Frequently Asked Questions & Resources
For those of you researching your Korean ancestry or tracing Korean roots in Mexico and beyond, here are some of the tips and resources that helped me in my own search. Whether you’re starting your family tree, curious about migration history, or simply want to understand cultural traditions, this page is for you. If you don’t see your question answered, feel free to send me a direct message on Substack—I’d love to hear from you.
How can I trace my Korean ancestors?
🔎 Genealogy & Ancestry
Q: Where can I find resources to trace Korean ancestors in Mexico?
A: Start with the Archivo General de la Nación (National Archives of Mexico) for immigration records from 1905. Many Korean-Mexican families also have oral histories preserved in Yucatán, Monterrey, and Mexico City. DNA testing services and Korean diaspora associations can also help connect family trees.
Q: How do I begin Korean genealogy research in the United States?
A: Check immigration records, Korean church archives, and community associations. The U.S. National Archives (NARA) has passenger lists and naturalization papers. Korean-American churches often kept detailed records of their early members.
Q: How can I order a Korean ancestry DNA test in Mexico?
A: Companies like 23andMe and AncestryDNA ship kits to Mexico. They can connect you with genetic relatives globally.
Q: Where can I buy Korean family tree kits online?
A: Online stores such as Etsy and Korean stationery shops sell jokbo-style (족보) family tree charts. You can also download printable templates to record your family lineage.
📚 History of Koreans in Mexico
Q: When did Koreans first arrive in Mexico?
A: The first large group of Korean migrants arrived in 1905, contracted to work on henequen plantations in Yucatán. Many later settled in Monterrey and Mexico City, forming the roots of the Korean-Mexican community.
Q: Why did Koreans migrate to Mexico in 1905?
A: Korea was under severe political and economic stress after losing independence to Japan. Recruiters brought over 1,000 Koreans to work in Yucatán under harsh labor contracts, similar to indentured servitude.
Q: How many Koreans live in Mexico today?
A: Estimates suggest over 30,000 Koreans live in Mexico, with communities concentrated in Mexico City, Monterrey, and Mérida.
🕯️ Cultural Beliefs & Traditions
Q: What do Koreans believe about ancestors and the afterlife?
A: In Korean tradition, ancestors are honored through rituals (jesa) and are believed to guide and protect the living. Objects they touched may carry gi (기), their life energy.
Q: What is gi (기) in Korean culture?
A: Gi is life energy or spirit believed to be present in people, places, and even objects. Ancestors’ belongings are thought to carry traces of their energy.
Q: Why do Koreans bow?
A: Bowing is a cultural gesture of respect used in greetings, ceremonies, and ancestor rituals. It’s more than politeness—it acknowledges connection to family, community, and heritage.
🌍 Diaspora & Identity
Q: What does the term “Korean diaspora” mean?
A: It refers to Koreans and their descendants living outside Korea. Today, there are more than 7 million people of Korean descent living in over 170 countries.
Q: What challenges did Korean immigrants face in Mexico?
A: Early migrants faced exploitative labor conditions, language barriers, and discrimination. Despite this, they built resilient communities and blended Korean and Mexican traditions.
Q: What is unique about being Korean-Mexican?
A: It’s a cultural blend of Korean traditions (food, family rituals, language) with Mexican influences (Catholicism, cuisine, celebrations). Many families honor both sets of ancestors.