Final answer:
No, Ken is not liable for illegal discrimination, but his actions are ethically questionable.
Step-by-step explanation:
No, Ken is not liable for illegal discrimination. Discrimination based on race or ethnicity is illegal in many countries, including the United States. When a company requests Ken's services and strongly hints that they do not wish to hire Southeast Asians, it is the company that is engaging in illegal discrimination, not Ken. Ken is simply following the instructions given by the companies and not placing Southeast Asians in those companies. However, it's important to note that Ken's actions are ethically questionable as well, as he is indirectly facilitating discriminatory practices.