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Korea (South)1897 Posts
This post is in response to rotinegg's Post of 'Modern Korea: Looks' rotinegg's post on Modern Korean: Looks which I'm amazed/surprised with his accuracy as well as objectivity. Very well written and balanced.
But, while I've read through comments, this type of posting is depressing to foreigners who find it hard to understand the superficiality of Koreans (although in our country it's all relative), so I've decided to write this post on the happy things you can see from Koreans.
Now this is only from a man's perspective and at being 37, I'm very much out of touch with what goes on with trends and so an so forth, but I'm going to list out the things that I think are the best things about being Korean and being in Korea.
Of course there are all the really bad things about Korea, and you can see other posts that go into detail about this and Koreans are not better people than most other, in fact, we're probably, initially one of the racist and prejudice people out there (until we get to know people, so I guess that just makes us ignorant in general), but there are some good things I'd like share with you personally. ^^
1. We're All Gay! Bathing culture and hand holding.
Well, it appears to be so, because Korean's are very comfortable hanging out with the same sex, meaning that guys hold hands, hug each other, sleep in the same bed, etc. In many respects, Koreans are always children at heart and we like to simply be comfortable with each other when we are with close friends.
When we are kids, our dad's and grand dads usually take us to the bath houses, where there are steam rooms and pools of hot and cold water. It is where everyone is completely naked (men and women are separate) and we scrub each other backs and basically sleep in the saunas and relax there for an hour or so every other week or so.
So when you go to a sauna/bath house in Korea you'll have to go in naked, but don't worry, no one cares cause it's like the bath house is where we have the right to be naked and just be men. lol. I'm sure this isn't making any sense at all.
But from a young age, there isn't any anxiety about being naked in front of other men or sexuality issues, man is man, so what.
When we go there, we can also get our entire bodies scrubbed down by other men who's job it is to scrub naked men's bodies. And vice versa for the women.
Many times during university, I'd go with my friends, after getting drunk and we'd sleep in the sauna's or during my corporate life, we'd sneak over in the afternoon for a quick 2 hour break.
Korean guys love to have sleep overs with the guys, where we get drunk, eat tones of Korean crappy take out food and then pass out on each other watching a movie or cramming into a couple of beds with 3 guys to one.
Thing is, in Korea, there is clear divide between guys and girl friends. The only time guys hang out with other girls is because it is a dating or flirting or courting situation. Otherwise Koreans tend to think, what the hell is the point having the opposite gender as a friend? Pretty useless cause when Korean men and women get together, it's all about the sparks baby. Koreans, we understand, I am a boy, you are a girl, we are not the same. And there is a certain freedom in that!
2. We love to drink together: Till puke do us part!
In Korea, it is very common to see people of all ages completely wasted all over the entire country at around 10pm to 2 am in the morning every single day! Why? Cause we love to drink together (or we force each other to drink together)! So from hot sexy girls, to middle aged business men, to retired folks, we start drinking from dinner time (around 6:30/7:00pm) and we don't stop until we can't drink any more, or we hit the time limit (depends if you're working the next day or not), or we've hit our 3rd drinking spot or so and people are sneaking away.
In Korea we have very few mental health institutions or such practices because we use these drinking sessions to do group friend counseling together. It is at these times where we yell at our friends to 'man the fuck up!' or 'you're such an idiot, obviously she is cheating on you!' and where we cry with each other or laugh to break the stress from work, or just drink until we can't think anymore about certain problems that just need time to heal. Also, by drinking to the point of no return together, we all share in the joys and pains of each other and then support one another to make it safely to the bus or taxi and get home.
In Korea, you never ever drink alone, anyone who does, you better watch to see if they jump off a bridge after because they might. If a friend is depressed or sad or having a rough time, you always make time to go and drink with them to help them get perspective.
Korean don't know the meaning of 'don't mix your alcohol'. We have such brilliant inventions as the 'poktangju' (the bomb- whiskey and beer -why it is our invention is because we drinkem all night long) and the 'somek' (soju and beer) and the 'I'll drink whatever is put in front of me'.
And when someone says, cheers, you all cheers, and one someone says, 'one shot' you all down it and while some may call Koreans alcoholics, we say, this is mental group therapy!
3. MT Members Training: Everyone is part of a group!
Koreans love to be part of groups and associations, so once you join up in a company or university or group, you're bound to go to one of these MT getaways. Usually they are at a local ski resort or a country side motel (pension). Where you'll get to flirt and show off in front of the other new comers and of course girls, where you'll learn the guiding principles of the company/university, where you will drink like nuts, and where you'll play games and talk throughout the night, like it is huge 2 day sleep over!
