East and SE Asia Culture Quiz

Considering the linguistic typology and phonetic characteristics, what is the primary language of Korea, and which languages share notable linguistic features with it?

• Korean, exhibits typological and phonetic resemblances with Chinese and Japanese due to shared historical influences

• Korean, shares structural and lexical similarities with languages such as Turkish and Hungarian, alongside some influence from Chinese and Japanese

• Japanese, has linguistic convergence with Korean and Chinese through historical interactions and loanwords

• Chinese, has influenced neighboring languages including Korean and Japanese, sharing script and vocabulary

In which year did King Sejong commission the creation of a new Korean alphabet, and what was the primary motivation behind its development?

• 1443, to enhance diplomatic communications

• 1444, to simplify learning for the general populace

• 1446, to establish a distinct cultural identity

• 1450, to facilitate the spread of Buddhism

• 1443, to unify the various Korean dialects

Considering the diverse religious landscape of South Korea, estimate the proportion of the population in Seoul that identifies as Christian.

• Approximately 10 to 15 percent

• Approximately 20 to 25 percent

• Approximately 30 to 35 percent

• Approximately 40 to 45 percent

• Approximately 50 to 55 percent

Which of the following represents a significant and enduring geopolitical issue in Korea, with deep historical roots and contemporary political implications?

• The division between North and South Korea, stemming from Cold War geopolitics

• The impact of globalisation and the pervasive influence of Western cultures

• The role of religious movements, including the spread of Christianity, in societal change

• The cultural significance and historical context of the Hangul alphabet's invention

• Economic disparities and the challenge of technological innovation across the peninsula

Imagine you are at a global linguistics conference in 2023, and a panel discussion focuses on the Korean language. A speaker asks the audience, 'Approximately how many individuals speak Korean worldwide?'

• About 53 million

• About 63 million

• About 73 million

• About 83 million

Which writing system, originally developed in China, significantly influenced the formation of the Japanese script?

• Kana

• Roman Alphabet

• Cyrillic Alphabet

• Chinese writing system

• Indus script

Identify the indigenous ethnic group of Japan, known for their distinct language and culture, as mentioned.

• Koreans

• Ainu

• Ryukyuans

• Emishi

• Chinese

During a cultural exchange program in Japan, Alex and Jamie were fascinated to learn about the two primary religions that have significantly shaped the country's cultural and spiritual landscape. Identify these religions.

• Christianity and Islam

• Shinto and Buddhism

• Zen Buddhism and Shinto

• Taoism and Confucianism

• Buddhism and Christianity

Considering Japan's demographic trends, which issue poses a significant challenge to its socio-economic stability?

• Overpopulation due to immigration

• Severe economic recession triggered by global market fluctuations

• Aging population coupled with a declining birth rate

• Lack of advanced technology in rural areas

• Insufficient agricultural production to meet domestic demand

By 2020, what portion of Japan's population was projected to be older than 65, considering the increasing trends in life expectancy and declining birth rates?

• One-third

• One-fourth

• One-half

• One-fifth

• Two-fifths