The Root of Success in Korean Cloning

Korea is currently leading the industry of cloning. There are many cultural and social aspects to why Koreans are leading this industry. David Plotz identifies a theory identified as the “Chopstick Theory of Scientific Supremacy” in his article titled, “The Seoul of Clones.” Plotz states Koreans eat with “narrow, metal chopsticks. Nabbing grains of rice with slippery, steel sticks requires a surgeon’s dexterity” (Plotz, 2005). While this example seems ridiculous, if one dissects the meaning, it can make sense. Koreans are the only Asians that utilize chopsticks that are, quite frankly, hard to use. Japanese and Chinese use thick wooden chopsticks and everyone else in the world uses western utensils or their bare hands to eat.

Korean ethics in the workplace is just as meticulous as the chopstick example; they constantly work, sometimes seven days a week, through holidays, and usually until their task is complete, not when their business closes for the day. This ethos of work is highly influenced by the deep cultural beliefs of Confucianism that is embedded in their society. “Confucianism teaches that workplaces should be run as benevolent hierarchies, with younger and junior people obediently taking guidance from seniors” (Plotz, 2005). Western ideologies promotes individualism, while Confucianism based societies work to support the balance of the chain of command, ultimately giving the boss/supervisor credit for their hard work. Especially with the men (and women) in the Korean workforce, this chain of command structure is nothing new due to the mandatory military service (for men, ages 18 to 35) requirement that is enforced by the government.

There are most influences within the social patterns of South Koreans ...

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...s/documents/endeavors/volume3/JoshPark.pdf Assessed May 23, 2012.

Poleg, Dror. “Was ‘Confucianism’ important to the Economic Development of Japan and South Korea?” Drorism, January 26, 2011. Web: http://www.drorism.com/2011/01/the-role-of-confucianism-in-the-economic-development-of-japan-and-south-korea.html Assessed May 23, 2012.

Plotz, David. “The Seoul of Clones.” Slate Magazine, October 19, 2005. Web: http://www.slate.com/articles/news_and_politics/how_they_do_it/2005/10/the_seoul_of_clones.html Assessed May 22, 2012.

Scanlon, Charles. “S Korea’s ‘disgraced’ national hero.” BBC News, November 25, 2005. Web: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/4468812.stm Assessed May 23, 2012.

Veale, Jennifer. “South Korea’s Pet Clone Wars.” TIME, February 10, 2009. Web: http://www.time.com/time/world/article/0,8599,1878398,00.html Assessed May 23, 2012.