Honorary Reporters

Sep 09, 2021

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By Honorary Reporter Samantha Atila from Brazil

Photos = Kim Ju Hi 


Kim Ju-hi aka Julia immigrated to Brazil with her parents in 1986 to help her uncle run his business. She said that despite not speaking Portuguese at the time, she and her family adjusted well to life in Brazil thanks to friendly neighbors and employees.


Her family did not experience the Korean War, but her parents underwent hardship under Japanese occupation of the Korean Peninsula. "My parents had to change their names into Japanese ones, study and speak Japanese, and deny their identity as Koreans, who have a history of more than 5,000 years,” Kim said.



With this in mind, Kim and the Korean consul in Sao Paolo began to think of how to mark Korean liberation in Brazil. To promote the significance of National Liberation Day of Korea, they decided to hang lanterns in the traditional Korean colors of blue and red to decorate the streets of the Korean-heavy district of Bom Retiro. 



The lanterns, in addition to commemorating Korean liberation, also express affection for Bom Retiro by its Korean residents.  


"I'm not a successful person nor am I rich. I still dream of achieving my goals. I am 52 and will still build my K-space. I will learn to play the guitar and drums. I am also going to backpack around the world to visit friends and places and conduct my secret life project," Kim said.  


"I started when I was 40, not knowing anything about the event sector, but I used grit because I had to support myself. So I advise you to take your time as everyone has their own season. Don't compare yourself to others."


She added, "This is your life and people will always comment and give opinions, so learn to ignore them. Finally, patience is the hardest thing in life. Be patient with yourself, time and life. You will arrive before you know it." 



kalhong617@korea.kr 



*This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.