Introduction

 

The world has become a global village due to the amazing development of technology such as transportation, communication net work as well as the speedy progress of the internet. Yet cultural differences still exist - some of them opposite as day and night as Korea and America are located on the opposite side of the globe. These differences cause many misunderstandings and unresolved issues. Thus, it is critical that the culture of each side is fully understood as well as having the wisdom to embrace these differences and live with others in harmony. I hope that this would be the first step to obtain those wisdoms. 

 

Different cultures exist among different eras and various ways of thinking exist among different generations - even within a nation. Due to the effort of finding out differences between East and West, some of the contrasts were heavily based on general tendency.

(같은 국가에서도,  세대에 따라 문화가 다르고, 나이에 따라 사고방식과 행동에 차이가 크다. 그러나 여기서는 일반적인 경향을 가지고 동서양의 문화의 차이로 편을 갈랐기 때문에 몇 개의 항목에서는 다소 무리한 구분도 있음을 알려둔다. )

 

 

01 Clothes, Food, Living ( 의,식,주 )

 

01-1. Clothes ( 의 )

 

Men's Clothing( 남자 옷 )

-Korea

Han-bok (traditional Korean attire) does not have sizes. (Men's pants are like a sack which you would fold around your waist.)

(The fact that Han-bok does not have sizes indicate the power of adaptation.)

-America

Trouser has various sizes. It indicates weak adaptation. (e.g. For example, a person who is size 8 cannot wear the same trouser once he gains 20 pounds.)

 

Women’s Clothing( 여자 옷 )

Skirt

-K

Traditional Skirt- Does not have sizes (one size fits all). (Women’s skirt is like a piece of blanket that you would put around your waist.)

-A

Skirt  requires a size.

 

Ways of storing clothing ( 양복 장 )

-K

Furniture- Very expensive and decorative. It can be used as a way of showing off wealth. Also it is used to store folded blankets along with the suits and clothes.  It is movable.

 -A

Closet- It is built in the wall, and it is used to store clothing.

 

 

Shoes - Common practice for working women ( 여 사원 과 신발 )

-K

On the way to work- women wear high hills.

In side the office- change into something more comfortable such as slippers or sneakers.

-A                              ( 1 )

On the way to work- women tend to wear comfortable shoes such as sneakers. They carry formal leather shoes in their bag so they could wear them in their office.

In side the office- change into formal shoes such as high hills

 

Tattoo ( 문신 )

-K

"Underskirt Grave"”

The historical background behind tattoo goes back to the ancient time where there used to be numerous wars. Korea was often invaded by its neighbor countries, and young men went out to the battles to protect their family and the country from invasion. The wives started putting tattoo on their husbands' back in order to recognize them if they are to die in the battle field. As they stitch in their own unique shape into the husbands flesh the wife would wipe the blood with her own underskirt and keep it for herself. If the husband does not return home from war, it means that the husband is dead. If they cannot find the body, she would bury the underskirt that has the stain of her husband's blood for the burial.

-A

Tattoo is seen as a way of self-expression and beauty.

 

 

01-2. FOOD ( 식 )

 

When ordering food in restaurant ( 음식 주문 )

-Korea

Very quick and simple.

Tend to unify the order when in eating in a group.

When eating at home you are expected to eat whatever your mother or wife makes for you. If you only eat the side dishes that you like (rather than eating varieties) you are seen as someone who does not possess goodness and virtue. 

If eating in a group, one person tends to volunteer to pick up the check and pays for the entire group. Also, if you are eating out with the people that you work with, it is a common practice that the oldest person or the highest rank of the group tends to pay for everyone.  In this case, it is expected that you will not order food that is more expensive than the food that the oldest or the highest rank had ordered.

-America

When ordering food, they tend to take their time and usually it is a complicated process. They make many requests.

(e.g When ordering coffee you're asked “How many sugars? “Milk, or no milk ? ”What size?” etc.)

When eating in a group, each person orders what they personally enjoy.

They tend to pay for their own food.

 

 

Eating habit ( 식사 습관 )

-K

Usually everything is laid out on the table before eating.

-A

Food is served in a course. (e.g. Appetizer, main dish, and dessert)

 

Bar scene ( 술집 )

-K

When drinking in a group, they tend to be very quick and get easily drunk.

Pay for everything at the end of the drinking scene.

Unify the drinks that they order. 

Drinking scene is usually very loud.

Very generous when people act drunk and loud.

Always have side snack with alcohol.

Usually order in bottles. They take turn offering and pouring drinks for each other as a way to build a common ground. Like to order the same kinds of alcohol. It is considered rude if a person drinks a different kind from the rest of the group.

Like to make reasons to go out and drink. (if there are no special occasions.)

Do not enjoy drinking alone. Always seeks for company when drinking.

-A

They take their time drinking and enjoy drinking slowly.

Pay for each drink at the bar.

Each person usually orders different drink.

They do not get extremely loud.

Usually side snack is not required.

 

Boiled Rice ( 밥 )

-K

Korean people prefer sticky rice. They do not enjoy eating American-style rice. (non-sticky)

-A

Americans prefer non-sticky rice.

 

Menu

-K

In a family, the decision of the provider is more respected than the wish of an individual

-A

In an American family, individual's preference and decision is respected.

 

Soup ( 국 먹는 습관 )

-K

Soup is eaten along with the main dish.

-A

Soup comes before the main dish.

When you are done with the soup, the empty dish is taken away. Then the main dish is served.

 

Obesity/Diet ( 살 빼기 )

-K

There are not many obese people.

Although people take interest in dieting, it is not a big social issue.

-A

For Americans obesity and dieting is a big issue.

(For example, there are many anorexic and bulimic people who die each year.

People with Anorexia refuse to eat and think they are “fat” even if they are underweight.

People with Bulimia eat huge amount of food and throw up everything.

American men prefer flat stomach (e.g. Washboard belly)

 

 

01-3. Living ( 주 )

 

Wall of private houses ( 개인 집의 담 )

-Korea

Each house has a wall around the house. The average height of a wall is about six to nine feet. People enjoy having a garden within the wall of the house.

-America

There are almost no walls around houses. People enjoy using a public park as if its their own. (For reading, jogging, playground, etc.)

 

Draining system in private house holds ( 개인 집 목욕탕의 하수구 )

-Korea

Most of the houses have draining hole in their bathroom. (People did not take shower every day, and they washed feet daily. After washing they would throw away the water in the draining hole.)

-America

There are no draining holes in the bathroom. Usage of bathtub and shower is enough.

 

Shower curtains in the bathroom ( 개인집 목욕탕의 curtain )

-K

No shower curtain (in hotels only)

-A

Always have shower curtain

 

Public bath ( 공중 목욕탕 )

-K 

Public bath house is very popular. There are bathing room and sauna in a public bath house. Men and women are segregated.

-A

There is no public bath.

 

Inside the living room and shoes ( 거실과 신발 )

-K

Take off their shoes. If shoes are worn in a room you are considered insane and would be sent to a mental hospital.

-A

Most do not take off their shoes inside the house. They like to have the shoes on.

