Korean Job Discussion Forums

[Adventurer]

I give one on one classes. I happened to be chewing gum in one of the classes with this fellow in there. I gave him a good lesson and even a little over his time, and I go out of my way to help my students. I was chewing gum, but not like a cow. He went and complained afterwards that I was doing that. The boss wasn't mad, but he told me that it is rude in Korean society. I was kind of pissed, especially since we're both adults, and he lived in the U.S. before, and I am always polite and not rude. Do you think he was being really anal? Your thoughts on that. Of course, I won't do it again. One of my co-workers thought it was really anal of him. It seems kind of petty. I could be wrong in saying that.
If so, tell me why.

[Natalie]

I think it's ok as long as you don't chew with your mouth open...but I can imagine in Korea it is considered ruder than the 'west'. Anything related to the mouth is considered 'tabu' or 'tapu' as we say in NZ. You know - KOreans cover their mouths/teeth when they laugh. I've had this discussion recently and it's actually really interesting. It's not just that they're trying to be demure (notice how many guys do it too), but the mouth is an area that is 'private': for eating, swallowing, kissing and all the primal connotations related. An exposed mouth reminds people (apparently) of our animal nature, our basic instincts, all-in-all its 'uncivilised' to reveal that side of ourselves. Especially the teeth, I've heard some Koreans say they don't like seeing other peoples teeth when they laugh. Teeth are bared by animals when they're angry, I mean anthropologically it makes sense, but to us its so strange because we all flash our pearly whites as a sign of friendship^^ Such a huge culture difference...It's like exposing a part of the body that just shouldn't be exposed even though we all know its there, or using the bathroom with the door open, even though we all know everyone uses the bathroom. Just one of those things. Also, I believe that is one reason why smoking is so rude in Korea - even men don't smoke in formal situations in front of their seniors, even though the elders may know they smoke, but to actuallly see their juniors smoke would be another matter.

SO, in sum!~ I personally don't let my students chew gum, and I try not to chew it when I'm talking to anyone, especially students. BUT, if someone else did, I wouldn't think it was rude, just not tasteful, no pun intended.

[Adventurer]

Thanks for the response. I would understand not doing it in school. I can't remember now if when I was teaching in the U.S. if I chewed gum in class as a teacher. I think I did and so did most of my colleagues. It helps freshen the breath. I can definitely live without chewing gum. Yes, I noticed Koreans covering their mouth in embarassment when they have braces. I don't chew gum that often, I think it was more the student.
He seems very conservative. I have chewed gum before and never received a complaint. Most of my students are more laid back even this high powered executive. He wouldn't make such a trivial comment considering I work my heart out so they can improve. My students know I am dedicated and know my stuff. As they say everyone has an opinion. If one student doesn't like it, then I will stop. It is best to not give any student a reason to be offended. Every culture is different. But I have a feeling most Koreans would make an issue of something like that. They are paying customers. He is entitled to his opinion.

[keseki]

i never chewed gum in my adult classes. i think its a bit of a no-no in korean culture. i wouldnt even go into an adult class with a candy or mint in my mouth.

[mrsquirrel]

Yes.

However I hate the stuff. So it's a personal thing. I can't think of anything worse than a beautiful lady sitting there chewing away like a Fresian.

Horrible stuff. Should be banned. I know it's good for your teeth but so are tooth brushes and tooth paste.

[Richard Krainium]

Chewing gum while teaching? I don't even let my students chew gum.

[Voyeur]

would any public speaker or teacher or prof. ever chew gum even in North America?

[dreaming_saturn]

[xtchr]

Yes.

[CasperTheFriendlyGhost]

Uncouth, yes. Rude, no, unless you were smacking.

[Richard Krainium]

[Bingo]

Natalie, no offence, but it's obvious that you've gotten your info. from some travel guide rather than experience here. It's the whole mouth and throat thing here that's so disgusting. There's no taboo about displaying the contents of your mouth while eating, making noise, or horking on the street. To say that Koreans have taboos about the mouth is absurd. Was your little travel guide written by a Korean?

[philipjames]

I agree. What about Korean gum chewing habits? Sneezing and coughing over everybody around them. Chewing gum in class is highly unprofessional. Teachers shouldn't do it. But please spare me this Korean
'anything about the mouth' taboo. I wish they did have taboos about the mouth, like keeping it closed while eating. Covering it when they're yawning etc.

I agree with the above poster. Put the cultural 'guide' away and take a look around you at Korean behaviour. For a Korean to complain about Western gum chewing habits takes the cake. No, wait. Westerners trying to justify Koreans' complaints in terms of Korean 'politeness.' that takes the cake.

[Bingo]

Natalie, I just read your post again. You say "that's why smoking is (considered) so rude in Korea." Have you even visited Korea? Koreans smoke anywhere and everywhere. Anyone example of the non-taboo surrounding the mouth. Blowing smoke from your mouth around other men, women and children is the norm.

Taboo me arse.

[babtangee]

I'd be more annoyed that instead of telling you your gum chewing bothered him, he went to your boss. What a snitch! I guess he feels you are a little kid and your mommy needs to be notified to pull you into line.