CULTURE of SOUTH KOREA
- Johanna Kristine Joy Estender
- Oct 27, 2020
- 2 min read
Updated: Oct 28, 2020
The Concept of Kibun (equivalent to face or honor) is really important to Koreans, and they will still strive to preserve their Kibun or their personal integrity. Confrontation must be stopped at all times as soon as Kibun is lost, it cannot be retrieved.
Ø Kibun is a word with no literal English translation; the closest terms are pride, face, mood, feelings, or state of mind.
Ø If you hurt someone's kibun you hurt their pride, cause them to lose dignity, and lose face. Korean interpersonal relationships operate on the principle of harmony.
Ø It is important to maintain a peaceful, comfortable atmosphere at all times, even if it means telling a "white lie".
Ø It is important to know how to judge the state of someone else's kibun, how to avoid hurting it, and how to keep your own kibun at the same time.
Meeting & Greeting
Ø Bowing is the traditional way to greet in South Korea
Ø Handshakes often accompany the bow among men.
Ø Your left hand should support your right forearm when shaking hands
Ø Korean women do not always shake hands and may slightly nod instead of a full bow
Ø Always bow to individuals when departing
The Symbol of Dragon
If you visit traditional buildings or take a look at Korean artwork, you will always see dragons. The dragon has a good significance in Korean culture. It symbolizes water, rain, clouds and agriculture. As a result, Korean dragons are also said to have resided in water bodies such as seas, rivers, and lakes.
Education
Education is very important to Korean culture. Training is seen as a way to a better life. It's natural to see little kids go to school all day and have several tutors. Junior high school and high school students remain at school for more than 12 hours is also the norm in Korea.
Family
Is one of the most important aspects of Korean culture. Traditionally, the father is the head of the household, but it's shifting when many Korean women work outside. Koreans value the welfare of the family rather than the welfare of the citizen. This culture is highly influenced by Confucianism. As Korea is being westernized, traditional value and costumes are also evolving. For eg, it used to be very important to celebrate the ancestor's birthday and the day they died. These days, however, many Koreans refuse to commemorate their ancestor's birthday.
Ø The family unit is an integral part of customs and life in South Korea.
Ø Arranged marriages are common.
Ø Marriage is regarded as a rite of passage.
Ø Divorce was rare but has become more common in recent years
Ø Patriarchal lineage is ubiquitous and links ancestors through the husband’s line.
Ø Traditionally, the eldest son inherited, however, this has recently altered and is now equal by law.
Ø The eldest son bears extra responsibility to his family and it is supposed that he will care for his parents in their old age.
Comments