In a time when digital platforms are reshaping how cultures connect, one Korean content creator has found a unique way to bring Korea and Romania closer together — through TikTok. Kim Sung Gyu, known for his engaging videos about everyday life, language, and cultural experiences, has captured the attention of Romanian audiences with his sincere interest in their country.

The idea for this interview emerged after his content appeared on my TikTok feed, standing out for its genuine portrayal of Romania through a Korean lens. Surprised by the depth of his connection to Romanian culture, I reached out to learn more. The interview was conducted via email between May 28 and June 24, 2025, offering insight into the motivations behind his work and the growing Romania–Korea community he has helped shape online and offline.

INTRODUCTION & BACKGROUND

Can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?
My name is Kim Sung Gyu (김성규), but most people know me as Chris. I’m a content creator from Korea who fell in love with Romania. Through TikTok, I create videos that highlight the cultural connections between our two countries. My goal is to share not only Korean culture in an approachable way but also to show how beautiful cultural exchange can be when it’s genuine and from the heart.

When and how did your connection to Romania first start?
It all started a few years ago when I began chatting with Romanian friends online. I was curious about their language, traditions, and daily life. The more I discovered, the more fascinated I became. Eventually, I started visiting the country and quickly realized it wasn’t just a passing interest — I had truly connected with the people and the culture.

You’ve been coming back to Romania many times — what makes you feel drawn to this country?
Romania feels like a second home to me. It’s hard to explain, but there’s something about the atmosphere here — the kindness of people, the calm beauty of the countryside, the sense of tradition — that speaks to me deeply. I’ve made real friendships, and every time I leave, I feel the need to return. It’s more than a destination now; it’s a part of my life.

CULTURAL CURIOSITY & IMPRESSIONS

What aspects of Romanian culture caught your attention the most?
Family plays a central role in Romanian culture, just like in Korea, and I found that really meaningful. I was also impressed by the way tradition is preserved, even as modern life moves forward. Folk costumes, traditional music, local crafts — they’re still celebrated in everyday life. It feels very alive, not like something only seen in museums.

Have you experienced any cultural similarities or interesting contrasts between Korea and Romania?
Yes! Both cultures place a strong value on hospitality, respect, and emotional warmth. But I’ve noticed that Romanians tend to be more direct in how they express their thoughts and feelings, while Koreans are sometimes more reserved. I actually admire that Romanian openness — it makes conversations feel very real. It’s been a great learning experience for me.

Is there a Romanian place, food, or tradition that surprised or impressed you?
Food-wise, I have to mention sarmale — it reminds me a little of kimchi, not just because it uses cabbage, but because it’s such a national symbol. But the taste and the feeling are completely different. It’s comfort food, full of warmth and flavor. I was surprised how easily I adapted to Romanian food. My favorite dish overall is tochitură — I could honestly eat it every day! And as for places, I was stunned by how peaceful some of the monasteries and rural villages are. They have a timeless beauty.

SOCIAL MEDIA & CONTENT CREATION

Your TikTok account is dedicated almost entirely to Romania. What inspired that decision?
Initially, I didn’t plan for my content to focus so much on Romania. But the reaction from Romanians was so warm and supportive. They encouraged me to keep going. Their kindness motivated me to create more, and slowly, the content became focused on showcasing Korea–Romania connections. It felt natural, like a shared story we were writing together.

What do you hope to show or share through your Romanian-themed content?
I want to make Korean culture feel accessible and fun for everyone — not through lectures, but through daily life, humor, and shared experiences. Whether it’s trying snacks, learning slang, or talking about dating culture, I aim to break stereotypes and bring the two cultures closer together in a friendly way.

What kind of reactions do you usually get from Romanian followers? And what about Korean ones, if any?
Romanians have been incredibly supportive — many of them tell me that my videos helped them better understand Korea beyond K-dramas and K-pop. Some even started learning Korean! From Korean viewers, I sometimes get surprised messages like “Why are you speaking Romanian?!” But once they understand what I’m doing, they’re usually proud and excited to see someone building bridges. 