 

Usage of a saw when cutting a piece of wood ( 톱으로 나무를 자를 때 )

-K

Pull the saw toward the body.

-A

Push the saw away from the body.

 

Room in a house ( 개인 집에서의 방의 역할 )

-K

The usage of a room in a house is multi-functional.

Example:

1) When you lay down a blanket a room becomes a bedroom.

2) When you place a small dining table in a room for meals it becomes a dining room.

3) When you play Yoot-no-ri ( a traditional Korean game) with your family in the room, it  

  becomes a living room.

-A

Each room or space has its own usage. There are no versatility or multi functions for each  room .

 

The exterior decor of houses ( 집 꾸미기 )

-K

The exterior decor of Korean houses tend to be very fancy but interior decor may be very plain.

-A

The Americans do not focus on the outer décor of the houses as much as they care about the interior decor.

 

The structure of floor in houses and peoples sitting habit (방바닥 구조와 앉는 습관)

-K

Mostly they have On-dol-bang (they put “Jang-pan” - paper pasted on a cemented floor with oil and glue. In the winter, they heat up the floor by using special fuel made out of coals. Koreans usually sit on the floor or on a sitting mattress that you could place as you sit on the floor.

-A

Most of the American housings are carpeted.  People usually sit on carpeted floor, couch or a chair.

 

The space between buildings ( 건물사이의 간격 )

-K

There is much space between two buildings in Seoul.

-A

There is usually no space between buildings in Manhattan.

 

The space between streets ( 길과 길 사이의 간격 )

-K

The distance between two streets is rather long. (The distance between Jong-ro 1 gha and Jong-ro 2 gha is long.) 

-A

The distance between two streets is rather short. (For example, in Manhattan there is usually one or two building between two streets)

 

Closet door and closet roller ( 벽장문의 도르레 )

-K

The closet roller is attached on the bottom part of the closet door.

-A

The closet roller is attached on the upper part of the closet door.

 

House tax ( 주택 세 )

-K

The annual tax required to be paid by homeowners is low.

-A

The annual tax required to be paid by homeowners is high.

 

Gardening ( 정원 )

-K

There isn't much gardening to do. There are not many houses with lawn in Korea.

-A

Taking care of a lawn is a major chore of the house. (It is usually the job of the men or children of the house. If the lawn is not properly cared for, it reflects bad image of the homeowner. It even affects the price of the house. )

 

When inviting guests to home ( 손님 집에 초대 )

-K

When you are invited to a house party, you don't have to bring anything with you.

They enjoy abundant food on any occasions. There are no clear lines between dinner parties and simple get together. Any occasion has abundance of food.

  -A

When you are invited to a house party, you usually ask the hosts if they need anything. (For example, if they say they might need some drinks, you would buy drinks and bring them to the party.)

When getting together for a simple get together- rather than focusing on eating large amount of food, they concentrate on socializing with the guests.

For dinner parties, they would put more time and effort on preparing food for the guests.

(The hosts would let the guests know whether its a surprise party, house warming party, baby shower, bridal shower, going away party and the guests would prepare themselves for those occasions by bringing special presents. The hosts would also let them know if it is  formal or casual. It is very important that the guests are aware what kind of party they are attending.)

 

Mannerism at parties ( 파티 습관 )

-K

If guests are social it is viewed that they are seeking attention and they are looked down upon.

-A

It is good to be social at parties. If you are quietly seating down you are viewed as someone who is difficult to talk to. People may stay away from you.  It is good to have many lively conversations.

-K

When inviting guests, Koreans tend to give house tours to guests to show off their wealth or expensive possession.

-A

When giving house tours to guests, the hosts focus on making the guests feel comfortable. (e.g.- Shows the guests where the bathroom is.)

 

Using tools ( 공구 사용 )

-K

They go to mechanics even for a simple car problem.

They go to carpenters for even simple wood work.

-A

They try to fix things on their own if they can. Each household has many tools.

 

 

 

02. Family (가정 )

 

The concept of family ( 가정에 대한 개념 )

 

"I"  vs. "We" ( 나와 우리 )

-Korea

The concept of "us"” is very strong

Even if living alone you refer to your house as“" our house"” rather than "my house."”

For Koreans the word "I"” and “"we" ”could be interchangeable given certain situations.

Some men say "our wife" rather than "my wife" ”when they really mean “"my wife."”

Strong nepotism.

-America

The usage of "I"” and “"we"” are clear.

 

Family Centered ( 가족 중심 )

-K

Although they lock the front entrance there is no individual lock on each room.

Strong community - oriented mind (For example: “our family”, “our school”, our company”, our home town”, etc.)

The family is inter-dependent. (Strong concerns and responsibilities for siblings)

-A

Strong individualism. Family members are usually independent. You are taught to be self-sufficient so that you could become independent.

 

Relationship between parents and children ( 부모와 자식 관계 )

-K

Parents give unconditional love to children. Parents are also controlling when planning children's future. (e.g. Children are expected to live with parents until they get married.)

-A

Parents respect children's individual wishes. If children are over 18 years of age, it is common for them to move out of the parents place.

 

“Injung‚”( 인정 )

 

-K

If you are called someone who has no "“Injung "” it is seen as a big character flaw.

“Injung‚” means that you are warm hearted and generous.

(e.g.- Farmer and Cow- When a farmer comes home from a hard day of  work, he shares the burden of carrying hay sack with his cow, rather than making the cow carry it all by itself. The farmer does this thinking that the hay sack might be too heavy for the cow. This action generates from the farmers heart for the cow.

 

Food for magpies -During autumn, people leave some persimmons hanging on the tree rather than harvesting all of the fruits. This is so that the birds will have something to eat, too. This reflects “Injung‚” of Korean people.

 

"Go-su-re"  Right before people eat their bowl of rice at a field/farm, they take out a spoonful of rice and throw it on the ground for the insects. (even if they are very hungry) This action reflects “Injung‚” of Korean people.

 

-A

Each room has its own lock.

They do not have strong concept of community YET they have a strong national pride.

There is no correlating concept of “Injung” in America.

 

Touching shoulders ( 어깨 집기 )

-K

It is considered extremely disrespectful to touch older person's shoulders.

-A

It is o.k. to touch or pat others' shoulders since it's considered to be a friendly act.

 

Children playing in the room ( 어린이들의 집에서 노는 공간 )

-K

Although children are given their own room they still like to be out in the living room with the family.

-A

American children are content playing in their own room.

 

Wedding (number of guests) ( 결혼 과 하객 )

-K

When bride and groom send out invitation cards they also allow their parents to decide how many guests they would like to invite for themselves. Because of this, there are many guests that the bride and groom do not know. (e.g. Friends of parents and far relatives)

The guests are not required to respond to the invitation, thus the couple do not know how many people will attend the wedding until the wedding day.

 

-A

The bride and groom invite close friends and family. The guests are required to respond to the invitation.

 

Wedding (time) ( 결혼식 시간 )

-K

Weddings usually take place on Saturday afternoons. The ceremony is short.