You'll get a designation, that you are the 43rd group and those people in your year will forever be your 'dong-gi'! and now for the rest of your life, you will have a special bond with those people! Thus, is the power of the group association in Korea.
If you are an older member of the group or company, it is your chance to pass on your knowledge as well as get a head start on any new chicks in the first year! hehe.
The entire MT get away is part of your group's history, so from this point on, at least once a year, you're 'dong-gi' will likely plan a separate company or private get away to go for a night out to a pension or resort to have some outdoor bbq or whatever. And as the group matures, you'll end up bringing your wives or children! So no matter what you do in Korea, you'll eventually be part of a group which will always have some memories to make! As well as drink like nuts with!
4. Food Food Food Everywhere: Korean food is yummy!
Korean food is pretty simple to make on the whole. But you need to know the 'taste' and the thing is Koreans tend to all think the same way, so no matter where you are in Korea, you'll always find something tasty!!!
In Korea eating out is pretty common as a social thing and you can always find a place to suit your budget with you and friends. Unless you are poor students usually one person pays or a couple and then you take turns paying for the whole thing. And if you split the bill, you just split it equally unless you just drank a bit and likely they'll say, you don't need to pay at all.
And when it is someone's birthday party in Korea, they pay for everything! Whoot, but of course you bring gifts!
But if you are meat eater like me and like to eat over live coals of fire, then Korea will be meat heaven to you!
Eating good quality foreign food in Korea is generally very very difficult, but hell, you're in Korea, why the hell are you eating foreign food anyway!
5. Friends will actually die for you. We are brothers!!
Koreans wear their hearts on their sleeves. When we swear that we are your true friends, we will go to hell and back for you until we get married and our wives break our vows of friendship for the greater good of the immediate family. But between men, at times, Koreans will tend to be discriminatory first, of course we can all be friendly and such, but if it something unfamiliar to us, we can be very hesitant or opposing, but once the bonds of friendships are made, they are set until wife does them apart.
There are good and bad Koreans of course, but our population is basically segregated into the good and the bad, there is no in between, so we are very extreme that way. But one thing that is very common is our older brother and younger brother relationships. And a lot get said about this, but what goes beyond that is when we are the same age and we are 'Chingu' ie friends. There is a lot of freedom in not being an older or younger brother role, but to simple be open as friends.
It is very hard to explain these bonds that form but basically on a mass society scale, deep levels of friendships are commonly formed whereby there is no second thought to sacrificing yourself for one another in financial or physical or in war. While there are many stories I can provide, but truly, if your Korean friends says, 'I will stand here with you' or 'I will avenge you'. They really really mean it. If there are 10 guys and only 2 of you guys, we won't run. We'll fight together, we never leave a man behind.
6. Finally: Everyone understands each other! Especially when it is time to party!
Koreans have many problems, but understanding each other isn't one of them. There is very rarely a misunderstanding in communication. Basically, if there is a misunderstanding, it was on purpose and the person is looking to cause trouble (so just knock em out first! keke). We don't argue for the sake of trying to be right, if we argue, then every knows we are just arguing cause we're pissed off and we both just want to say our piece.
The problem with Koreans is that we all think virtually the same way and so we all also think that we should be the leaders as well! haha, so while people think that Koreans are good at cooperating and we're collective people, they are absolutely wrong! We just like hanging out with each other ^^ it just looks like we cooperate well because we all think the same way, so even though it looks like we are moving in the same direction, we're arguing every step of the way who should be leading, cause again, we all want to be leading!
But one great thing about it all is that when Koreans have fun, we're all having fun! No one is self conscious or looking around when it is time to have fun, we just do it and sing and dance and drink together. We all know, when it is time to have fun and party, it is time to party! This is why Koreans tend not to get along with young North American Koreans cause they are all trying too look too cool for school while the Koreans just wanna have fun and just dance! We don't care, lets just have fun!
So if you're in Korea and you're gonna go out, just go with the flow, just smile and be free and enjoy yourself. This is Korea, there are a lot of bad things about us, but fundamentally we are a good natured people who really have our roots in our folk culture, so just enjoying life is what we all yearn and hope for!
Now of course there are many similarities in other cultures, but this all comes together as one thing in Korea and as a man visiting Korea, I think you'll come away with some life long friendships and people who will be sincere and genuine, perhaps to a fault. But not to end on a dark note, for every good Korean, there is a bad one who really is a low as it gets, but you know it as soon as you meet them cause they will be rude or very ignorant or want to cause trouble. But don't let it get to you, cause there are many beautiful good girls out there, as many as the bad ones, but the are all great to look at! Whoot!
