The Kotoba Interactive journal.

Editorial features on the cultures, history and languages of Asia. Filter by culture, by topic, or search for what inspires you.

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9 articles Reset

JapaneseSociété9 min

Valentine's, White Day, Black Day: Love Across East Asia

From Valentine's to White Day and Black Day, how Japan, Korea, and China reinvented love holidays. Plus: the horror game White Day.

15 avril 2026Read

KoreanSociété11 min

Pepero Day: November 11, Korea's Beloved Snack Holiday

On 11/11, South Korea celebrates Pepero Day. History of Lotte's iconic snack, marketing genius, Pocky Day rivalry, and cultural phenomenon.

15 avril 2026Read

JapaneseLangue10 min

Oppa, Senpai, Gege: Titles That Shape East Asian Society

Oppa, Noona, Hyeong, Senpai, Kohai, Gege, Jiejie: understanding the honorific titles governing social relationships in Japan, Korea, and China.

15 avril 2026Read

JapaneseSociété10 min

Karaoke: From Japan to the World, the Art of Singing Together

History of karaoke, from its invention in Japan to noraebang culture in Korea and KTV in China. How a machine changed our evenings.

15 avril 2026Read

JapaneseArts11 min

The Ultimate Guide to Japanese, Korean and Chinese Culture

An illustrated dictionary of works, genres and traditions from Japan, South Korea and China. From Cardcaptor Sakura to Boys Over Flowers, everything explained in one article.

11 avril 2026Read

JapaneseSociété11 min

Ib, Mad Father, Misao: Asian Indie Horror Games

From Ib to Mad Father, Misao to White Day: explore the Japanese and Korean indie horror games that terrified a generation through pixel art, dread and unforgettable storytelling.

11 avril 2026Read

KoreanLangue10 min

Land of the Morning Calm: Why Korea Is Really the Morning Bright

'Land of the Morning Calm' is a mistranslation. Joseon, Korea's ancient name, actually means 'morning freshness.' A linguistic and historical investigation.

11 avril 2026Read

KoreanGastronomie11 min

Banchan: The Small Dishes That Define Korean Dining

Banchan, the small shared dishes at every Korean meal, carry centuries of philosophy, fermentation science and seasonal wisdom. A deep dive.

11 avril 2026Read

KoreanPhilosophie14 min

Nunchi: The Korean Art of Reading the Room

Nunchi, Korea's subtle art of sensing emotions and unspoken cues in any group, rooted in Confucian philosophy, modern social code and a global success tool.

3 février 2026Read