Learn KOREAN by Topic┃#7 한국인의 특징

Learn KOREAN by Topic┃#7 한국인의 특징

Korean Podcast for Beginners┃Ep7. 한국인의 특징

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【PDF】Korean Podcast for Beginners┃Ep7. 한국인의 특징.pdf

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📢 The following translations are for the purpose of comprehension only
      (not exhaustive version).

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Learn KOREAN by Topic┃#7 한국인의 특징

I asked Antonio, who has been living in Korea for a long time and is knowledgeable about Korea, about the characteristics of Koreans. Koreans share certain traits with people from other Asian countries, but there are also many unique characteristics specific to Koreans. It's beneficial to understand these characteristics, as it helps one feel more comfortable behaving like a Korean while in Korea.

 

First and foremost, Koreans are accustomed to the culture of urgency, where acting quickly is valued. It is noticeable that Koreans are more active and busy at subway stations compared to people from other countries.

 

Bus drivers sometimes depart before passengers have even found their seats, and individuals often stand up and try to be ready before it has come to a complete stop. However, Koreans excel at efficiently and accurately handling tasks, which makes utilizing their services highly convenient.

 

 

 

Among Koreans, age holds significant importance, and it dictates the use of honorifics based on one's age. Age is considered so crucial that individuals of different ages may not refer to each other as "friends." However, Korean honorifics are intricate, and even Antonio often makes mistakes. Foreigners also acknowledge that understanding the age hierarchy and honorifics is necessary to thrive in a Korean company.

 

Moreover, cash is rarely used in everyday life by Koreans, who predominantly rely on credit cards. Most stores assume that customers will pay with a credit card, so foreigners are advised to use either a credit card or a T-money card when living in Korea. Additionally, Koreans have a strong affinity for spicy food and frequently order delivery. In Korea, it is incredibly convenient to use a smartphone for easily placing food delivery orders.

 

 

In addition, Koreans are known for studying late into the night or socializing with friends and colleagues over drinks. Areas populated by students and office workers remain bustling even at 10 PM. The prevalence of late-night studying and socializing has led to the availability of services and public transportation operating until late hours. This is possible because Korea maintains a good level of security, ensuring safety even during nighttime.

 

When Koreans reach the age of 30, many of them purchase a car, and it is not uncommon for every family member to own a car. Korea may not be large in size, but due to its dense population and high number of vehicles, there are often instances where the roads get congested, despite the developed transportation system.

 

 

Additionally, Koreans tend to prefer singing over dancing when spending time with friends, which explains the abundance of karaoke rooms in the country.

 

Most Koreans pursue higher education by attending university after completing high school. Many individuals even take the College Scholastic Ability Test multiple times in order to secure admission into prestigious universities.

 

Furthermore, military service is mandatory for men, typically lasting around two years, and finding employment has become challenging in recent times. As a result, Koreans, on average, start working at a later age compared to individuals from other countries.