 
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These are all really true stuff and really great qualities of Korean culture. The first time some Korean guy said he had my back, his sister came up to me later and was like, he really means it you know, he really got your back. I like living here.
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Fantastic post. It was getting depressing how people were reacting to that other thread and judging all of Korea by it in such negative ways. I was considering making a similar post, but yours is much better than anything I could have produced.
You strike bullseye with the social bonding comments. I'm still not entirely comfortable with the level of intimacy that Korean friendships entail (coming from a culture where you keep very big emotional walls up even between your close friends), but it's completely undeniable that Koreans create and keep really strong social bonds with each other. I would go as far as to say that this is the single most defining feature of Korean society.
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A much needed thread. thanks
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Calgary25969 Posts
i dont get why people have such strong opinions for / against korea. just go there. its a fun place with normal people. 99% of the stuff you read in threads won't ever affect you while youre there. the end.
Edit: I mean I get why you wrote this. And it's interesting to read the social dynamics of a place - very interesting. But people are posting "I won't go there because of this" and "I'm disheartened about studying Korean now." Why? You can't speak the language, dynamics like these will never, ever affect you. Just go there and enjoy a beer and take in the sights. People are friendly. The end.
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I just stick to arcades.
If you're good enough in Pump, you get along with people in the arcades really fast.
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Chill are you advocating a neutral opinion on Korea
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On March 23 2012 02:38 Chill wrote:
i dont get why people have such strong opinions for / against korea. just go there. its a fun place with normal people. 99% of the stuff you read in threads won't ever affect you while youre there. the end.
Edit: I mean I get why you wrote this. And it's interesting to read the social dynamics of a place - very interesting. But people are posting "I won't go there because of this" and "I'm disheartened about studying Korean now." Why? You can't speak the language, dynamics like these will never, ever affect you. Just go there and enjoy a beer and take in the sights. People are friendly. The end.
Countries being visited. Fun being had.
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Calgary25969 Posts
On March 23 2012 02:40 floor exercise wrote:
Chill are you advocating a neutral opinion on Korea
No, I'm super bullish on Korea, as are most foreigner donks (myself included) who visit there 
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United States33155 Posts
I think it's worth putting as a footnote, the word for "friend" in Korea usually envelopes a much larger group of people than it does in America
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Interesting read can't wait to go experience the culture some day, well except the gayness factor. I like the drinking all the time factor tho
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This is great. Now I want to live there despite being between 5'5" and 5'7" depending on how long it's been since I've woken up.
Edit: The "gayness" factor makes more sense than the homophobic factor we have here in America. I used to think men in America could express their appreciation for male friendships and not be considered gay for it. Then, I was considered gay for it, which hurt me because it changed how I view the male-male friendship. Note "express" does not mean physically nor does it mean flirtatiously. It means "I am a man, you are a man, and I'm happy we know each other and spend time together." Does that sound gay?
Whatever, I think I've just decided between the "big three" Asian languages to learn. I was heavily leaning Japanese due to Anime, but now I want to learn Korean more because I can always move there, I guess. It's not like being short can be any worse there than it is here.
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United States1719 Posts
yea don't let anything I said affect you if you're a foreigner, information in this thread will be much more relevant to you! cheers
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From what I read on TL being homo isn't actually considered an option in Korean culture, what's your view on this?
I ask because indeed there seems to be a lot more intimate physical conctact between Korean males that would be considered "gay" in Western context, but I'm not sure whether that's because being gay is more accepted or the complete opposite?
I must say, I really like the way how Korean social structure works, to me it kind of seems it creates social bonds between people that are not necessarily related. The way someone can be your hyung with the implied relationship in terms of respect and responsibility, without sharing the same blood is really amazing to me.
Western culture often seems so random, without (m)any predetermined social structure, leaving you to figure out for yourself where you stand. The notion that with age you carry more responsibility in trade for respect from younger generations, it really appeals to me despite it being considered "old-fashioned" by Western standards.
I'd also like to hear what you think of foreigners in Korea and the way they (fail) to intergrate within the culture? When you grow up understanding the language and culture I suppose it becomes second nature, but I wonder how people with different standards and language mix with what I would consider a somewhat "stubborn" culture?