-A

Weddings usually take place in the evening. The ceremony is longer.

 

 

Wedding (reception)( 결혼식과 하객 접대 )

-K

Receptions are rather simple. The guests have lunch and leave.

The ceremony of  "Pae-Baek"” takes place among close relatives and parents.

-A

Receptions are long. They have various ceremonies from cutting of the wedding cake to dancing of the couple, etc. The bride gets to have the first dance with her father or father-in-law. (This is very unusual in Korea.)

 

Wedding & Bridesmaids ( 결혼식 과 들러리 )

-K

There used to be bridesmaids and groomsmen 50 years ago, but they are no longer part of weddings in Korea.

-A

There are 2 to 6 bridesmaids and groomsmen. There is a best man for the groom and maid of the honor for the bride. (They usually finance their own dress or suit for the wedding.)

The best man takes a big part in planning and the ceremony and the reception. As a close friend or sibling, he thinks of it as an honor to be part of the wedding.

 

Addressing others ( 호칭 )

-K

Koreans consider it to disrespectful to call older people by their names.  Thus, they usually address others by their position in the company they work for or “"Sun-seng-nim." "Sun-seng-nim"” means someone who is older or a teacher.

Koreans call their older siblings “"Hyung" or "Oppa" (elder brother)” or "Unni" or "Noona" elder sister). They address younger brothers and younger sisters by their names.

However, if the younger brothers or sisters are married they usually refer to them as the father or mother of the child. (e.g. Jays mom) Parents also do not like to call their married children by their names. So they address them as their grandchilds mom or dad. (usually the name of the first child) This goes back to the idea of family centered life style.

There are many honorific words.

-A

Always address others by their first or last names. There are not as many honorific words.

 

Addressing in-laws ( 가족과 친족내의 호칭 )

-K

The wife of elder brother is called “"Hyung-soo."

The wife of younger brother is called “"Jae-soo."”

The elder sister of wife is called “"Chu-hyung."”

The younger sister of wife is called “"Chu-jae."”

The brother of wife is called “"Chu-nam."”

The father of wife is called “"Jang-in."”

The mother of wife is called “"Jang-mo."”

-A

There are no specific titles for each relationship.  There are mother-in law, father-in-law, sister-in-law, and brother in law.

 

The action taken by family after a woman gives birth ( 신생아 탄생에 대한 표현 )

-K

The family puts up a line of hay rope with pepper (representing the birth of a baby boy) or burnt charcoal wood (representing baby girl). This is a sign to let people know that there is a woman who just gave birth and they should take discretion since she needs to rest in peace. The women who just gave birth are not allowed to take shower for the next two or three days. They are enforced to rest in the room for the next few days.

-A

After giving birth, the women are allowed to take everyday routine.  

 

When chastising a child ( 어린이에게 야단칠 때)

-K

The parents might yell out, “Get out of the house!”

-A

The child is ordered to stand facing the wall.

 

Common cold ( 감기 )

-K

“I got trapped into a cold”

-A

“I caught a cold.”

 

 

 

 03. Education ( 교육 )

 

Attendance rate ( 출석 율 )

-K

There are many students who have not missed a single school day for three years straight. They think it is virtuous to attend the school even if they are feeling ill. They take great pride in excellent attendance record.

-A

It is rare to see students who have three years of straight attendance record. Teachers advice students to stay home if they are not feeling well.

 

The concept of alumni (class of the same year)( 동창 개념)

-K

The camaraderie among the same class is very strong. They gather together every year. (among people in the same class from elementary school through college)

-A

There is weak camaraderie among same class/alumni. They gather together once every 10 years or 20 years.

 

Reading habit ( 독서 습관 )

-K

The teaching of each subject revolves around one specific textbook.

-A

The teaching of each subject involves many different books. Frequent reading is strongly encouraged.

 

Homework (elementary and junior high) ( 숙제 )

-K

The amount of homework assignment is not large.

-A

The amount of homework assignment is large.

 

The concept of enrollment and graduation ( 입학과 졸업 개념 )

-K

They put great emphasis on the enrollment and the year that they entered the school. It is difficult to enroll but easy to graduate.

-A

They put stronger emphasis on graduation rather than the initial enrollment to the school.

The graduation requirement is stronger than that of the Korean schools.

 

General attitude towards education ( 교육 열 )

-K

The general attitude toward education is extremely strong. The competition among students for college entrance is fierce. Parents find it very difficult if their child gets rejected from the desired college.

 

(e.g.“"Woo-gohl-top" - ”In the past, Korean society was an agricultural society and poverty was very common among the people. Thus, owning of a cow meant a great deal to each family since a cow was huge asset to farming. However, the parents were even willing to sell the cow to send their children to college. This is an example of the general passion that the Korean people have for education. People referred to university buildings as“"Woo-gohl-top",” which means a building made out of cow bones.)

The reputations of schools are very important. People are judged according to the name of the university they attended. Thus, if they don’t get into the desired school the first time, they are willing to wait and try again and again until they get in. The term “"Jae-soo-sang"” refers to those who didn't get into the desired university the first time and are waiting around to try again the following year.

It is very common for students to attend after-schools to enhance their academic level. The amount of money spent for private tutoring and after-school exceeds $7 billion - $10 billion annually across the nation. 

-A

The general attitude toward education is not as strong. There are very little after schools.

The competition to college entrance is not as fierce. Enrollment to college is more of a personal choice

 

Education system ( 교육 제도 )

-K

The education system is monotonous. The expected standard is very similar across the board. (e.g.- There is a national test called “Soo-neung” which is an equivalent of SAT in America. The university takes GREAT consideration on the score of this test as they select the students.)

-A

The education system varies from state to state, school to school. (There are elementary schools that go up to fifth grades OR sixth grades, etc.)

There are various standards for selecting students for schools.

The universities consider GPA, SAT score, writing skills, recommendation letters, extra curriculum, etc.)

 

Invisible Quota System ( 보이지 않는 할당제 )

-K

There is no quota system.

-A

Universities pick students from high schools across the board. Just because there are many outstanding students in one excellent school does not mean that they will all be accepted to one university. (e.g. Stuyvesant is one of the best schools in New York city. A student who ranks in top 50 in the school may have a better academic record than another top student in another high school. However, this does not guarantee that he/she will get into Harvard. A student who is in very top of the school in another high school has better chance of getting into Harvard.)

 

 

School vacation ( 방학 )

-K

Short summer vacation/ long winter vacation

-A

Long summer vacation (2-3 months)/ short winter vacation (2 weeks)

 

Excellent universities ( 학교질 )

-K

Public university (e.g. Seoul University)

-A

All of the Ivy leagues are private colleges

 

The way you read fraction ( 분수 읽기 )

-K

They read the denominator first and then numerator

-A

They read the numerator first and then denominator. (e.g. 2/3 Two  third)

 

Individualism ( 개인 주의 )

-K

They put great importance on well roundedness and mingling among the crowd.

Shun‚ ( means virtue ) away people who stand out.

-A

They put great importance on professionalism and individualism.

 

The year of the class ( 학번 )

-K

They go by the year students enter the class.

