The Korean state is made of South and North Korea. However, traditions and customs are the same in both countries. Korean culture is greatly influenced by beliefs, the philosophical brilliance of Confucius, community, and society. The two countries mainly use the Korean language for communication and their culture is primarily characterized by unique dance, music, painting, craft, and literature. However, Globalization has brought some few changes in the family patterns and social structures, especially in South Korea, which feature more flexible policies. Understanding the tradition and custom of the people is critical when you visit the country and you many need to abide by their rules and customs. Check out our dating review of KoreanCupid for more information on how to maneuver the dating world here.
Korean Family Structure
Koreans lead a family-oriented life with a hierarchical structure. The father is the head of the family and is expected to take care of most of the family needs such as shelter, health, and food. The eldest son can help his father is family matters but must obey his father and follow his decisions. Earlier, women were not expected to indulge in decision making, and males are the only one to handle external affairs. However, the culture is changing as more and more women are emerging in business executive, teaching, and national leadership positions.
Koreans Beliefs and Practices
The people Korea are sincere and believe in following protocols especially during meetings, prayers, meals, and celebrations. Gift is an integral part of the culture in Korea and is normally given according to the capacity and ability of the receiver to reciprocate. Numbers or numbers also plays an important part in gifts. For instance, seven is considered a lucky number while four is considered as an unlucky number. Yellow, red and pink colors are used to denote prosperity and happiness in the Korean culture. White, black and green colors should not be used for wrapping as they are offensive colors.
Foods and Drinks
Koreans use food and drinks to add flavors to their traditional lifestyles. Rice is a staple food in Korea, and most families eat server rice malt with kimchi. Other world’s famous Korean dishes include bibimbap, cold noodles, dakgalbi, and bulgogi. Dining and eating in Korea also involve many protocols. For instance, there are no indoor farewells, people are expected to remove shoes before entering dining rooms, and males are expected to serve drinks.
Religion
Most Koreans are Buddhist, and the teaching of this religion reflects the Korean lifestyle, arts, and culture greatly. Various Buddhist statues, temples, and monuments are part of the Korea National Treasure and Monuments. Yungdrung is one of the major Korean Buddhism’s symbols and is seen in temples and other religious places.
Korean Fashion
Traditional clothes form part of the Korean people’s culture. The traditional Korean attire is normally known as Hanbok. The Hanbok are worn mainly during traditional ceremonies such as marriages and traditional festivals. It also forms part of the official government and national dress in Korea.