Netizens Root For Black-Russian Model Who Found Refuge In South Korea From Racial Discrimination

The story of Shawn, a mixed-race Russian boy living in South Korea has touched the hearts of K-Netizens.

The historical lack of racial diversity in South Korea and the subsequent close-mindedness of its populace toward immigrants has long been a topic of debate and discussion in the media. But in a reverse situation, Shawn Poroshin, a half-Black Russian model seems to have found his happiness, away from racial discrimination, in Korea.

Shawn Poroshin | @shawn.poroshin/Instagram

Shawn was born to a White mother and a Black father in Russia. Growing up as a mixed kid wasn’t easy, as he was not only isolated, but often bullied to the point of physical violence. But the assault took a dangerously severe turn, leading to a case of intentional arson that burned down his house.

Photos of Shawn’s injuries resulting from bullying

Shawn and his mother left Russia and started traveling across the glove to find a new place to settle in. The family found solace in Korea, and it was primarily because of Shawn that they settled in the country. Shawn believed that Korea was a “miracle,” where he could receive warmth and acceptance, in contrast to his life in Russia.

After a long period of perseverance, the family applied for refugee status in South Korea, which was granted to them eventually. It came with certain benefits that substantially helped with their circumstances and provided enough support for their new life.

Shawn and his mother

In elementary school, Shawn was busy juggling his studies and working as a child model.

| Insight | Insight

Now, he is a middle schooler and his modeling career has advanced significantly as well. Shawn has made appearances at reputed events such as the Seoul Fashion Week and the Daegu Fashion Fair.

| Insight Shawn at Seoul Fashion Week 2023 | @shawn.poroshin/Instagram

He has also made multiple TV appearances, inlcluding popular shows like Nine Plus and Any Body Can Dance.

| @shawn.poroshin/Instagram | @shawn.poroshin/Instagram

The story of Shawn has touched the hearts of netizens, who are rooting for his success and happiness.

| @insight.co.kr_fashion /Instagram 

• “I hope he has a happy life in South Korea.”
• “Oh gosh, he’s beautiful. I wish him all the happiness in the future”
• “No, but…he’s so good-looking, though…? His proportions are also f*cking good. To be honest, I feel like they bullied him out of jealousy.”
• “Hope you live happily in South Korea.”

| @insight.co.kr_fashion /Instagram

• “It would be amazing if kids like these could live a good life in Korea and set good precedents.”
• “He’s really pretty. A cool face.”
• “I don’t know who raised him, but he is handsome.”
• “Oh no…it’s heartbreaking to look at the pictures of him injured . Let’s walk only on flower paths in Korea.”

| @insight.co.kr_fashion /Instagram

• “I hope Shawn is always just as happy as now.”
• “I think living without facing racial discrimination should be natural for everyone. But in reality, it is so difficult that it’s described as a miracle. It’s heartbreaking TT.”
• “No human being is above or below another human being. Let’s live happily, please.”