-A

They go by the year students graduate the class.

 

Home Schooling System ( 집에서 학교 교육 시키기 )

-K

None

-A

500, 000 students are in home schooling. They have 900 hours of home schooling per year and they must be tested by the state.

 

The hours spent to learn English ( 영어 배우기 )

-K

They start as early as elementary school. Even the working people spend extra hours learning English. (Some people even read English dictionary to master vocabulary. They also tend to put heavy emphasis on grammar rather than the actual conversational aspect of the language.)

-A

English is the home language, thus there is no particular importance put on the mastering of the language.

 

English tutor ( 영어 교사 ) ( 한국은 백인 영어 교사의 천국)

-K

Korea is the paradise of the Anglo-Saxon Americans who are there to teach English. This is so because there is no special qualification to be an English teacher for these people. All they have to do is just spend time with the students. No experience necessary.

The kindergarten/ school teachers or after-school teachers obtain their main income from private tutorial sessions.

-A

In order to teach English as a second language, you must have certain qualifications.  

(e.g. Certification from TESOL)

 

Major ( 전공 )

-K

If you change your major you may be viewed as someone who is not intelligent enough or someone who looks around too much (lack of focus). It's not widely acceptable to change major.

-A

Americans do not care about your past major or your present specialty. They focus more on you current ability.

 

Consciousness of chance ( 기회의식 )( 패자 부활전 )

-K

There is only ONE chance even though there are many fields. (e.g. Many students who are not accepted to their preferred college wait one more year to apply to the same college. This means that they will wait the whole year without attending school. During this time, they focus on the entrance exam.)

In order to succeed in Korean society, you must do well the first time. There is no second chance. (Revival of the losers are not allowed.)

-A

There are many chances. ( e.g. UC system )

 

 

04 Politics ( 정치 )

 

05. Economy ( 경제  )

 

Commercial transactions ( 상거래 시 )

-K

Prefer cash.

-A

Prefer credit.

They think that someone who pays cash has bad credit.

When you are paying cash ( 현금 지불 )

-K

Welcome cash

-A

Some places do not accept cash. (e.g. federal express)

 

If you deposit more than $10,000 in the bank ( 많은 현금을 입출금 할 경우)

-K

You will be treated as a VIP

-A

They get suspicious and report to the International Revenue Service.

They might think you are involved with drug dealing or illegitimate business.

 

When giving changes ( 거스름돈 주기 )

-K

If you purchase a product that costs $5.50 and you give a $10 bill, the cashier would do mental subtraction and give change of $4.50.

-A

If you purchase a product that costs $5.50 and you give a $10 bill, the cashier would add another 50 cents mentally and count off 7,8,9,10  ultimately giving out change of $4.50.

 

Money Denomination ( 돈의 명명 )

-K

The size of bills are different according to each amount.

The bigger the money unit on the bill, the more famous persons portrait is printed.

-A

All of the bills are the same size.

The smaller the money unit on the bill, the more famous persons portrait is printed.

(e.g. $1  George Washington    $5  Abraham Lincoln  $10  Hamilton)

 

Students selling chocolates ( 학생의 chocolates 판매 )

-K

Schools do not allow students to sell chocolates.

-A

The school provides an opportunity for students to learn about money management by having students participate in chocolate sales.

 

Students having part time job

-K

There aren’t many.

-A

It is common.

A student who works 10 hours a week does better academically than a student who doesnt work at all or a student who works more than 20 hours a week.

 

Garage Sale ( 차고 판매 )

-K

It is unusual. Either people just give away used things to someone they know or they throw them away.

-A

It is common for a household to have a garage sale. Sometimes many households come together and have a garage sale. The characteristics of garage sales are that items are very cheap. They do not give things away for free, though.

The sellers share memories/stories of items they are selling with their neighbors.

 

Price of cigarettes

-K

Price ranges from cheap to expensive.

-A

Price is similar for all products. (Although the price may vary for each store)

 

Bankers & Customers (은행원과 고객)

-K

There is a counter which separates bankers and customers. The customers are not allowed to be at the back of the banker's desk.

You have to wait for your turn by sitting.

-A

Customers sit beside banker's table waiting to be served or make a line and wait for the next teller.

 

Documents required to submit for Opening of an Incorporation

( 주식회사 등록 시 제출서류 )

-K

Seventeen paper work required (in 1998)

-A

One application

 

Color of Money ( 돈의 색깔 )

-K

The color of the money is red. Red represents god and wealth is viewed as fate that is destined by god.

-A

The color of the money is green. Green represents creation, something you work towards to. You work for your money.  

 

Attitude toward customers ( 고객에 대한 자세 )

-K

A customer is a king.

-A

A customer is not a king.

 

Shopping habit

-K

Choices are based on things are like color, brand name, or shape (based on senses)

-A

Focus on versatility/practicality of the product. (e.g. size and price)

 

 

06 Society ( 사회 )

 

06-1. Street, Transportation and Address System  (길, 교통, 번지 제도)

 

Giving direction to stranger ( 길 알려 주기 )

-K

Choppy answer- "Go this way about 1000 meters and ask someone for further direction".

-A

Detailed direction. "Go straight. After three signals, make a right turn then pass 2 signals and make a left turn."

 

Numbering system used for address (번지 제도)

-K

There are no systemized addresses.

It hard to find a location with an address only.

If one tries to find someone's home, it takes forever even with long accompanied telephone directions.

-A

Depending on the location of streets the addresses of buildings are determined by

even or odd numbers (across the street from each other)

Even a foreign salesman can find his/her way without much trouble if he/she has an address. It is very important that an accurate address is given for direction.

(e.g. When I requested a telephone line to be established in my office in the Empire State Building, I did not gave the exact address of the building. I just told them the room number and that it was in the Empire State Building. Ironically, this caused the  installation to be delayed by 3 days. It was considered an incomplete address and the installation men could not find my office.)

 

The system of transportation and sign board ( 교통 system과 표지판 )

-K

Due to the few, small signs, it is difficult for Seoul citizens to find their destination when driving in other cities. They have difficult time trying to find his/her friend's home.

There are few information centers on the highway.

-A

There are a lot of big signs well installed on the streets and highways.

There are many information centers on the highways.

(e.g. A friend of mine came to New York city as an immigrant and after 1 week, he became a taxi driver in Manhattan.)

 

When you are waiting for the elevator at the lobby (elevator를 타려고 기다릴 때)

-K

Men and elderly people step in first.

-A

Children and ladies go in first.

 

When you are speaking to each other (standing)  ( 서서 대화를 할때)

-K

They keep a certain distance from each other.

-A

They talk very closely - face to face.

 

When you are passing someone on the street of a block

( 길거리에서 모르는 사람과 지나칠 때)

-K

They do not smile or say hello to strangers.

If someone greets of smiles at a stranger, they are viewed as lewd.

-A

People smile or greet each other even if they don't know each other.

 

When one bumps into a stranger on bus or subway.

( bus 나 전철 안에서 다른 사람과 부디 쳤을 때)

-K

The person who got bumped does not react therefore one does not apologize or start a quarrel.

