South Korean culture is often celebrated on the global stage for its infectious K-pop beats and the dramatic allure of its K-dramas.
But while the neon lights of Seoul and iconic TV locales like Nami Island might draw initial attention, the soul of this nation lies in its age-old traditions, deeply rooted cultural concepts, and customs that resonate with stories of yesteryears.
Dive in, as we journey beyond the mainstream, into the very soul of South Korea, unveiling its rich concepts, customs, traditions, and so much more.
Cultural Concepts in South Korea
Jeong
Jeong is the invisible bond and affection shared between people, forming the bedrock of many relationships in Korean society.
It is an emotional connection that goes beyond friendship or love; it’s an innate sense of camaraderie, an unspoken understanding that silently strengthens ties.
Jeong is nurtured over time. It’s born out of shared experiences, memories, and mutual understanding.
You may find Jeong among long-time neighbors, childhood friends, coworkers, and even between a regular customer and the owner of a local diner.
Jeong is what compels a Korean mother to pack an extra serving of kimchi for her son’s friend or what makes a local ajumma (older woman) offer unsolicited advice as if you were her own child.
It’s a mutual affection that doesn’t always demand reciprocity but exists for the sheer warmth of human connection.
Han
Embedded deeply within the Korean psyche, “Han” is a cultural concept that doesn’t have a direct translation in English, making it all the more intriguing.
Han embodies feelings of deep sorrow, regret, and unfulfilled dreams. It’s the pain of unresolved injustices, the anguish of missed opportunities, and the lament of lives not fully lived.
Historically, Korea has faced a tumultuous past with invasions, colonial rule, wars, and division. Over centuries, this collective suffering and shared history of the Korean people have birthed the concept of Han.
It’s the emotional residue of collective traumatic experiences that linger, even as the nation leaps forward in modernity.
Han represents the broader societal sentiment—a collective mourning that is passed down through generations. And while it is deeply rooted in pain and despair, it also becomes a driving force for resilience, perseverance, and hope.
Nunchi
Nunchi is the subtle art of reading the mood, gauging others’ feelings, and understanding the context of situations without verbal explanations. It’s a blend of emotional intelligence, intuition, and social awareness. In Japanese, we also call this “Kuuki wo Yomu” which roughly translates to “Reading the room.”
In a society that values group harmony, possessing good Nunchi is considered an asset. It helps navigate hierarchical structures, whether in familial settings, workplaces, or among friends.
Someone with quick Nunchi can promptly assess a situation and adjust their behavior to avoid potential conflicts or miscommunications.
For instance, if a group of friends is discussing a sensitive topic and one individual, perhaps unknowingly, is about to make a controversial comment, someone with good Nunchi might swiftly change the subject to prevent discomfort.
Hweshik
Navigating the intricate layers of South Korean work culture, one will inevitably encounter the practice of “Hweshik.”
Hweshik is a ritualistic gathering of colleagues after working hours, where work-related hierarchies blur, conversations flow freely, and the soju glasses clink endlessly. Similar to the Japanese cultural concept of “Nominication.”
At first glance, Hweshik might seem akin to a Western office happy hour, but it has its distinct flavor deeply rooted in Korean work ethics. It’s a structured yet informal setting where employees, regardless of their ranks, come together to share meals, drinks, and occasionally, a round of karaoke.
The choice of place can range from local barbecue joints to fancy restaurants, and in some instances, the night can extend to the wee hours of the morning.
The primary objective of Hweshik is team building. It serves as a space for employees to interact outside the formal confines of the office, facilitating open dialogues, strengthening team cohesion, and fostering a sense of belonging. It’s also an opportunity for managers and senior staff to show appreciation towards their subordinates, often by paying for the meal.
However, Hweshik isn’t without its criticisms. The expectation to drink, sometimes heavily, might not sit well with everyone. Participation, often seen as a sign of commitment to the company, can sometimes border on obligation, potentially leading to other social issues.
The evolving Korean work culture is, however, witnessing changes with younger generations advocating for a more inclusive and flexible approach to Hweshik.
What is the Religion in South Korea?
Over the years, South Korea has been a melting pot of diverse religious practices. The landscape has evolved with traditional Korean beliefs intertwining with imported religions like Buddhism, Christianity, and more. Here’s a breakdown:
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No Religion: Nearly half of South Koreans identify as non-religious. This group comprises about 56% of the population. While many claim no formal religious affiliation, elements of traditional Korean shamanism and ancestral rites might still be practiced by some within this category.
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Christianity: Christianity has a significant presence in South Korea. Divided between Protestantism and Roman Catholicism, Christians constitute around 28% of the population. South Korea has one of the largest Christian populations in East Asia, with Protestant denominations being slightly more prevalent than Catholic ones.