Do you feel like you’re acting as a bridge between the two cultures through your content?
Definitely. It’s a big part of why I keep going. When someone tells me they started learning Korean, or that they visited Korea because of something they saw in my videos — that’s the best feeling. I may be just one person, but I truly believe even small efforts can make a big impact when it comes to cultural understanding.

K-POP EVENTS & THE ROKO COMMUNITY

You’ve also started organizing K-pop parties in Bucharest. How did that idea come to life?
After seeing how many Romanians love K-pop, I realized there wasn’t really a space where fans could come together and enjoy it that often. So, I decided to organize a party — just one event, to test the waters. But the turnout was amazing. People were dancing, singing, and connecting. That’s when I knew it could be something more.

What has been the response from the Romanian community? Are there many people interested in Korean music and culture?
Yes — even more than I expected. At the first event, I thought maybe 30 or 40 people would show up. Instead, hundreds came. Since then, the events have kept growing. People are eager to connect, whether they’re hardcore K-pop fans or just curious about Korean culture. It’s about community more than anything.

Tell us more about ROKO — how did it start and what kind of people join the community?
ROKO stands for Romania–Korea, and it began as a name for the K-pop party series. But over time, it evolved into something more — a space for creators, fans, language learners, and anyone interested in Korean culture. It’s open to everyone. We’ve had collaborations, language meetups, and more ideas are on the way.

What does it mean to you, as a Korean, to see Romanians embracing Korean culture?
It makes me incredibly proud — not just as a Korean, but as a person who loves cultural exchange. Seeing Romanian fans dance to Korean songs or speak in Korean, even just a few words, really touches my heart. It shows that culture isn’t limited by geography. It travels, it connects, and it inspires.

MOTIVATION & FUTURE PLANS

You’ve mentioned wanting to live in Romania someday. What drives that wish?

It’s more than a dream — it’s something I’m actively working towards. I feel that I can make a meaningful contribution here, not just online, but in real life. Romania has welcomed me with open arms, and I want to give something back. Whether through cultural projects, language education, or community events, I want to be a part of building something lasting.

Have you faced any challenges in trying to find work or settle here?
Of course — like anyone moving abroad, there have been challenges. The visa process can be complex, and the language barrier sometimes makes daily tasks tricky. But every challenge is also a learning opportunity. What keeps me going is the support I’ve received from local friends and followers.

What are your goals for the future — either for your TikTok content, the K-pop events, or the community?
I want to grow all of it. I’d love to continue making creative, engaging videos — but also expand offline: offer Korean language classes, host cultural workshops, and create spaces where people can experience Korean food, art, and traditions. My ultimate goal is to turn cultural curiosity into lasting connections.

If you had the chance to create a large-scale Korean–Romanian cultural project, what would it be?
I would love to organize a full Korea–Romania Culture Festival. Imagine a mix of K-pop performances, Korean food trucks, hanbok try-ons, workshops about Korean language and calligraphy, even film screenings. Something that would let people immerse themselves in Korean culture for a weekend — right here in Romania.

REFLECTION & FINAL THOUGHTS

What do you think your story says about cultural exchange in today’s world?
I think it shows that cultural exchange doesn’t need big institutions — it can start with just one person and a phone. Social media gives us tools to connect across continents. What matters is authenticity and respect. If you truly care about the culture you’re sharing, people feel it.

What message would you like to share with people — Korean or Romanian — who are curious about other cultures or building communities?
Be curious and be kind. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, try new foods, learn a few words in a new language. These are small steps, but they can lead to deep friendships. Communities aren’t built overnight, but they start with a shared smile or a simple “hello.”

Would you like to add anything else?

Just this: thank you! Romania gave me a sense of belonging I didn’t expect to find so far from home. The love and support I received here changed my life, and I promise to keep doing my best to give it back — both online and offline.

Through his online presence and offline activities, Kim Sung Gyu has become an informal cultural ambassador, fostering dialogue and curiosity between Korea and Romania. His story highlights how digital platforms like TikTok can serve as powerful tools for cultural exchange, especially when driven by authenticity and mutual respect.

While his videos may be short in format, the impact they have on audiences — both Romanian and Korean — is long-lasting. As interest in Korean culture continues to grow globally, individuals like Kim Sung Gyu show how cross-cultural understanding can be built slowly through conversations, events and videos.