-A

He apologizes. If he doesn't apologize the person who got bumped will start an argument.

 

When walking or using public staircases ( 길을 걸을 때 )

-K

One walks on the left side.

-A

One walks on the right side.

 

Cleaning ( 청소)

1) fall of leaves ( 낙엽)

-K

They sweep the leaves with a broom.

-A

They blow away leaves with a blowing machine.

2) Picking up trash papers( 쓰레기 종이 줍기)

-K

They pick it up with a pincers.

-A

They poke through it with a pick.

3) Cleaning room ( 방청소)

-K

They clean floor with a wet rag.

-A

They clean floor with a vacuum cleaner.

 

 

06-2  General Practices

 

Shaking hands ( 악수 )

-Korean

Long- exchange of body temperature, long physical contact.

-American

Indicating harmlessness. Short.

 

Concept of Work ( 일에 대한 개념 )

-K

It is good to work even though it maybe difficult.

They are afraid of losing jobs.

-A

It is a labor- consequence of sin. (Biblical view)

There are many beggars/homeless people.

They do not work, and they do not expect any luxuries. (e.g. Hippies)

 

T.V. Drama

-K

There are many dramas which tell the story of unfortunate people. Audience cry by watching these dramas and they comfort themselves thinking that there are other people who are less fortunate than they are. Through these dramas the audience tell themselves they are sufficient with the little they have and they will endure difficult circumstance.

-A

There are many comedy sitcoms that makes the audience laugh.

 

Gossip

-K

People gossip very frequently. The gossip is not the problem but those who spill the secret is a traitor.

-A

It is not acceptable to gossip behind people's back.

If someone leaks the secret it is viewed as an information, not as a traitor.

 

Working in the Office ( 사무실 근무 )

-K

If co-worker is busy one would stay behind to help out.

The sense of community is very important, they put great emphasis on human relationship.

-A

Even if co-worker is busy they don't really see it as their job to help out and would just leave the office. They focus on their own responsibilities. They have work-oriented mind.

Civil services ( 공무원 )

-K

The employees at civil services are not as service oriented as the ones who work in private companies.

-A

The employees at civil services are more service oriented than the ones who are in private companies.

 

Television advertisement ( TV 광고 )

-K

Usually have positive messages.

-A

It is not uncommon to find advertisements with messages that are not so positive. (e.g.- police being outsmarted by criminals)

 

Deathbed ( 임종 )

-K

Deathbed usually takes place at home. (Even if someone is in a hospital, the family would bring the dying person home if he is coming close to death.)

-A

Deathbed usually takes place at hospital.

 

Emergency number ( 구급 전화 번호 )

-K

119

-A

911

 

 

Information number ( 안내 전화 번호 )

-K

114

-A

411

 

When entering an entrance ( 출입문을 통과 할때 )

-K

One usually does not look back.

The person takes great caution not to hit his face into the door.

-A

One usually holds the door for the person behind.

 

Interests ( 관심도 )

-K

People have interests in many different areas.

(e.g.- A farmer might have strong interests and knowledge of politics.)

-A

People have expertise in one field.  (A post office worker may not know where to go for telegraph.)

 

When counting using fingers ( 손가락으로 count 할 때 )

-K

Start out with an open hand, count as closing off each finger.

-A

Start out with a closed fist, count as opening each finger.

 

When asked name on telephone ( 전화 상으로 상대방 이름 물으면 )

-K

People do not like to let their name be known to a third party who picks up the phone.

If asked, their response might be something like, "Why do you want know?" “or “"I'm a friend of the president of the company."” Sometimes people would give vague answers such as, "Mr. Kim from New Jersey."” (As there are over millions of Kims in Korea.)

-A

Very open about letting their names be known to third party who picks up the phone.

 

Sitting posture ( 앉는 자세 )

-K

People usually have good sitting postures.

-A

People usually have bad sitting postures.

 

 

Endurance ( 인내심 )

-K

People are usually very enduring.

-A

People are usually not as enduring.

 

Official and public life ( 공과 사 )

-K

There is no clear line between professional and personal relationship.

-A

There is a clear line between professional and personal relationship.

 

Position of a person in the society ( 공과 사의 위치 )

 

Your manager is your manager both in the office and at a bar.

A professor must act classy and polished even at a bar.

Koreans are more concerned with formality than the actual content.

-A

Your manager would not be thought of as your manager at a bar.

It is perfectly acceptable for a female cop to pose as a nude model.

Americans are more concerned with content than formality.

 

Concentration ( 집중도 )

-K

Unclear line between work and rest. Some workers go to café or sauna during office hours (As a monkey is always busy).

-A

Clear line between work and rest. (As a lion works hard to get his prey, but takes a week of rest after catching its prey.)

 

Appointment/promise ( 약속 )

-K

Not very rigid to keeping appointments/promises.

The positive side is flexibility, the negative side is unclear outcome of situation.

If an appointment is not kept, it is still considered o.k.

-A

Rigidity is required for keeping appointments.

No flexibility.

If you do not keep appointment, it would be a critical mistake.

 

Structure of community ( 집단 구조 )

-K

Vertically oriented mind

(Posting for a professor position would be meaningless since that position would be eventually be filled with an alumni of another professor in the school. The structure of professional community is revolves around relationships between alumni or teachers and students.

Pro: Orderliness of society

Con: Limited creativity and diversity

-A

Horizontally oriented mind 

Open

 

Concept of small community  (family, family name, alumni, work place, town)

( 가족과  소집단 개념  )

-K

Concept of small community is strong.

-A

Concept of small community is weak.

 

The level of importance that are put on places/positions ( 장의 집착도 )

-K

Very strong.

When placing office furniture, it is very important to place the lowest position to closest to the door and the highest position next to the window (towards the back of the room).

If an employee moves around a lot from one company to other, it would be at his disadvantage.

-A

Not as strong.

Furniture of employees could be placed according to the needs of each worker in order to increase efficiency of working environment.

Americans put more focus on qualification and ability of each employee.

 

Concept of visual sense and sense of touch ( 시각과 촉각관 )

-K

Stimulation based on touch (physical and emotional)

Strong development of emotion.

People would kiss in dark.

Sense of touch is developed ( e.g. When purchasing a product people like to touch it to see if its high quality or not.)

-A

Visual sense is developed.

Development of abstract thinking.

Development of visual sense

People would kiss with light on.

 

 

07 Culture ( 문화 )

 

07-1. Structure of consciousness( 의식 구조 )

 

- Korea

Not transparent- rather it is closed off.

The culture could be viewed as Chinese ware. You cannot see inside.

A good analogy of Korean culture would be a “Bahl” Korean blind (for window). You could see outside from inside, but you cannot see inside from outside.  It is not absolutely open nor absolutely closed off. The “Bahl” plays a neutral role.

 

- America

Transparent culture

They are very open.

 

Ways of expression ( 자기 표현 )

-K

Unclear ways of expressing “"Yes"” or “"No."”

If a person is given a gift he would say, "No, thats o.k,"” or “"You shouldn't have," ”even if he likes the present and appreciates it.

