Korean Job Discussion Forums

stat · Joined: 22 Apr 2005

I am shocked at the attitude of many posters towards this incident. The thread starter's action was good imo.

Of course it is rarely - if ever - possible to look at situations like this objectively. There is a 'Korean' attitude to wife-beating that is different to a 'UK' attitude, and we should be considerate of this when living in Korea, with Koreans.

But we're also people, and if the first reaction of any person at seeing *anybody* being thrashed with extreme and disproportionate levels of force is NOT total revulsion and an impulse to prevent the beating then they should be ashamed, imo.

I was often told "When in Rome, do as the Romans do" when I lived in Korea, and I agree to an extent with that. But we need to be true to ourselves as well, and I couldn't live with letting that guy beat his wife. I once saw a Korean guy dragging his girlfriend (I assume) through campus by the hair while she was screaming. I didn't get involved, I wish I had. That was four years ago.

On the subject of wife-beating in general, I think there are a variety of actions preferable to a beating that are more effective and more humane. It is our responsibility as humans to help educate our brothers and sisters, irrespective of their nationality.

Humanity over nationality.

Homer · Guest

A sad episode in the sad history of abuse towards women.

It is always a touchy question as to getting involved or not in a situation like the OP described.

I don't think jumping in and pummeling the guy would have been the right choice. In fact it would have been the worse choice as it would simply be more violence.

Calling the cops (assuming you spoke Korean) would have been an idea.

All in all, a tough call.