The Hojeok Project

In this intro episode of "The Hojeok Project," hosts Tanya Martineau and Dr. Courtney Skiera-Vaughn introduce their community case study, which aims to explore the transnational Korean adoption experience and the impact of cultural identity on subsequent generations. They explain that they will be conducting ten interviews with Korean adoptees born in the 50s, 60s, and 70s who were raised in transracial homes, as well as with a child of each adoptee participant. The hosts outline their methodology, explaining that the interview transcriptions will be analyzed using the LUUUUTT model to identify themes and patterns in the narratives. They express the hope that this study will provide a better understanding of the lived experiences of transnational Korean adoptees and their descendants. Tanya will be sharing her personal journey as she explores her Korean identity as a second generation mixed Korean American and embarks on her quest to find answers to her mother’s birth family.

In the first episode of "The Hojeok Project," host Tanya Martineau shares her personal story and how it has influenced her journey to understand her Korean identity. Tanya begins by discussing her mother's adoption story and how it has impacted her own sense of cultural identity. She talks about growing up in an interracial home and how that influenced her upbringing as a biracial individual. Tanya then shares about her journey moving to Korea after her mother's passing, and how this experience raised questions about her own cultural identity. She candidly discusses the feelings of self-doubt and insecurity that emerged as she grappled with the question of whether she was "Korean enough." Throughout the episode, Tanya provides listeners with a window into her personal experiences, allowing them to gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of cultural identity and its impact on individuals and families. Her reflections and insights provide a framework for the project's mission to explore the transnational Korean adoption experience and its effects on subsequent generations. Through Tanya's story, listeners are invited to reflect on their own cultural identities and how they have been shaped by their experiences and upbringing. The episode sets the tone for the project, which aims to bear witness to the stories and experiences of transnational Korean adoptees and their descendants, providing a platform for their voices to be heard and their stories to be shared.

In this episode of "The Hojeok Project," host Tanya Martineau shares her personal journey with DNA testing and her search for answers about her mother's ethnic origin. Tanya opens up about the moment she received her DNA results, which confirmed her mother's Korean ancestry. As she embarks on a quest to find her mother's birth family, Tanya grapples with questions about her own cultural identity and what it means to be Korean. She shares her experiences reaching out to potential living relatives on her mother's side, and the emotional journey of waiting for responses. Throughout the episode, Tanya provides listeners with a glimpse into the complexities of exploring cultural identity and uncovering family history. She shares the highs and lows of her journey, including moments of hope and disappointment. As Tanya navigates this deeply personal quest, listeners are invited to reflect on their own journeys of identity formation and family history. The episode is a testament to the power of storytelling and the importance of bearing witness to the experiences of others. Ultimately, Tanya's journey serves as a reminder of the profound impact that cultural identity and family history can have on our lives, and the power of connection in the face of uncertainty.