When one is asked if she is hungry and would like to have dinner, it is a common practice to say, "No, thats o.k." in order to be polite.

-A

Usually“"Yes"”means yes and "No"”means no.

 

Methods of communication ( 의사 전달 )

-K

Certain things are understood between two people without using the actual words. (e.g. I

If you ask a friend, "What would you like to eat for lunch?" ”he might receive a response like, "Anything thats good."” The person would have no complain about what was ordered by the other person.

e.g. II  A husband might not say, “"I love you"” to his wife, but put all his saving and assets under his wife’s name as a gesture of love.

e.g. III  -  At a bar, a waiter might ask, "What would you like to drink?" ”The guest may say, "Bring something good."”  The guests will not complain about what was brought by the waiter. When ordering more drinks, the guest may say, “Bring two, three, four bottles of beer rather than giving an exact count.” Whatever the number of bottles the waiter might bring, the customer will not complain. (This was an example illustrated by Professor Uh-Ryung Lee.)

-A

Always use clear verbal expressions.

 

Concept of Happiness ( 행복 관 )

-K

It is something that you become. (e.g. -By fate, nature or plan of gods you become rich or you pass an important exam.) Koreans derive to happiness by overcoming great difficulties. The obstacles and difficulties a person experiences mold and shape the person that he becomes.  The happiness of people depends on the plans that gods have for them.

(e.g. Even though someone broke their leg at a car accident he might say, "Thank God I didn't die.)”

-A

You are supposed to make your own happiness.

 

Priority of people ( 사람의 우선 순위 )

-K

Man, boy, lady

-A

Lady, child, man

 

When not showing up for an appointment or meeting ( 약속 어겼을 때 )

-K

Koreans do not put as much thoughts into it.

If you break an appointment or a meeting, it is understood as something that could happen.

-A

It is very important that you keep an appointment or meeting. If not, you will be viewed as an irresponsible person.

 

Attitude towards other cultures ( 이질 문화에 대한 자세 )

-K

Although they are initially very closed off, once you have a good reason to be at their house and the host welcomes you, you will easily have access even to their bedrooms

-A

Nation of immigrants

Respects individualities and differences that come from different cultures

 

Attitude toward nature ( 자연관 )

-K

Harmony between men and nature, strong influence of agricultural culture.

-A

Developing and fighting against the nature.

Influence of nomadic life and desert life.

 

Human relationships ( 인간 관계 )

-K

The concept of "we"”would play a big role in any group. As long as one has the concept "we"”in the group that he belongs to, the outcome would be a big synergy.

-A

Based on self-interests.

 

Concept of Independence and Dependency ( 독립심과 의존심)

-K

People are dependent on their family.  (Children depend on their parents until they get married. Some children are dependent on their parents and family even after they get married.)

Humility is virtue. They tend to put themselves down.

If you are the first to throw punch, you are the bad one. Even if a criminal got hit, the criminal could argue , "You hit me first, that's wrong!"

-A

People are very independent . (As children go to college they leave their home.)

 

Concept of labor and pay ( 노동관 )

-K

Not calculative. This is the special characteristic that derives from Korean humanism.

-A

Calculative

 

Excuses ( 변 명 )

-K

Usually have a good excuse.  A man who has horrible handwriting would blame on the writing brush. A woman who cannot make a good rice cake would blame on the rice cake maker. If some people are financially successful they would attribute to their own abilities and luck, but if they face financial hardship they would blame on their ancestors.

-A

If they have a good reason they would bring it up. If not, they would admit their mistake or shortcomings and apologize.

 

Attitude toward other peoples kindness ( 호의에 대한 반응 )

-K

Although they feel grateful they would not use the word "Thank you."” Rather, they would say, "Sorry."” Usage of "Thank you"” and “"Sorry"” are sometimes interchangeable.

-A

Frequently use the word "Thank you."”

 

Consciousness of others ( 타인에 대한 의식 )

-K

Strong. Focus on agreements. (e.g. "I'm sorry, but..." or I may be wrong, but...")”

Avoid responsibilities.

If you are ahead of trends you will be looked down.

-A

Not strong.

Feel comfortable with differences of opinions.

Challenges ones own abilities. (“Old man and Sea”- by Hemingway)

Create trends.

 

Concept of getting something extra when purchasing ( 덤의 사고 )

-K

When customers buy something, it is common for them to receive extra things in addition to the actual product they purchased.

Employees receive bonus on a regular basis.

Influenced by this culture, many public officials do not feel guilty about briberies or corruption.

-A

The store would take price off for customers rather than giving out extra items.

Employee bonus is irregular.

 

Consciousness of the relation ( 연의 의식 )

(blood, regional, school relation ( 혈연, 지연, 학연)

-K

It is very strong.

If you want to succeed in Korea, you have to find the right connection for your field.

Due to unitary language, culture and race, they have a strong concept of community (especially alumni, blood relations, and regional pride)

-A

It is not as strong as in Korea.

Gifts ( 선물 )

-K

If the gift is small, it is considered to be rude.

-A

If the gift is big, it is considered bribery.

 

Culture of offering something ( 권면 풍습 )

-K

Even if the other person says “NO,” it is considered to be polite to offer many times. The art of refusal and re-offering are viewed as a sign of modesty and humility.

-A

Clear line between “Yes” and “No.”

 

Loyalty/Dignity/Honor/Duty (giving gifts) ( 체면 )

-K

Even if one doesn't want to he would end up going to funerals, farewell parties, weddings, etc. (out of obligations)

If one doesn't have enough of what he is distributing, he would give the smallest portion to the one closest to him.

-A 

Will not give gifts if one doesn’t want to.

When distributing things, one would give out according to how much he wants to give to each person.

 

Common consciousness ( 의식 구조 )

-K

Family oriented. Family members are interdependent based on “"Injung."”

Sacrifice of an individual are expected at the cost of well being of the family.

(e.g.- Younger sister might choose to give up college so that her older brother could attend college if their family can not afford to send both of then to college.

If you don't have “"Injung",” you are viewed as a cold-hearted person.

Japanese: Loyalty is very important.

-A

Based on rationality and logic/contract.

 

Concept of “we” ( 우리 개념 )

-K

Very strong. ( As long as one is included in "we", he would be non-calculative and selfless. Self-sacrifice would even take place.

Strong concept of family tree, family name, same hometown, alumni, etc.

-A

Concept of "we"”is very weak.

 

Human relations ( 인간 관 계 )

-K

The word “"In-gan"”(human) literally means relationship among people. This is how much human relationship is viewed as important in Korea.

-A

Strong emphasis on individuality.

 

Concept of “"Jung"” ( 정의 개념 )

-K

The more relationships and time you have with others, the deeper the “Jung” becomes.

The deeper the “Jung” among a group of people, the better the effect/value/outcome/quality of the effort made by the group.

Non-calculative.

-A

There is no appropriate word for "Jung".”

Very calculative.

 

Attitude towards rank/order ( 서열 의식 )

 

1. Locations of desks in office

-K

The location of desks are decided based on the rank of the people within the office.