I'd love to visit Korea someday and I'd love to learn the language, but with me having Aspergers I have serious doubts that I could deal with the social expectations of the country. Like, I can't be spontaneous or very fun in general when I'm around people I don't know, I need time to adjust to people before I can be myself. Which in itself is hard enough in Western society where Aspergers is uniformly accepted as a condition. But I feel like I really don't have to expect anyone to give me some slack in Korea 
Anyways, thanks for your post. I think Korea is great regardless!
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Honestly this culture sounds awesome. Lol.
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Damn wives, must enjoy the single life while it lasts.
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i always fantasized about learning an asian language and moving into such a country, but never saw a big motivation to actually do so.......... things have changed now . awesome post.
i so wanna live in korea now! ...
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On March 23 2012 03:25 Saechiis wrote:From what I read on TL being homo isn't actually considered an option in Korean culture, what's your view on this? I ask because indeed there seems to be a lot more intimate physical conctact between Korean males that would be considered "gay" in Western context, but I'm not sure whether that's because being gay is more accepted or the complete opposite? I must say, I really like the way how Korean social structure works, to me it kind of seems it creates social bonds between people that are not necessarily related. The way someone can be your hyung with the implied relationship in terms of respect and responsibility, without sharing the same blood is really amazing to me. Western culture often seems so random, without (m)any predetermined social structure, leaving you to figure out for yourself where you stand. The notion that with age you carry more responsibility in trade for respect from younger generations, it really appeals to me despite it being considered "old-fashioned" by Western standards. I'd also like to hear what you think of foreigners in Korea and the way they (fail) to intergrate within the culture? When you grow up understanding the language and culture I suppose it becomes second nature, but I wonder how people with different standards and language mix with what I would consider a somewhat "stubborn" culture? I'd love to visit Korea someday and I'd love to learn the language, but with me having Aspergers I have serious doubts that I could deal with the social expectations of the country. Like, I can't be spontaneous or very fun in general when I'm around people I don't know, I need time to adjust to people before I can be myself. Which in itself is hard enough in Western society where Aspergers is uniformly accepted as a condition. But I feel like I really don't have to expect anyone to give me some slack in Korea Anyways, thanks for your post. I think Korea is great regardless!
The level of male friendship and affection that would be considered gay in Western culture is normal in Korea. However, being openly gay and sleeping with other men (as in have sex) would be a different story. Korea is opening up but still majority of the people are against, or do not bode well with it. A lot of the younger generation (specifically girls) tend to be like 'as long as it doesn't affect me, I respect their choice', but many of the guys are still quiet conservative.
Funny how it is completely opposite right? In North America, actual gay people would be more accepted, while showing affection of friendship and love to fellow 'guy' friends would be considered gay. For instance, all the jocks in my school thought the football players spanking other guys for job well done was pretty gay, but Koreans spank each other all the time.
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On March 23 2012 02:38 Chill wrote:
i dont get why people have such strong opinions for / against korea. just go there. its a fun place with normal people. 99% of the stuff you read in threads won't ever affect you while youre there. the end.
Edit: I mean I get why you wrote this. And it's interesting to read the social dynamics of a place - very interesting. But people are posting "I won't go there because of this" and "I'm disheartened about studying Korean now." Why? You can't speak the language, dynamics like these will never, ever affect you. Just go there and enjoy a beer and take in the sights. People are friendly. The end.
Thanks for posting this I've felt the same way. People on this forum tend to make extreme generalisations about far eastern cultures, which is often encouraged by those who have some form of connection to these countries. Having spent extensive amounts of Japan, and met many Koreans during these travels, I feel comfortable saying that by and large they're extraordinarily normal people. They like eating, drinking, watching TV etc and their cultural values are pretty similar to everyone else's. I mean just in this blog, many of the aspects of Korean culture you bring up are the same as British culture - we have no problems taking showers together after sports, we bloody love a good drink, we love our own food (nothing like a good pie) and our friendships are genuine. I just don't really understand all this hysteria.
Edit: Obviously Korea has a great and vibrant culture that should be respected and enjoyed, but as Chill said, just go there and enjoy a beer and take in the sights
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The extreme bond of friendship between Koreans is pretty interesting to me.
I was brought up with Vietnamese cultural values and not much just regular old American although I brought it upon myself as I grew. I typically see that bond between family members and close family acquaintances, but never with just friends. It might just my father's way of bringing up but he would always remnd me to never allow my friends to get too close and that close bonds could only be shared with my girlfriend or my family.
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On March 23 2012 03:09 rotinegg wrote:yea don't let anything I said affect you if you're a foreigner, information in this thread will be much more relevant to you! cheers
Cheers for sure, i gotta learn hangul now and then take a trip to korea ^^
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All these blogs are accomplishing is making me more jealous for having never been to Korea.