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Buddhism: Once the dominant religion of the peninsula, Buddhism now represents around 15% of the population. Korean Buddhism has a rich history, with temples scattered throughout the country. South Korea’s Buddhism leans more towards the Mahayana tradition.
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Other Religions: The remaining 1% consists of various smaller religious groups, including Jeungsanism, Confucianism, and other indigenous and syncretic sects. Some of these practices, especially Confucian rites, have deep historical roots in Korea and influence cultural norms and behaviors beyond strictly religious contexts.
What are the Traditions in South Korea?
Doljanchi
Doljanchi, often simply referred to as “Dol,” is one of the most celebrated milestones in a Korean person’s life.
Historically, due to various diseases and the absence of medical advancements, many children in Korea did not survive past infancy. Making it to the first birthday was thus a significant achievement. Doljanchi became a way to celebrate this milestone, expressing gratitude for the child’s health and survival.
The Dol ceremony usually brings together family and friends. It’s often a grand affair, sometimes even resembling wedding receptions in scale. Parents dress their child in a “Hanbok,” a traditional Korean outfit.
One of the highlights of Doljanchi is the Doljabi ceremony. Various objects representing different paths in life are placed in front of the child. These can include items like a pencil (scholar), money (wealth), a string (long life), a stethoscope (doctor), or even a microphone (entertainer). The child is then encouraged to pick an item, and this choice is often playfully predicted as a sign of the child’s future traits.
Baek-il
Baek-il is another significant tradition that celebrates a child’s early life. Specifically, it marks the 100th day after a child’s birth.
Due to how things were back then, if a child reached 100 days, it was seen as a good sign that the child would survive infancy, hence, Baek-il became another day of celebration.
In the past, the first 100 days were a period of semi-seclusion for the baby and the mother. This was done to protect the baby from diseases. During these 100 days, mothers would often avoid going outside and limit visitors to protect the child from potential illnesses.
The child’s 100th-day milestone indicated the end of this period, signifying that the child could now be introduced to the outside world.
Jesa
Jesa is a traditional Korean memorial ceremony performed to honor and commemorate deceased ancestors. Rooted deeply in Confucian ideals, Jesa has been observed in Korean culture for centuries and symbolizes the deep veneration Koreans have for their ancestors.
The ceremony reaffirms the bond between the living and the deceased, and it underscores the Korean belief in the continued presence of the deceased in the lives of their descendants.
A typical Jesa ritual involves the following steps:
Preparation: Before the ceremony begins, the family cleans the house and prepares ritual foods. These foods typically include rice, soup, meat dishes, fish, fruits, and alcohol, among others.
Setting the Table: The table for Jesa is set according to strict guidelines. Incense, candles, and a wooden name tablet representing the deceased are also placed on the table.
Performing the Ritual: The ceremony starts with deep bows from family members. These bows are a sign of respect and are performed in a specific order, usually starting with the eldest male family member. After bowing, participants make offerings of food and drink to the spirits, pouring alcohol into a bowl and placing small portions of food onto the tablet.
Communicating with the Ancestors: A key part of the Jesa ritual is the belief that the deceased’s spirit visits during the ceremony. Family members may share recent family news, seeking guidance or blessings.
Concluding the Ritual: After the offerings and prayers, the food is shared among the family members, turning the somber occasion into a communal meal.
South Korean Traditional Dance
Korean traditional dances carries its unique flavor and story. They’ve been preserved and passed down generations, ensuring that the heart of Korea’s artistic past remains beating today. Here are just some of them:
Jeongjae (Court Dances): Originating in the royal courts, these dances were exclusive to the palace and reserved for royal events and ceremonies. They emphasize grace, discipline, and slow movements. Costumes and music accompanying Jeongjae are also lavish and refined. An example is the Cheoyongmu, performed to chase away evil spirits and invite peace and prosperity. The dance narrates a story where the god Cheoyong finds another man in his room with his wife and sings and dances instead of becoming angry. It is inscribed in UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List from 2009 and enlisted as South Korean Intangible Cultural Property from 1971.
Minsogak (Folk Dances): These dances reflect the daily lives, challenges, and emotions of common South Korean people. Buchaechum, also known as the fan dance, performers use vibrant fans painted with flowers, birds, or butterflies. Movements simulate nature scenes like a flowing river or blooming flowers. Nongak (Farmer’s Dance), originated in farming communities and celebrated a successful harvest. It’s dynamic and involves acrobatics, drumming, and dancing. You can often find these dances performed in Traditional Hanok Villages.