-A

It is NOT a big deal to consider locations of desks based on rank.

 

2. When sitting in a room

-K

Older people sit on "Ah-ret-mok"”(the warmer part of the room) and the younger people on the other side.

-A

You could sit anywhere you want to.

 

3.    Priority/rank of body parts

-K

If you pour out drink for an older person with your LEFT hand, it is considered very rude.

Two hundred years ago, there were servants in aristocratic household. When pricing the worth of each servant, left handed ones were valued at half price of the right handed ones.

-A

There are no particular importance over one part of the body over the others.

 

4. Head

-K

They put importance on the head. They believed that the head contains the spirit of a person. A hat must be well kept.

-A

Sometimes people would sit on their hat.

 

5. If someone tells you that he had purchased an apartment

-K

You would respond by saying, "Where? How big? How expensive?"”

-A

You would respond by saying, "Where? Is it nice?"

 

Contract ( 계 약 )

1.Renting of office space

-K

Not specific.

Many gray areas.

-A

Very specific.

You must pay rent even if you are not using the office space if its within the contract period.

 

2.Office hours

-K

Volunteer overtime.

-A

Try to avoid overtime.

Everything is based on contracts.

 

3.Vacation

-K

Sometimes employees might postpone vacation if the workload is very heavy and it might affect the company.

-A

Plan vacations according to personal schedule/need rather than the situation of the company.

 

4.Working within job descriptions

              -K

               You must do more than your job description requires you to do. It is your

               responsibility to find additional work within the office.

               -A

               One would normally adhere to job descriptions on the contract.

If you are helping others, it would be done with great caution since it might be viewed as taking away other's work.

 

               5. Employment

               -K

               You are employed as one of the employees in the company.

               You are required to sign a contract.

               -A

               You are employed to do the work that you are asked to do. (Task oriented)

              

6. Attitude toward contract ( 계 약 관 )

-K

When signing a contract, it is an agreement of basic rules. (It is not specific)

It is far more important that you are viewed as someone who is flexible.

Avoid specific contracts.

Sometimes the act of making a contract is viewed as an act of mistrust toward each other. (This is more so for people in higher ranks)

Take great pride in being Homogeneous people with one language, thus people follow customary practice and the moral of the society.

There are many gray areas when making contracts, and they put more importance on loyalty, friendship, and circumstances.

-A

There are no gray areas.

Must adhere to contracts in all circumstances.

Contracts are commonly practiced and required.

Laws and contracts are greatly developed.

There are no gray areas between friendship and contract.

(A building management in the city is unable to build modern elevator because of their contract with the elevator operator who operates the old elevator)

 

Ways of thinking ( 사고 방식 )

-K

Strong nepotism, regional prejudice, formalism, uniformity

-A

Strong universalism, pragmatism, and good Samaritan attitude.

 

 

 

 

Concept of time

1. Standard time of promise

-K

Korea, Japan, China: (interval of 15 to 30 minutes)

-A

America : (5 minute interval)-Short intervals

 

2. Making reservations

-K

Reservations could be made usually for a short period of time ahead

-A

Reservations could be made for a few weeks, months, even one year ahead of time

 

3. The length of concept of time

-K

Short  : When renting an office space or store space it usually is not more than 1 to 2 years.

-A

Renting office space- 5 to 10 years

Financing for housing: 20 to 30 years

 

Importance of appointment

-K

Not strong. It is rather easy to make an appointment.

-A

Strong. Sometimes it is difficult to make an appointment.

If you exercise/play sports with someone, it is easier to make an appointment with that person.

 

Racial discrimination ( 인종 차별 )

-K

Because Korea is a homogeneous nation they tend to shun off other race or nationality. However, racial discrimination is not strong.

There is no longer line between  aristocrats and commoners.

-A

Because America is a nation of immigrants- a good analogy would be a salad bowl of many different cultures. Racial discrimination is not allowed. Ironically, there are many incidents related to racial discrimination.

White people who are in poverty are looked down upon.

Not as many social outcasts.

There are different social classes. (e.g. Clinton, Bush)  

 

Priority ( 우선 순위 )

-K

When writing a letter one would mention the most important thing at the end of the letter.

When filing the most recent file would be placed on the back of the file.

A salesman would normally visit during afternoon.

-A

When writing a letter one would mention the most important part of the letter at the beginning of the letter

When filing the most recent file would place in the front

A salesman would feel o.k. about visiting in the morning.

 

New born babies ( 남아 선호 사상 )

-K

Koreans put more importance on baby boys

-A

Equal treatment of baby boys and baby girls.

 

Self expressions/complaints

-K

Koreans tend to restrain themselves from self- expressions or complaints.

-A

Americans express their thoughts freely.

 

Overcoming conflicts ( 상황 극복 )

-K

Through self-infliction. (In the ancient time, a mother-in-law would hit her daughter-in-law if things didn’t please her. In return, the daughter-in-law would pinch her child’s butt or kick the dog of the household to let out the anger.)

-A

Through attacking others. (If husband has an affair, wife would go see the other woman to fight.)

 

Power of observation ( 통찰력 )

-K

Strong.

If husband say, "I love you."” Wife would respond, "Gross". Affectionate verbal expressions are not frequently used. A wife should know that her husband loves her and it is not required that he tells her everyday. ”

You need to know what needs to be done with out being told.

The power of communication through eyes and ears are stronger than communication by speech.

If things harmonize between two people the result will be great, if not unexpected outcomes will arise.

-A

Weak.

Husband must frequently tell his wife that he loves her.

One must be told what needs to be done in specific manner.

 

The importance put on excellent site for graveyard ( 명당 자리 )

-K

If things do not go well, Koreans tend to blame on their parents, ancestors and the situation of the surrounding and the society.

It is very important to pick an excellent site for graveyard for ancestors as well an excellent site for houses. This is based on the belief that these things will determine well being of the descendants and family members.

-A

Americans are not picky about these things.

 

Concept of work and things (일과 사물에 대한 인식 )

-K

Tend to value results (There is a Korean expression, "It is o.k. to walk sideway as long as you arrive at Seoul."”)

-A

Tend to value process

1. What people usually say after a good meal

-K

“"I'm stuffed."”

-A

“"That was a delicious meal!"”

2. As a tourist

-K

Greatly concerned with taking pictures of own self with the background of  the tourist sites

Enjoy/prefer group tour

Because they usually take group tour the choices of tour sites are limited.

-A

American tourists focus on taking pictures of the actual sites rather then their own image.

Enjoy individual tour.

Because Americans enjoy taking individual tour, they tend to have more options when choosing tour sites.

 

Graduation Certificate

               -K

               Tend to view it as a result (formality for honor)

               -A

               Tend to view it as a new beginning.

 

 

07-2. Language, Letter, ( 언어와 문자)

 

Language of honorific expression ( 존칭 )

-Korean

Due to Confucianism the concept of Jang you yoo sea" is important- which means  younger people have to obey and behave respectfully toward elders There are strong honorific expressions.

-American

There are honorific expressions, but they are not used often.

