This terrific blog I read has an amusing interpretation of the recent snafu committed by People magazine who apparently mistakenly fell into the "All Asians look the same" sandpit by placing a photo of Karl Yune (brother to moderately successful actor and model Rick Yune) next to a feature blurb on Asian pop singing sensation and Colbert's bitter rival, Rain. It's easy to chalk this up as yet another indicator of the US entertainment industry's whiteness and ignorance, and a good chunk of this probably is...BUT what about when the Asian paparazzi can't tell...Asians apart?
Needless to say, if the Asian paparazzi is mistaking me for Rain (albeit momentarily), then I think it's safe to say that all people -- Asians and non-Asians alike -- think Asian people look alike.
Read more here.
Anyway, people and People,
I can't stress this enough: please avoid the "All Asians look the same" sandpit at all cost. It's not a good place to be in. Also, dodge the need to inquire "Where Asians are REALLY from?" And lastly, sidestep the category of "Oriental" unless referring to rugs. Thanks.
Regards,
MRod