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On March 23 2012 05:34 surfinbird1 wrote:
All these blogs are accomplishing is making me more jealous for having never been to Korea.
Exactly how I feel
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100% agree with the blog post
WELL WRITTEN :D
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so being asked to go to a sauna isn't a bad thing in Korea? well I think i may or may not have offended the Koreans here T_T
Cause when the prime members kept asking me to go, I flatly refused. Auctally I refused several times on different occasions.
I don't understand that part of Korean culture where people can be naked aorund each other. I had to finally get someone who knew english to explain to them that in western culture it is not common for people to get naked aorund each other. They didn't really seem to understand it really well. I'll do the chopsticks, I'll do the other different parts of Korean culture, but Korean sauna, thats not something I'll likely adapt to. or am I taking the wrong approach on this?
I guess the biggest thing for me is because I am a big guy, I don't want people looking at me naked, hell, I don't even want to look at myself naked, why would I punish other people of having to.
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It sounds like I'd be incredibly uncomfortable in korea. In addition to not being very trendy, I also like to keep to myself for the most part. That crazy group mentality would drive me to utter seclusion. Especially the drinking part, I would never drink if I wasn't in the correct frame of mind, DEFINITELY not drink as therapy for life problems.
For those so inclined, though, I bet its a lot of fun.
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On March 23 2012 06:43 masterbreti wrote:
so being asked to go to a sauna isn't a bad thing in Korea? well I think i may or may not have offended the Koreans here T_T
Cause when the prime members kept asking me to go, I flatly refused. Auctally I refused several times on different occasions.
I don't understand that part of Korean culture where people can be naked aorund each other. I had to finally get someone who knew english to explain to them that in western culture it is not common for people to get naked aorund each other. They didn't really seem to understand it really well. I'll do the chopsticks, I'll do the other different parts of Korean culture, but Korean sauna, thats not something I'll likely adapt to. or am I taking the wrong approach on this?
I guess the biggest thing for me is because I am a big guy, I don't want people looking at me naked, hell, I don't even want to look at myself naked, why would I punish other people of having to.
Well here in Estonia men go to the sauna together, and its not considered weird :O.
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Calgary25969 Posts
On March 23 2012 06:43 masterbreti wrote:
so being asked to go to a sauna isn't a bad thing in Korea? well I think i may or may not have offended the Koreans here T_T
Cause when the prime members kept asking me to go, I flatly refused. Auctally I refused several times on different occasions.
I don't understand that part of Korean culture where people can be naked aorund each other. I had to finally get someone who knew english to explain to them that in western culture it is not common for people to get naked aorund each other. They didn't really seem to understand it really well. I'll do the chopsticks, I'll do the other different parts of Korean culture, but Korean sauna, thats not something I'll likely adapt to. or am I taking the wrong approach on this?
I guess the biggest thing for me is because I am a big guy, I don't want people looking at me naked, hell, I don't even want to look at myself naked, why would I punish other people of having to.
I went to a spa in Busan. They give you this tshirt and shorts. So I changed into them and then went out into the spa area. Then I noticed everyone was naked and immediately went back into the change room and took everything off hahaha. I did notice that everyone would leave any pool I went into, but just laughed about it and enjoyed my time there. It was fun.
You should have gone
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Man, you've really described an awesome, awesome place to live. Grats to you and your countrymen ^__^
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On March 23 2012 07:23 Chill wrote:Show nested quote +On March 23 2012 06:43 masterbreti wrote:
so being asked to go to a sauna isn't a bad thing in Korea? well I think i may or may not have offended the Koreans here T_T
Cause when the prime members kept asking me to go, I flatly refused. Auctally I refused several times on different occasions.
I don't understand that part of Korean culture where people can be naked aorund each other. I had to finally get someone who knew english to explain to them that in western culture it is not common for people to get naked aorund each other. They didn't really seem to understand it really well. I'll do the chopsticks, I'll do the other different parts of Korean culture, but Korean sauna, thats not something I'll likely adapt to. or am I taking the wrong approach on this?
I guess the biggest thing for me is because I am a big guy, I don't want people looking at me naked, hell, I don't even want to look at myself naked, why would I punish other people of having to. I went to a spa in Busan. They give you this tshirt and shorts. So I changed into them and then went out into the spa area. Then I noticed everyone was naked and immediately went back into the change room and took everything off hahaha. I did notice that everyone would leave any pool I went into, but just laughed about it and enjoyed my time there. It was fun. You should have gone
Awww poor Chill the loner. I've only been to baths in rural China, but damn they are good. I presume they are probably even better in most parts of Korea since it won't be some poor rural place.
