Kimchi and Coconuts

 I am a Polynesian who has called Korea home for the past ten years. My journey here has not been easy—I have faced unemployment, homelessness, and the disorientation of culture shock. Yet through it all, I embraced the simple steps that allowed me to connect deeply with this country: learning basic Korean, respecting its customs, and opening my heart to its people.

Over time, Korea became more than just a place I lived—it became a part of who I am. I immersed myself in the culture, finding joy in K-dramas, K-pop, Korean songs, and even falling in love with the bold flavors of kimchi. At the same time, I remain grounded in my Polynesian roots, carrying the values, traditions, and spirit of my homeland wherever I go.

I am united by both worlds. Korea shaped my resilience, empathy, and curiosity, while my Polynesian heritage reminds me of my origins, my community, and my identity. Together, they have made me adaptable, open-minded, and grateful—a bridge between cultures, able to honor the past while embracing the present. In living fully in both worlds, I have found not only belonging but a profound sense of self.

My two worlds!