A Glance into Korean Culture
A Glance into Korean Culture By Edmond Atemnken
http://cafe.daum.net/weeklymonday/iSZz
Edmond Atemnkeng is from Cameroon and is currently working with Janssen Korea as a Quality Operations Analyst. Currently he lives in Pyeongtaek and has been in Korea since 2008.
Every country has a unique way of living, which is called their culture. There are parts of Korean culture that foreigners should know to help them as they stay in the “Land of the Morning Calm.” Sometimes Koreans’ way of doing things may seem unreasonable to a foreigner, but they are actually necessary parts of living in Korea.
One of the first phrases foreigners will learn in Korea is “pali, palli,” which means, “quickly, quickly.” This is a necessary part of the Korean way of life, at home, at school and even in business. It is possible that this way of thinking is what has caused the fast growth in Korea’s economy in the past few decades.
While working in Korea, I found how important the chain of command is in overall Korean society. Orders usually seem to come from the top downward. If there happens be a problem, it should be handled by moving back up the chain. Trying to go directly to the top boss could possibly cause problems later.
Koreans feel happy with a foreigner who tries to fit into their way of living. A foreigner might gain respect from Korean co-workers by showing interest in Korean culture. It can be as simple as in the way you hand an object to another person using both your hands, depending on their age, or trying to write their name and your own name in Hangeul on a note. These things will leave a lasting good impression.
Another cultural difference is eye contact. In the West, usually it’s polite to look at someone’s eyes as they talk to you. Looking away might show dishonesty, disrespect or that you’re not interested. However, in Korea, eye contact might show aggression and confrontation. As a foreigner you must be careful to follow the rules of the culture you are living in.
Another important part of Korean culture is a team and team membership. It is important for co-workers to unite and work as a team both at work and during free time. Many co-workers will form a volleyball team or soccer team after work. Or they get together for dinner. This system develops loyalty and a family feeling amongst co-workers.
Lastly, it seems common for Koreans to put more trust in an oral agreement than in a signed contract. This might relate to the family feelings developed when they play together as well as work together. You wouldn’t ask a family member to sign a contract. Their spoken word would be trusted. Foreigners need to understand this difference.
The number of foreigners in Korea continues to increase every year. They are coming to study as well as work. A foreigner in Korea doesn’t have to become Korean to be respected, however, trying to understand the culture and working within it will help their stay in the land of the Morning Calm be a more pleasant, memorable experience.
10호2017년8월14일자(인쇄본).pdf