Culture Shock From Living In Korea?

Summary

In this insightful discussion, a diverse group of foreigners share their cultural shocks experienced while living in Korea. They express surprise at the high level of trust in public spaces, the absence of trash cans, and the distinct Korean dining etiquette, particularly the loud chewing. Many appreciate the efficiency of public transportation and the kindness of locals, contrasting it with their home countries. They also touch on adapting to cultural differences, such as the importance of using two hands in exchanges and the complexity of waste sorting. Overall, the conversation highlights both challenges and joys of adjusting to life in Korea.

Takeaways

• 😀 Foreigners in Korea often experience a sense of trust, noting that lost items, like phones and wallets, are usually returned.
• 😀 The lack of public trash cans on the streets surprises many newcomers.
• 😀 Cultural differences in eating habits, such as loud chewing and spitting, are noted as shocking by some foreigners.
• 😀 Foreigners find the public transportation system in Korea to be highly convenient and affordable compared to their home countries.
• 😀 The drastic change in weather is a significant shock for those coming from warmer climates.
• 😀 Many foreigners express amazement at the number of people walking everywhere in Seoul, highlighting its bustling urban life.
• 😀 The speed and efficiency of medical services in Korea stand in contrast to experiences in countries like France, where appointments can take longer.
• 😀 The kindness of locals is frequently mentioned, with many foreigners noting the willingness of Koreans to help, even if there's a language barrier.
• 😀 The tradition of giving and receiving items with both hands is a cultural difference that some find difficult to adjust to.
• 😀 Sorting waste in Korea is more complex than in other countries, which is a learning curve for many newcomers.

Q & A

What cultural shock did foreigners experience regarding trust in Korea?

Many foreigners noted the high level of trust in Korea, mentioning that they could leave their belongings like jackets and phones unattended without fear of theft.

What was surprising about the public trash cans in Korea?

Foreigners found it shocking that there are very few trash cans on the streets in Korea, which contrasts with their home countries.

How do Koreans eat in public according to the foreigners?

Some foreigners were surprised by the loud chewing sounds made by Koreans while eating, which they found different from their cultural norms.

What did a foreigner mention about the clothing choices of Korean women in cold weather?

One foreigner expressed confusion about how Korean women could wear mini skirts in cold weather, as they themselves were dressed warmly.

How does the public transportation system in Seoul compare to other countries?

Foreigners appreciated the convenience and affordability of public transportation in Seoul, finding it much better than what they were used to in their home countries.

What was a significant difference in healthcare experiences mentioned by foreigners?

One foreigner highlighted the speed and efficiency of healthcare in Korea, contrasting it with the longer waiting times and bureaucratic processes in France.

What cultural differences did foreigners observe regarding personal space on public transport?

Foreigners noted that people in Korea tend to avoid sitting too close to others on public transportation, which differs from their experiences back home.

What aspect of Korean culture did foreigners find difficult to adapt to regarding waste disposal?

The complexity of sorting garbage in Korea was noted as a challenge, with one foreigner mentioning the lack of a food waste category compared to their home country's simpler system.

What positive experiences did foreigners have with the local people in Korea?

Many foreigners expressed gratitude for the kindness of locals, mentioning how helpful they were, even offering their phone numbers for assistance.

What is one favorite Korean food mentioned by the foreigners?

Several foreigners mentioned Korean barbecue as a favorite, with one individual also enjoying gimbap for its convenience.