Shamanistic Dances: Rooted in Korea’s ancient shamanic traditions, these dances have a strong spiritual significance and are usually performed during religious ceremonies. Take for example the Salpuri, a shamanistic ritual dance intended to exorcise evil spirits. The dancer, holding a white scarf, channels the sorrow of the Korean people, representing themes of longing and purification. There’s also the Donghae Byeolsingut Talnori, this dance originates from the eastern coast of Korea. It’s a mask dance and exorcism rite combined, aiming to console the spirits of the dead.
South Korean Traditional Music
South Korea’s traditional music, known as “gugak,” is a symphony of sounds that capture the nation’s soul and history.
One of the most revered genres is “Jeongak,” often likened to classical court music. This sophisticated genre is designed for the elite and is characterized by its slow, delicate, and elegant melodies. On the other hand, “Minyo” encompasses regional folk songs that vary in style and content across the country. “Pansori,” a narrative music genre, combines singing and storytelling, where a single vocalist paints vivid tales to the rhythm set by a drummer.
These genres come alive through a host of traditional instruments, each contributing its unique voice to the musical ensemble:
- Gayageum: A 12-stringed zither, it’s the soul of many compositions, with its resonant and melodic sound.
- Geomungo: This 6-stringed zither, played with a bamboo stick, offers a rhythmic and deep sound contrasting the gayageum.
- Daegeum: A bamboo transverse flute, its powerful sound adds emotion and depth.
- Haegeum: With only two strings, this bowed instrument provides poignant undertones.
- Piri: Resembling an oboe, its versatility ranges from soft melodies to dramatic tones.
- Janggu: This hourglass-shaped drum sets the rhythm, vital for the dance and pace of musical pieces.
What to Eat in South Korea
Korean cuisine is renowned for its balance, variety, and emphasis on seasonal and regional ingredients. When you’re in South Korea, here’s a compilation of what you absolutely should savor:
Kimchi: Fermented vegetables, primarily cabbage and radish, seasoned with chili pepper, garlic, ginger, and jeotgal. Korea’s soul food.
Bulgogi: Marinated slices of beef or pork grilled on a barbecue. The marinade typically contains soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and pepper.
Samgyeopsal: Grilled pork belly, wrapped in fresh lettuce or perilla leaves with garlic, ssamjang, and other accompaniments.
Bibimbap: A mixed rice dish with seasoned vegetables, meat, gochujang chili paste, and often a fried egg.
Japchae: Stir-fried glass noodles combined with vegetables, soy sauce, sesame oil, and sometimes meat.
Tteokbokki: Spicy rice cakes in a thick red chili sauce, often accompanied by fish cakes and boiled eggs.
Gimbap: Rice and various ingredients rolled in seaweed, similar to sushi but uniquely Korean.
What is Korean Language like?
The Korean language, known as Hangugeo in South Korea and Joseonmal in North Korea, serving as the official language of both Koreas.
What truly sets Korean apart is its unique script, Hangul. Introduced in the 15th century by King Sejong the Great and his scholars, Hangul was a departure from the previously used Classical Chinese characters. It’s often praised for its logical design, with claims that its simplicity enables quick learning.
Another nuance is the multiple levels of politeness and formality in the language, similar to the Japanese language. This means verb endings and pronouns change based on the relationship between speakers. This layering of politeness levels intricately intertwines with the Korean society’s hierarchical nature, making the language not just a means of communication but a reflection of cultural values.
Honorifics also play a role in Korean. These are a set of verb endings and terms that signify respect, often reflecting societal hierarchies. Using them correctly is of utmost importance, especially when addressing elders or those in positions of authority.
Useful Korean Phrases for Travel
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Korean
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English
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Annyeonghaseyo
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Hello
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Annyeonghi gaseyo
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Goodbye
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Gamsahamnida
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Thank you
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Ne
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Yes
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Aniyo
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No
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Sillyehamnida
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Sorry
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Jebal
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Please
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Moreugesseoyo
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I don't understand
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Igeo eolmaeyo?
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How much is this?
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Hwajangsil eodieyo?
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Where is the bathroom?
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Gireul ilheosseoyo
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I'm lost
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Yeongeo hal su isseoyo?
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Do you speak English?
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Dowajuseyo!
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Help!
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Traditional Festivals in South Korea
Jeju Fire Festival
The Jeju Fire Festival, locally known as Jeju Jeongwol Daeboreum Field Burning, is an annual celebration on Jeju Island (home to Hallasan, South Korea’s tallest peak) that typically takes place in late February to early March, marking the lunar New Year.
Jeju Island so happens to have an almost unique culture of its own, separate from the mainland, from the Haenyeo Women Divers and the Dol Hareubang.