 

Name, designation ( 호칭 )

-K

Name represents the actual person- the mind, the spirit, the personality. The name itself is something to be respected.

If people are not close to each other, they do not call each other by first name.

-A

Students call their teachers by teacher's last name ( e.g. Mr. Smith )

Giving the name of a father to his son is viewed as an act of love. (e.g. John Smith, Jr.) Also, it is common for babies to be named after their relative to show how much they love and appreciate that individual.)

 

Mr.

-K

Mr. is used for those either of younger or lower status than yourself.

-A

Mr. is a honorific expression. You could use Mr. for president.

 

Between older and younger people ( 어른과 젊은이 )/

The higher and lower position  ( 상사와 부하 )

-K

Usually people call others by the position of their profession or last name and the position together. (e.g.- Boo-jang means manager. So, you would call some a manager either "Boo-jang-nim"  or "Kim Boo-jang-nim."

-A

They usually call each other by their first names.

 

Lovers, husband and wife ( 연인, 부부사이 )

-K

In the past, husband and wife called each other by their children's names or "Yuh-bo".

(i.g. Jane's father , Mike's mom )

Younger generations generally use "Jagi", Oh-bba", "Ah-bba"

-A

They use "honey" or the person's name.

 

The order of a letter (writing) ( 문자 쓰기 순서)

-K

It is possible to write and read from left to right or from up and down.

Korean letter is strong for the power of versatility.

-A

It is only possible to write and read across- from left to right.

 

Omission of word for sentence and conversation.  (문장이나 대화상의 단어 생략)

-K

There is a lot of omission for subject, object. ( e.g.  Rather than saying, "I love you."

Korean people say, " Love"  )

They enjoy communication without speech. (By looking at each others' eyes, etc.)

-A

When one says, " I love you", it is necessary to have a subject, verb and object.

 

Writing the order of name ( 이름 쓰기 순서)

-K

Family name comes first and next comes first name. ( e.g. Rho Changhae )

-A

First name comes first and family name comes last. (e.g. Changhae Rho )

 

Writing from Korean proper noun to English ( 한국의 고유명사를 영문 표기하기 )

-K

My family name could be spelled 12 different ways. (e.g. I write Rho, my cousin write Ro ) They need to have English spelling standards for each Korean name, business name, and regional name to establish uniformity.

On internet, finding a Korean company or a college name in English is difficult. (e.g.- There are many ways of spelling Sogang University. (e.g- Seogang, Sugang, Sokang, Sukang, etc.)

In 2000, a college applicant who had  various spellings of her name on the graduation certificate, transcripts, and passport was not accepted even though she had an excellent GPA.

 

The order of verb on sentence ( 문장상의 동사 위치)

-K

Verb location comes last in a sentence.

-A

Verb comes next to the subject.

 

Writing address( 주소 쓰기 순서)

-K

Country, state, city, street, number.

-A

Number, street, city, state, country.

 

Accuracy of grammatical expressions  ( 표현 ) 

1. Personal pronouns

-K

Usage of personal pronouns are limited and unclear. (e.g. I, You, He, She)

               -A

               Clear usage of personal pronouns.

               Frequently usage of "I"”

               Responsible for ones own action.

2. Tense

-K

Unclear usage of tense (No clear usage of past, presence, & future)

-A

Clear usage of tense (Clear usage of past, presence, & future)

3. Singular and plural nouns

-K

Unclear usage of singular and plural nouns

-A

Clear usage of singular and plural nouns

 

 

07-3.  Equality and Harmony

 

Concept of Equality ( 평등 개념 )

-K

Neighbors, friends and relatives go through difficult time together. They help one another and through this strong bond and the sense of equality is formed. The wealthy household makes extra portions of meal just incase they might have unexpected people drop by. (for guests, beggars, etc.) This relates to the concept of“"Injung".  In the 50's the daughter-in-laws of the household usually ended up eating the cold rice that was not eaten from the previous meal.  

On the other hand, there is a saying, "If a cousin buys land, my stomach hurts."” This means that people got easily jealous of others who rose above them financially.

-A

It is not common to share financial burdens with neighbors, relatives or friends.  If other people rise above financially people are happy for them. 

 

A mind-set that follows the crowd ( 동조의식 )

-K

In a classroom, if the teacher says, "Do you understand what I am saying?" the students are expected to say, "Yes!"” even if they don’t understand. If a person says, "No",” then he is viewed as troublesome.

-A

It is o.k. to say, "I don't understand."” in a classroom, even if you are the only one who is having trouble understanding in the classroom.

 

Preference of color( 색깔 선호도 )

 

-K

People usually stay away from primary colors. (e.g.-  In the past, primary colors were worn by the king or by shaman.)

-A

They like primary colors.

 

 

07-4. Sports

 

Playing sports ( 자신이 직접 운동 경기하기 )

-K

There are not many local sports teams. People are not as involved.

-A

There are many ; To the point where  they make many teams.

 

Preferred sports ( in the order of general popularity)( 좋아하는 운동 )

-K

soccer, volley ball, basket ball, table tennis

-A

Football, baseball, basketball, car race

 

Watching sports game ( 운동 경기 관람하기 )

-K

They enjoy watching sports games.

-A

They watch sports passionately.

It is jokingly said that a doctor will stop his operation to go watch  the Super Bowl.

Usually men prefer to watch the Super Bowl over going on vacation to foreign country.

 

Community sports teams ( 동네 운동 경기팀 )

-K

There are only a few.

-A

There are many. America is said to have over 1 million community sports teams.

 

Sports Club

-K

There are not many.

-A

There are many. Each community has at least one.

 

Cheerleaders ( 치어 걸 )

-K

There are not many.

-A

There are many.

Cheerleaders became one of the highlight of football.

The practices and training required of cheerleaders take as much time as the practices and training required of football players.

The competition of becoming a cheerleader fierce and the parents are very supportive.

(e.g. Over a three day period , a team of cheerleaders was established by choosing 12 contestants out of 200 applicants.)

 

 

08. Religion ( 종교 ) & Moral ( 도덕 )

 

1. Buddhism

-K

Longevity, health, many offspring, wealth  focus on the present life

-A

India (Reward in future)

2. Christianity 

-K

Focus on present blessing/reward and service

-A

Focus on salvation (reward in the future)

 

 The concept of moral ( 도덕 개념 )

-K

They maintain moral by the concept of honor and "Injung" ( which means a kind mind/heart ).

(e.g. Children do certain things to please their parents. Children will not do certain things fearing that it will make their parents unhappy.)

-A

Children will not do certain things because it is the rule of the house or the parents will prohibit them.

Law-oriented. People will do certain things for benefits.

 

Angels ( 천사 )

-K

Angels travel on the clouds.

-A

Angels have wings.

 

Concept/Mythology of god(s) ( 신관 )

-K

A bear endures in a cave by eating garlics and bitter plants to become a human. In the end, the bear becomes a beautiful woman who eventually becomes the mother of "Dahn-goon"”- the first ruler of Korean history.

-A

God of creation, the only God.

 

End