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Damn you! Why do you make me want to go to Korea so much!
Edit: Chill I would sit next to you! If only to make my own package look all the more manly! j/k
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On March 23 2012 02:38 Chill wrote:
i dont get why people have such strong opinions for / against korea. just go there. its a fun place with normal people. 99% of the stuff you read in threads won't ever affect you while youre there. the end.
Edit: I mean I get why you wrote this. And it's interesting to read the social dynamics of a place - very interesting. But people are posting "I won't go there because of this" and "I'm disheartened about studying Korean now." Why? You can't speak the language, dynamics like these will never, ever affect you. Just go there and enjoy a beer and take in the sights. People are friendly. The end.
This 100%.
I pretty much don't read threads about Korean stuff anymore, it's always about Korean people being this way or that way... yet in my day-to-life here, all of this stuff is hardly noticeable. There are all kinds of Koreans, some are friendly, some aren't, some are prejudiced, some aren't, some (most?) are nice people, some aren't. Pretty much like anywhere else on Earth. Come check it out and you're pretty much guaranteed to have a great time.
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Informative and really insightful post thanks for writing it! Great read
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nice blog, I always liked your blogs but in the end all your blogs about your career are kind of a topic I generally dont care about (economy, big firms etc. etc.)
So I like it when you write blogs that are more personal / about korea, the one about how you met your wife was one of my favourites on TL
one critique though
In Korea we have very few mental health institutions or such practices because we use these drinking sessions to do group friend counseling together. It is at these times where we yell at our friends to 'man the fuck up!' or 'you're such an idiot, obviously she is cheating on you!' and where we cry with each other or laugh to break the stress from work, or just drink until we can't think anymore about certain problems that just need time to heal. Also, by drinking to the point of no return together, we all share in the joys and pains of each other and then support one another to make it safely to the bus or taxi and get home.
I dont know if youre serious here or if youre joking but this seems pretty stupid ^^
A lack of mental health institutions is just that .. a lack of mental health institutions, mental illness doesnt get cured by drinking alcohol and talking your problems out, theyre cured by proper treatment. Korea being behind on sth like this is a problem, maybe if it wasnt my uncle wouldnt be dead now.
And Korea being #2 in the world in suicide rate shows that there really is a problem
Now my post sounds way more negative than I wanted it to though which is a shame cause I havent commented on your blogs in a while. sorry T_T
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On March 23 2012 11:26 7mk wrote:nice blog, I always liked your blogs but in the end all your blogs about your career are kind of a topic I generally dont care about (economy, big firms etc. etc.) So I like it when you write blogs that are more personal / about korea, the one about how you met your wife was one of my favourites on TL one critique though Show nested quote +In Korea we have very few mental health institutions or such practices because we use these drinking sessions to do group friend counseling together. It is at these times where we yell at our friends to 'man the fuck up!' or 'you're such an idiot, obviously she is cheating on you!' and where we cry with each other or laugh to break the stress from work, or just drink until we can't think anymore about certain problems that just need time to heal. Also, by drinking to the point of no return together, we all share in the joys and pains of each other and then support one another to make it safely to the bus or taxi and get home. I dont know if youre serious here or if youre joking but this seems pretty stupid ^^ A lack of mental health institutions is just that .. a lack of mental health institutions, mental illness doesnt get cured by drinking alcohol and talking your problems out, theyre cured by proper treatment. Korea being behind on sth like this is a problem, maybe if it wasnt my uncle wouldnt be dead now. And Korea being #2 in the world in suicide rate shows that there really is a problem Now my post sounds way more negative than I wanted it to though which is a shame cause I havent commented on your blogs in a while. sorry T_T
Don't take it so seriously. I'm studying medicine and public health in a graduate school here and there are some. It's a big problem, but I'm pretty sure what he says is supposed to be taken more lightly than that.
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I am absolutely enthralled with intrigue!
After initially reading rotinegg's blog, though it certainly scared the American individualist inside, I decided to leave with a rather positive outlook. I believe the point overlooked by some of the westerners that expressed a highly negative reaction is the fast pace at which the SK culture has changed thus far. Does anyone really believe that some of these more detrimental behaviors and positions will stay in their current form? They are new, after all, as explained by rotinegg.
At any rate, SK also seems to be somewhat liberal in comparison to some of the other developed Asian countires. (See: Singapore, China) The whole intense friendship and drinking culture are probably more likely to stay with the country's foundation. People tend to want to survive and enrich their lives and communities in the long-run. This is just an observation. I look forward to reading more blogs like these. Thank you, OP.
