian-American families are working tirelessly to ensure that their languages—and the cultural traditions… Read more
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What is Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights?
Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is an eight-day Jewish holiday that celebrates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. The holiday commemorates the recovery of Jerusalem and the subsequent rededication of the Second Temple at the beginning of the Maccabean Revolt against the Seleucid Empire in the 2nd century BCE. Hanukkah… Read more
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K-Pop: Why Is It So Popular?
In recent years, K-Pop music, also known as Korean pop music, has began soaring in popularity. Especially with the success of Psy’s “Gangnam Style,” Korean music began spreading throughout the world, leading to a wave of Korean culture, such as its music, gaining popularity around the world. In the 2010s, many K-Pop groups emerged, such… Read more
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The Role of Faith and Spirituality in Asian-American Communities
If I were to ask people about religions they associate with Asian Americans, many people would likely mention Buddhism, Hinduism, and Islam. However, Asian Americans are a part of many faiths outside of the standard ones that most people think of. Faith and spirituality play a significant role in the lives of many Asian-American communities,… Read more
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What is Diwali?
In Hinduism, Diwali is known as the festival of lights, with different variations celebrated by other Indian religions. This year, the holiday is from November 10 to November 15, less than a week from now. The use of lights during this festival symbolizes the victory of light over dark and good over evil. Some of… Read more
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What is Chong Yang Festival?
The Double Ninth Festival, also known as the Chong Yang Festival, is occurring on Monday, October 23, 2023. While many people may not have heard of this holiday, it’s celebrated within multiple Asian countries, even if its popularity varies between these countries. This festival is celebrated in Shinto shrines and Buddhist Temples, and it is… Read more
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What is Hmong New Year?
Hmong New Year, celebrated by the Hmong people across the globe, marks the end of the harvest season and the beginning of a new year, typically taking place from September to December, depending on where the Hmong live. This vibrant festival is a time for family reunions, cultural performances, and the reaffirmation of Hmong traditions… Read more
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How Asian-American Neighborhoods Shape Urban America
Asian-American neighborhoods like Chinatown and Koreatown have long been vibrant, cultural hubs in American cities, offering rich histories, economic vitality, and unique cultural contributions. These enclaves, scattered across major cities such as New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Chicago, have shaped the urban landscape of the United States in profound ways. By preserving cultural… Read more
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What are Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur?
Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur are the two most significant holidays in the Jewish calendar, known as the High Holy Days. Rosh Hashanah is also known as “Jewish New Year,” and Yom Kippur is also known as “Day of Atonement.” They mark a period of reflection, self-examination, and spiritual renewal. Rosh Hashanah will start on… Read more