The Korean Experience

The Korean Experience Review

Koreans are the largest ethnic minority in Japan, and their highest concentration is in Osaka. Known as zainichi, after decades, in some cases centuries, of "assimilation" they have only recently begun to proclaim their traditional heritage and use their Korean names. By 2004 a wave of Korean tarento (talent) ruled TV and cinema screens across Japan. The most popular was Bae Yong-jun, affectionately known as Yon-sama. You may not be able to see Yon-sama in person, but you'll get an eyeful of him from the posters outside restaurants in Tsuruhashi, Osaka's Korea Town. For a fun evening feasting on excellent, affordable yaki-niku (Korean-style barbeque) take the west exit of JR Turuhashi Station and step into any one of the restaurants lining the narrow street. Many also specialize in Kobe beef, an added treat.