Korean Job Discussion Forums

stevemcgarrett · Joined: 24 Mar 2006

I've only been in Korea for a year, so I can't fairly answer my own question. I've been a little critical in some of my earlier threads of some things here, and even most of these were tentative observations.

For the record, this thread isn't intended as troll bait, or an attempt to send up a test balloon.

I'm just really curious to know from those who've been here awhile, are immersed in the culture and language, and have an ounce of objectivity that allows them to gaze beyond the blinders of the typical expat.

Based on my first impressions, I must say that one thing that surprises me is how Koreans seem more like Japanese than Chinese to me. I expected just the opposite. Of course, the colonial legacy must have had something to do with that.

And, no, I'm not trying to take away from Koreans the unique aspects of their culture.

Which brings me back to my question: What do you like about Koreans or find to be uniquely Korean in a positive way?

PimpofKorea · Posted: Mon Jan 15, 2007 10:18 pm Post subject:

Their money......thats about it really

rothkowitz · Joined: 27 Apr 2006

I often hear that Japanese families never really accept foreigners into their family(ie after marriage)

I've been made to feel welcome and have had responsibilities extended to me(funeral).All the same,I wouldn't step in and start telling people what to do,but I've never been made to feel like teats on a bull.

Anyways,I married a Korean but I certainly didn't marry korea.

In fact,I've given up on expecting that much from Korea in terms of variety and internationalism.

SarcasmKills · Joined: 07 Apr 2003 Location: Seoul

What's not to like?

Neutral

sadsac · Joined: 22 Dec 2003 Location: Gwangwang

Their hospitality. When you are accepted into their clique, they can be incredibly hospitable. Smile

migooknom · Joined: 10 Dec 2004

they like to share their food with you.

shifter2009 · Joined: 03 Sep 2006 Location: wisconsin

ChuckECheese · Joined: 20 Jul 2006

Fact that they don't speak English.

Demophobe · Joined: 17 May 2004

I like when they are racist.

I get free stuff, extra fruit, put in the front of lines or skip them altogether...

Wink

tzechuk · Joined: 20 Dec 2004

You know, I am not too sure that I really do like Korea that much but I sure as hell love my husband, so I put up with it.

RACETRAITOR · Joined: 24 Oct 2005 Location: Seoul, South Korea

I like a few things:
-they have a rebellious spirit (when they aren't conformist)
-they seek knowledge and are students for life, even if they go about it the wrong way sometimes. In western countries if you study a lot you're a nerd
-they are emotionally expressive people and you see a lot more colourful emotions than in western countries
-the drinking culture is fun most of the time

andrew · Joined: 30 Jan 2003

.....

Dev · Joined: 18 Apr 2006

Two years here and still don't understand these people so I can't answer.

stevemcgarrett · Joined: 24 Mar 2006

andrew:

Gamecock · Joined: 26 Nov 2003

I have to say the consistent eye candy keeps me going on bad days! Very Happy

This is the only culture I've been in where the ladies wear very short skirts during sub-zero weather (and in contrast, for some reason, they will throw on pants in the middle of a scorching August day...???).

There are other things I like as well...I guess...