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On March 23 2012 07:23 Chill wrote:
I did notice that everyone would leave any pool I went into, but just laughed about it and enjoyed my time there. It was fun.
LOL, you peed in the pool, didn't ya?
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ahh thank you for writting this, i read the other blog about korea and i was like T.T;; then i was like ahh i guess it's alright. now im back to being ^__^
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On March 23 2012 07:23 Chill wrote:Show nested quote +On March 23 2012 06:43 masterbreti wrote:
so being asked to go to a sauna isn't a bad thing in Korea? well I think i may or may not have offended the Koreans here T_T
Cause when the prime members kept asking me to go, I flatly refused. Auctally I refused several times on different occasions.
I don't understand that part of Korean culture where people can be naked aorund each other. I had to finally get someone who knew english to explain to them that in western culture it is not common for people to get naked aorund each other. They didn't really seem to understand it really well. I'll do the chopsticks, I'll do the other different parts of Korean culture, but Korean sauna, thats not something I'll likely adapt to. or am I taking the wrong approach on this?
I guess the biggest thing for me is because I am a big guy, I don't want people looking at me naked, hell, I don't even want to look at myself naked, why would I punish other people of having to. I went to a spa in Busan. They give you this tshirt and shorts. So I changed into them and then went out into the spa area. Then I noticed everyone was naked and immediately went back into the change room and took everything off hahaha. I did notice that everyone would leave any pool I went into, but just laughed about it and enjoyed my time there. It was fun. You should have gone
So... how did it feel to bath with naked man?
Oh btw, japan has those naked baths as well (i wonder who copied who). Except in japan, you can go to one that is unisex (ie man and woman bath naked together).
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On March 23 2012 07:23 Chill wrote:Show nested quote +On March 23 2012 06:43 masterbreti wrote:
so being asked to go to a sauna isn't a bad thing in Korea? well I think i may or may not have offended the Koreans here T_T
Cause when the prime members kept asking me to go, I flatly refused. Auctally I refused several times on different occasions.
I don't understand that part of Korean culture where people can be naked aorund each other. I had to finally get someone who knew english to explain to them that in western culture it is not common for people to get naked aorund each other. They didn't really seem to understand it really well. I'll do the chopsticks, I'll do the other different parts of Korean culture, but Korean sauna, thats not something I'll likely adapt to. or am I taking the wrong approach on this?
I guess the biggest thing for me is because I am a big guy, I don't want people looking at me naked, hell, I don't even want to look at myself naked, why would I punish other people of having to. I went to a spa in Busan. They give you this tshirt and shorts. So I changed into them and then went out into the spa area. Then I noticed everyone was naked and immediately went back into the change room and took everything off hahaha. I did notice that everyone would leave any pool I went into, but just laughed about it and enjoyed my time there. It was fun. You should have gone
well I am a big guy, and being surronded by skinny korean guys only makes me stick out more like a sore thumb than usual. a big naked white guy is not something I think Koreans would want in their sauna lol.
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On March 23 2012 13:53 masterbreti wrote:Show nested quote +On March 23 2012 07:23 Chill wrote:On March 23 2012 06:43 masterbreti wrote:
so being asked to go to a sauna isn't a bad thing in Korea? well I think i may or may not have offended the Koreans here T_T
Cause when the prime members kept asking me to go, I flatly refused. Auctally I refused several times on different occasions.
I don't understand that part of Korean culture where people can be naked aorund each other. I had to finally get someone who knew english to explain to them that in western culture it is not common for people to get naked aorund each other. They didn't really seem to understand it really well. I'll do the chopsticks, I'll do the other different parts of Korean culture, but Korean sauna, thats not something I'll likely adapt to. or am I taking the wrong approach on this?
I guess the biggest thing for me is because I am a big guy, I don't want people looking at me naked, hell, I don't even want to look at myself naked, why would I punish other people of having to. I went to a spa in Busan. They give you this tshirt and shorts. So I changed into them and then went out into the spa area. Then I noticed everyone was naked and immediately went back into the change room and took everything off hahaha. I did notice that everyone would leave any pool I went into, but just laughed about it and enjoyed my time there. It was fun. You should have gone well I am a big guy, and being surronded by skinny korean guys only makes me stick out more like a sore thumb than usual. a big naked white guy is not something I think Koreans would want in their sauna lol.
