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         | About | For Teachers | Procedure | Living in Korea |
  Living in Korea
Korean Life
Culture
Climate
Education System
What to Bring
Etiquette
Transportation
Korean Money
Korean Law

 

 

 
 Culture  

Traditional Korean culture has developed into a contemporary style, due to rapid urbanization and industrialization. Since you are in a different country, you may experience difference in values, customs and ways of thinking. It is important to have an open mind and try to adapt to the life in Korea. This will help your experience in Korea be more enjoyable.

A big part of a country’s culture is the food. Typical Korean meals consist of rice and different side dishes. Rice is a staple food in Korea and people usually eat them with soups, stews, vegetables, fried fish or meat. Kimchi is a popular side dish and it is made out of pickled radish and hot pepper flakes. There are different kinds of kimchi and the spiciness can be altered.

Koreans have placed an importance on table manners and observe their traditional table manners strictly. They dress properly and have good posture when they eat. They do not lift a spoon or chopsticks until their elders do so. Younger ones should not leave the table until their elders do. If they need to leave, they should ask to be excused first.

International cuisine is also rapidly becoming popular.  There are many American, Chinese, Italian, French and Indian fusion restaurants all over South Korea.

Traditional Holidays
Seol: It is the first day on the lunar calendar. Family members usually get together to have a feast and play games.
Chuseok: Chuseok is August 15th on the lunar calendar. People make rice cakes and visit their ancestor’s graves to offer food and express their gratefulness. People also celebrate by having parties, drinking, dancing and playing games.
Traditional Clothing
Traditional Korean clothes are called “hanbok”. Hanbok has exquisite harmony of straight and curved lines. The white collar stripe keeps the balance of the outfit, and highlights the gracefulness of the clothes. The colors and material can vary according to the season and occasion. These days, people wear hanbok only on traditional holidays or for family celebrations.
 
 
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