Kim’s Convenience, and Asian Dad Stereotypes

By: Sam Chan

My family is re-watching the TV comedy Kim’s Convenience.

We enjoy watching Appa – the dad in the family. Especially the way he says: “OK see you.”

Like all sitcom family dads, Appa is the bumbling, goofball dad.

But at the same time, there’s a hole in his heart. He longs to be reconciled with his estranged adult son, Jung. What’s the point of saying, “OK see you,” if his son isn’t seeing him?

This is why “Kim’s Convenience” has universal appeal – even if you’re not Korean-Canadian.

We resonate with the ache in Appa’s heart.

But where does this ache come from?

We can only know what it’s like to be estranged if we too have been estranged.

And that’s exactly it. The Bible says we’re all estranged from God – the original Appa – who loves us.

But that’s why God sent his Son Jesus to reconcile us. In Jesus, we cry out Appa to God our Heavenly Father. And God cries out, “OK See You” to us.

Romans 8:14-17
Mark 2:11
Ephesians 2:13

About the Author: Sam is a theologian, preacher, author, evangelist, ethicist, cultural analyst and medical doctor.

Article supplied with thanks to Espresso Theology.

Feature image: Publicity