Eileen’s Article: An Italian Hand on my Korean Arm

Romano loves to joke about our bodies, especially particular parts. He tells me, “Acting like this is common in Italy! All Italian men are same!” However, is it really possible that all men in his country are so extreme? Romano is the most over-the-top person that I have ever met.

When I first experienced Romano’s sexual behavior, I was so embarrassed and ashamed. I didn’t want to face my friend again. His actions felt unacceptable, because in Korea, nobody would ever imagine acting like that. If I were in Korea, Romano and I could never be friends. Korean people, especially Korean women, don’t accept sexual things, unless they are really intimate with the other person. For instance, Romano could even be arrested by a woman in Korea for his behavior, if she wanted him to be! If I had met my Italian friend in my home country, I might have punched him.

Italian + Korean + America = Culture shock!

But I am in America now, and so I didn’t punch him. Instead, as time went by, I became accustomed to my friend’s crazy behavior. I realized: for him, acting like this is very common, and so I finally accepted it. Once I accepted Romano for who he is, we became even closer friends. If I hadn’t adapted, our friendship would have died.

What’s funny is that I didn’t really experience culture shock in the U.S. until I met Romano. Because of the astounding experience I’ve had with him, however, I’m realizing: there are lots of contrasting cultures between countries! My strange friendship has made me realize we should be open to each others’ cultures and emotions, because there is a lot we won’t know if we just stick to ourselves.

The happenings with Romano were very serious at that time, but now I laugh. My friend still jokes with me constantly, but now I can receive it and give it back to him!