Korean Job Discussion Forums

[Xuanzang]

Eat and drink as much as possible...then leave and content yourself that it was a free meal. No washing up, no dishes and you can go home and make yourself feel better with soju or ice cream.

[wylies99]

[Yu_Bum_suk]

[toonchoon]

staff dinners at my old school were always fun, and half the time the Koreans sat with the foreign teachers, and everybody talked and had a great time.

of course, some people are always left out, to some extent. maybe you were one of those people this time.

[bobbybigfoot]

DD,

I can relate.. Quite often it's simply the luck of the draw. Some foreigners find themselves amongst truly genuine and thoughtful Koreans; others aren't so lucky. Myself, I've never experienced a work environment that's caring.

Generally speaking Korea is neutral on friendliness. If Koreans know you and like you, then you will see their generous and warm side. Otherwise, it's likely they will have minimum contact with you, even go so far as to act as though you aren't there.

The best you can do to break down barriers is learn a little Korean. Show some effort and the rewards will be there.

[agoodmouse]

I have a English faculty dinner tomorrow. I'm looking forward to it, except for the part where I have to sit on the floor. My legs fall asleep because sitting cross-legged style doesn't agree with me.

[weatherman]