Are you perhaps planning a trip to South Korea or interested in the living style? Here is a couple of things to know about South Korea and its living style.
Currently, I’m in South Korea and doing my internship at Meiji Internships. However, I wish I knew a few things before coming here. I would love to share them with you.
#1 빨리빨리 (ppalli-ppalli) Culture
One of the main things to know about South Korea is the fact that it is a fast culture. So don’t be alarmed when you see people walking quickly to the train station or even to the convenience store.
I have been in South Korea for a couple of months and one thing that I caught on is that you either move fast or expect to be pushed out of the way. Which is completely normal and accepted here!
#2 Being stared at is common in South Korea
It might be rude to some but, in Korea staring at foreigners is extremely common. As someone who is 173 cm (5’8 feet) tall in a country where the average height for women is 161 cm (5’2 feet), I have experienced a lot of looks and the occasional pictures being taken of me.
A couple of things to know about South Korea is that the country consists of only 3.3% of foreigners. So, don’t get upset when people look at you in the subway or even in the street. They are just curious and mean no harm.
#3 South Korea’s Drinking Culture
When I first came to Korea, I was amazed at how common it is to have a bottle of beer or 소주 (soju = traditional Korean alcohol) with any meal, even breakfast! So it comes as no surprise that clubbing every night of the week is completely normal.
So as a foreigner, some things to know about South Korea is that will be offered a drink, especially if you are with Korean friends. I am not a stronger drinker, however, it is seen as rude if you decline a drink when out with your Korean friends. So I recommend accepting the drink and take a small sip to not seem rude.
#4 The new city of love
A few things to know about South Korea is that couples take their relationship extremely seriously. You will see couples matching outfits, phones, and even hair color. I find it adorable that couples show their love for one another, but some foreigners do find it a bit odd.
I have been blessed to travel to South Korea with my best friend and even we have joined the well-known “couple look” bandwagon. Currently, my best friend and I have couple rings, couple AirPods cases, and even matching lock screen wallpaper.
#5 What apps work and do not work in South Korea
Many foreigners come to South Korea thinking that all their apps will work, such as Google Maps or Yelp. However, that is not the case, I had learned that Google Maps and Yelp will not be able to help you will in South Korea.
Special things to know about South Korea is that an app called Kakao will be your best friend here. I recommend downloading KakaoTalk, KakaoMetro, KakaoMap, and any other Kakao app that you believe you will need.
Though these are only 5 things to know about South Korea, you will be able to have a smooth experience and trip. If you are interested in South Korea and want to experience it longer than a trip I recommend an internship. You can apply for an internship here and I hope to see you in South Korea!
