SOP suggestions?

[Bonobo]

I am now a host for this group and would like to ask if anyone thinks we should have an SOP? If so, what is important to you?

One thing I would suggest is that we keep divisive Asian politics out of here.

[Bonobo]

1. Just to clarify:

I am not against politics being in the Group absolutely, but I think there are certain topics that should not be allowed because frankly I can see the expats in China, Korea and Japan going at it over:

-Unimportant hunks of rocks in the South China Sea
-Chinese anti-Japanese riots
-Tibet
-WW2

But subjects discussing other politics, political systems, history would be no problem. I basically just think that this Group would be best to focus on the good, not the bad and our common experiences rather than divisive things.

[AsahinaKimi]

2. original SOP is

A group to discuss Asian culture, music, language, food, fashion, entertainment, art, history, traditions.

Think we should stick with that. I thought about being a host, however, there didn't really seem to be a need. If you would like to make me a host also, since I was the one who got this group started, by suggesting it to Skinner, I would gladly take that honor.

Oh, and Hello from South Korea, I just stopped by to wish everyone a happy holiday and happy New Year. I will be back to the USA after the New Year.

PS: My Parents dragged me here, but without too much screaming and kicking.

Kimi

[davidpdx]

3. Are you in Seoul?

It's cold isn't it?

It would be much better to visit in the spring when it's semi-warm.

Hope you have fun and get to see some of the sites.

[AsahinaKimi]

5. 4:26 AM, I still got Jet lag, and couldn't sleep.

I am in Gwangju City, South Korea. (Using my parents computer.) It is a bit cold! Glad I brought warm clothing. We are visiting family here for the holidays. If I get the chance I will do some traveling but I don't speak Korean, only a bit of Japanese. Some of my family know a little English, or try to speak it. My mom is fluent and speaks for us, (My Dad doesn't speak Korean either.)

Anyway, Bonobo san, I hope you consider me for a second host, onegaishimasu... or maybe I should say..haseyo ? (Yeah, thats about the only Korean I have learned!)

[davidpdx]

6. A lot of the older Koreans know Japanese

My FIL can speak Japanese fluently, but very little English. I'd say those that are in their late 70's and 80's probably do. One of my wife's friends is Japanese and she came to Korea for our wedding. She and my FIL were just going back and forth in Japanese really quickly.

[davidpdx]

4. I agree on it not being divisive

I think enough room should be left to discuss politics within each country. Elections and changes in governments do effect some of us DUers who live abroad. There is no International forum per se for Asia, so this is really considered it. Personally I would rather a forum separate from this one so this one can focus on Asian culture. Unfortunately the powers that be don't agree with me.

I have a bit of a vested interest in that I live in Korea. There are quite a few other American expats floating around DU, but connecting with them is hit or miss.

[yuiyoshida]

7. I like your ideas Bonobo san and Kimikos

This group should be as it was originally intended with lots of exposure to Asian culture, music and videos.. Food! There is so much people don't know about, like how people in South Korea celebrate Christmas, for example.

I have people asking me so many questions everyday, and I am fortunate to be in a very diverse city where you can learn about different cultures. Ever had Nasi Lemak before? You can learn what that is here if you just ask!!

People think Asia is mysterious, well its all here in this forum and people can learn new stuff everyday.. and of course Asian music is fantastic... and never heard across the USA unless its a specialized radio station on some obscure internet station.

SO yeah, I say lets keep it as it is...and good idea about the politics of the region.. We don't need that kind of drama every time someone is fighting over an Island or a plane has strayed slightly off course into someones territory!

Go for it.. Ganbatte!! Oh, and I would not mind being a mod if you need me but please promote Kimi, cause she got this whole thing started!!


And sis, have fun in South Korea!!

[Bonobo]

8. Okay, great.

It sounds like we all agree that we want to use this forum to promote Asian culture and would like to also spread the friendship among those of us who love China, Korea and Japan (and other) respectively.

I'd like to ask Kimi to be host and will do so!

Arigatou, Shay shay, and kamsahamnida!

[yuiyoshida]

9. Oh yay!

My sis will be a mod! Woot! I promise to be good, Kimi

[Bonobo]

10. Are you actual sisters? Or just in spirit? nt

[yuiyoshida]

11. Not related...

But old old friends! Kimi chan watashi no ii otomodachi desuyo!