Jun Dal Choi
What does being a Korean Canadian mean to you?
I wasn’t born in Canada. As one of the pioneering Korean immigrants, I feel like I played my role as a bridge for our second and third generation Korean Canadians for their brighter future. I did my best to take the role of that strong bridge. Also as a professional engineer, I believe I made a meaningful contribution to Canada as a Korean in this multicultural society.
What does Canada’s 150th birthday mean to you?
150 years of history” is relatively short history for people like us, Asians. So I didn’t expect much. However, I began to research about Canada’s history deeper as I began to deliver lectures on the “Canadian history.” I learned that many people sacrificed their lives and made meaningful contributions to establish Canada we know today. It was a very good learning opportunity for me.
An immigration story you would like to share with us?
We raised two daughters and one son. It definitely is not easy to raise and educate three children in a new country for any family. Especially, I believe the role of a mother is much more difficult if she has a career of her own. Nonetheless, I feel satisfied when I see my children raising their kids with national Canadian pride. My children and grandchildren have many Canadian friends and actively participate in the community. I believe they can live a happier and more meaningful life in Canada and contribute back more to the society than we did.
How or for what reason did you decide to come to Canada?
I came as an international student at University of Alberta in 1971. While studying in Canada, I began to desire to permanently reside in this “beautiful Canada.” Of course, my family came as well.
What is your first memorable impression/experience in Canada?
The scenery of the vast landscape and the Rocky mountain was the most memorable.
What was the hardest/happiest discovery about living in Canada?
We lived in Edmonton from 1971 to 1983. At that time, the long and cold winter was tough for all of us. Nowadays the winter became warmer and snows less due to global warming. Back in the 1970s, the snow in Edmonton came in October and did not melt until April. There were many days when the temperature went below -20 degrees Celsius. Especially, changing flat tires in a cold winter night was not an easy task.
Your most memorable event in Canada.
The happiest moment was when we took a family trip to Banff-Jasper National Park when our children were young. We visited and camped at many beautiful landmarks, and enjoyed skiing at world-class resorts. After my children all grew up, the five to six months of golf season in the summer, although short, makes me happy.
A story about Korean Canadians you admire
Generally, the pioneering Korean immigrants to Canada in the 1960s and 1970s began their new life with economic struggle. Also, compared to the immigrants in the 1980s, they had more difficult time adjusting to the Canadian society due to their weak English proficiency. However, they worked hard in various industries with sacrifices and passion, and did their best for their children’s future. In that respect, I respect and admire them all.