Originating from an age-old agricultural practice, Jeju farmers would historically set their fields on fire. This was done to get rid of pests, clear old grass, and use the ash as a fertilizer for the upcoming planting season. This ritual, believed to ensure a bountiful harvest, has been transformed over the years into this vibrant festival.
As night falls during the festival, an entire hillside is set ablaze, creating a mesmerizing sight of orange and red flames against the dark sky. The torch march is another highlight, where thousands, bearing torches, parade around the town leading up to the main hill ignition.
Gangneung Danoje Festival
The Gangneung Danoje Festival is one of Korea’s most famous traditional festivals, recognized by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. Rooted deeply in history, the festival is held in the city of Gangneung.
Originating from shamanistic celebrations of the fifth month of the lunar calendar, it marks the day when the sun’s yang energy is at its peak, enhancing the earth’s vitality. Traditionally, this was a time to pray for a fruitful harvest and the well-being of one’s family.
One of the major events is the Danoje shinje, a shamanistic ritual invoking the city’s guardian spirits.
The festival is a vibrant explosion of colors, sounds, and activities. There are wrestling matches, known as ssireum, which are a highlight for many attendees. Traditional swing riding, or geune-ttwigi, involves women swinging high into the air, symbolizing the casting away of bad luck and the welcoming of good fortune.
Samjinnal
Samjinnal is a traditional Korean holiday that signifies the coming of spring. Falling on the third day of the third lunar month, Samjinnal celebrates the warming of the weather and the awakening of nature. The name itself, “Samjinnal,” translates to “third day” in English, highlighting its date on the lunar calendar.
Samjinnal is believed to have its roots in ancient shamanistic celebrations of spring. The day is considered particularly significant because it is when the positive energy of yang starts to grow stronger, chasing away the cold yin energy of winter.
It’s a time when animals come out of hibernation and plants begin to sprout, marking a period of renewal and rejuvenation.
Customs in South Korea
Whether you’re entering someone’s home, it’s customary to remove your shoes.
Bowing is a traditional way of showing respect. The depth of the bow generally indicates the level of respect shown.
When pouring a drink for an elder, it’s polite to use both hands to hold the bottle. Similarly, when receiving a drink, holding your glass with both hands is a sign of respect.
Never stick chopsticks vertically into a bowl of rice; this resembles a funeral ritual. Wait for elders to start eating before you do.
Writing someone’s name in red ink is a big no-no. Traditionally, it’s believed that this means you wish death upon them, as red ink was used to write the names of the deceased.
Tipping isn’t customary in South Korea. In restaurants, taxi rides, and other service industries, it’s not expected, and can sometimes even be considered rude.
The number 4 is considered unlucky (similar to “13” in Western cultures) because it sounds like the word for “death.” Some buildings may skip this floor number.
Don’t be surprised if you see rolls of toilet paper on tables at restaurants. It’s customary to use toilet paper as napkins, and you’ll often find them outside the restroom rather than inside.
Jjimjilbangs are public bathhouses, and they play an essential role in Korean leisure culture. More than just a place to bathe, they have saunas, sleeping areas, entertainment lounges, and even restaurants. Unfortunately, I got my shoes stolen in one of them though.
Ordering food for delivery is common everywhere. But in Korea, you can order almost any type of meal to be delivered at any time, even late into the night. What’s more, the delivery person will come back to pick up the dishes!
South Korea is known as the plastic surgery capital of the world. Double eyelid surgery, in particular, is incredibly common, and getting it as a graduation gift isn’t out of the ordinary.
Plan Your Trip to South Korea | Best Travel Resources
Book Your Accommodations
- Booking.com – the world’s leading online booking platform for accomodations around the world, they have an extensive amount of available listings with zero booking fees and best price guarantees.
- Hostelworld – a backpacker’s best friend, Hostelworld has the largest collection of hostels and guesthouses for affordable prices.
Don’t Forget Insurance
- SafetyWing – from Nomad Insurance, an insurance by nomads for nomads. They understand our lifestyle well and have really comprehensive and flexible plans that cater to any traveler.
Find Cheap Flights
- Kiwi.com – my go-to for booking and finding the cheapest flights and it’s helped me save tons of money. They do virtual interlining which is connecting flights from airlines that do not codeshare, so you can find routes that you wouldn’t be able to find normally.
Join Tours & Activities
- GetYourGuide – is one of the best places to find unique tours and activities. I found that it’s an excellent way to meet fellow travelers and create fond memories. They are not only limited to tours as they also offer niche services such as skip-the-line tickets or private transfers.
Catch a Ride
- Rentalcars.com – nothing beats the freedom of the road, Rentalcars.com is the world’s largest online car rental service. They operate across 160 countries so they’re the perfect partner to work with if you find yourself wanting a ride.
