Hojucooper: Cooper Burnham’s Efforts to Create a More Welcoming Australia for Koreans

Meet Cooper: The Aussie with Korean Heart

Cooper Burnham, or as he’s affectionately known, Hojucooper, has carved out a unique niche in the vibrant tapestry of the Korean-Australian community. With a mullet that’s as iconic as it is quirky, Cooper is on a mission to bridge cultural gaps while teaching Korean backpackers the ins and outs of Aussie slang.

Picture this: a cheerful bloke, brightly lit against the sun-soaked backdrop of Australia, enthusiastically explaining what a “snag” is (glorious sausage) or showing off the wonders of an “arvo” (afternoon). His videos, buzzing with energy, have turned him into something of a local celebrity, particularly among young Koreans on working holiday visas. In just over half a year, he’s attracted over 24,000 followers on Instagram alone!

First Impressions that Stick

Take Hyejin Lee, who’s been navigating life in Australia for three years. She stumbled upon Cooper’s Instagram when a friend shared one of his videos, featuring local snacks from an Aussie supermarket. “He looked Australian but spoke fluent Korean! I was hooked,” she laughs. And it only got better. Hyejin discovered Cooper wasn’t just some random Aussie—he’d immersed himself in Korean culture during his own working holiday.

“I felt an instant connection,” she adds, “He shared experiences that resonated with my own journey.”

Turning Adversity into Opportunity

Cooper’s path to creating this content wasn’t straightforward. After a serious jiu-jitsu injury in 2023, he found himself sidelined from training and contemplating life’s next moves. “It was a tough time, but I seized the opportunity to experience Korea with my girlfriend,” he explains.

In the bustling city of Daegu, he embraced a whole new world, reconnecting with friends and even coaching at a local jiu-jitsu studio. Despite his language struggles, he adapted; teaching kids by using essential vocabulary like “gaseum” (chest) through simple instructions. “Korean life opened new doors for me,” he reflects, fondly recalling the warmth of the families he met and the shared meals during traditional holidays.

Returning with a Mission

Once back in Australia, Cooper noticed a peculiar trend: many Koreans seemed to cluster together, missing out on the rich experiences Australia offers. “It’s a shame, really,” he says. “People miss out on the adventure of really knowing the country.”

Hyejin sees it too. “Making friends with locals can be a challenge,” she admits. Cooper’s take? Dive into activities like jiu-jitsu or fitness classes where you’re naturally forced to chat in English.

The Mullet: A Symbol of Inclusiveness

Now, let’s talk about that infamous mullet. Cooper keeps it as a sort of cultural badge, saying, “It’s part of my Aussie identity. Plus, it gives me a chance to challenge stereotypes. Just because I look like a typical Aussie doesn’t mean I fit in the box.”

To show his Australian home, he invites young Koreans to his family farm in Mildura, complete with adorable animals and home-cooked meals. His aim is simple: to showcase the warmth and friendliness Australia has to offer.

Tips for Better Connection

For Australians wanting to connect with their Korean mates, Cooper’s advice is straightforward:

1. Avoid asking if they are from North or South Korea—it can be a bit awkward.
2. Speak slowly and clearly.
3. Use straightforward language, steering clear of too much slang.
4. Don’t hesitate to use a translator if needed.
5. Flash those welcoming smiles!

In Cooper’s world, a simple hairstyle or a shared laugh can open the door to a richer, more inclusive life in Australia. As he says, even a guy with a mullet can welcome you with open arms and an open heart.

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