No one goes to the sauna to judge anyone on their bodies. Its just to relax and be comfortable. It will definitely be uncomfortable at first for you since you never done it but just try it and relax, forgetting about everything. People aren't going to say anything or stare so just have some fun! Unless there is a moral/religious reason not to, I don't see why you shouldn't try and then after that you can decide whether you want to continue or not. For me, I spent most of my childhood in America so I did find it uncomfortable at first, but now I consider it really the best way to blow some steam. Nothing is more relaxing to me than just lying down in warm herbal water, not thinking about anything.
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Nice blog! And yeah that bath house stuff is hardcore but I grow in love with it after going there a few times with Korean friends.
It is weird at first when you are naked and every other guys as well, but with a group of friends it can be super relax, and sleeping in sauna is awesome. We even play some card game after sauna while eating boiled eggs.
Its not true that Korean won't one a white guy in their sauna. Just accept it, if you are white and you are in any part of Asia people will at least give you a look/gawk. I saw some white guys in Korean sauna and they seems very happy there.
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Calgary25969 Posts
On March 23 2012 13:53 masterbreti wrote:Show nested quote +On March 23 2012 07:23 Chill wrote:On March 23 2012 06:43 masterbreti wrote:
so being asked to go to a sauna isn't a bad thing in Korea? well I think i may or may not have offended the Koreans here T_T
Cause when the prime members kept asking me to go, I flatly refused. Auctally I refused several times on different occasions.
I don't understand that part of Korean culture where people can be naked aorund each other. I had to finally get someone who knew english to explain to them that in western culture it is not common for people to get naked aorund each other. They didn't really seem to understand it really well. I'll do the chopsticks, I'll do the other different parts of Korean culture, but Korean sauna, thats not something I'll likely adapt to. or am I taking the wrong approach on this?
I guess the biggest thing for me is because I am a big guy, I don't want people looking at me naked, hell, I don't even want to look at myself naked, why would I punish other people of having to. I went to a spa in Busan. They give you this tshirt and shorts. So I changed into them and then went out into the spa area. Then I noticed everyone was naked and immediately went back into the change room and took everything off hahaha. I did notice that everyone would leave any pool I went into, but just laughed about it and enjoyed my time there. It was fun. You should have gone well I am a big guy, and being surronded by skinny korean guys only makes me stick out more like a sore thumb than usual. a big naked white guy is not something I think Koreans would want in their sauna lol.
its seriously no big deal. dont let this hold you back. if you dont give a shit, no one else will give a shit <--- welcome to real life.
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On March 23 2012 07:23 Chill wrote:Show nested quote +On March 23 2012 06:43 masterbreti wrote:
so being asked to go to a sauna isn't a bad thing in Korea? well I think i may or may not have offended the Koreans here T_T
Cause when the prime members kept asking me to go, I flatly refused. Auctally I refused several times on different occasions.
I don't understand that part of Korean culture where people can be naked aorund each other. I had to finally get someone who knew english to explain to them that in western culture it is not common for people to get naked aorund each other. They didn't really seem to understand it really well. I'll do the chopsticks, I'll do the other different parts of Korean culture, but Korean sauna, thats not something I'll likely adapt to. or am I taking the wrong approach on this?
I guess the biggest thing for me is because I am a big guy, I don't want people looking at me naked, hell, I don't even want to look at myself naked, why would I punish other people of having to. I went to a spa in Busan. They give you this tshirt and shorts. So I changed into them and then went out into the spa area. Then I noticed everyone was naked and immediately went back into the change room and took everything off hahaha. I did notice that everyone would leave any pool I went into, but just laughed about it and enjoyed my time there. It was fun. You should have gone
@Chill
Why did everyone leave the pool you were in? Everyone in the thread keeps stating that it is a place of non-judgment. I am curious as to why you were treated as a pariah. Perhaps, you were imagining? Inquiring minds want to know!
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On March 23 2012 14:13 Chill wrote:Show nested quote +On March 23 2012 13:53 masterbreti wrote:On March 23 2012 07:23 Chill wrote:On March 23 2012 06:43 masterbreti wrote:
so being asked to go to a sauna isn't a bad thing in Korea? well I think i may or may not have offended the Koreans here T_T
Cause when the prime members kept asking me to go, I flatly refused. Auctally I refused several times on different occasions.
I don't understand that part of Korean culture where people can be naked aorund each other. I had to finally get someone who knew english to explain to them that in western culture it is not common for people to get naked aorund each other. They didn't really seem to understand it really well. I'll do the chopsticks, I'll do the other different parts of Korean culture, but Korean sauna, thats not something I'll likely adapt to. or am I taking the wrong approach on this?
I guess the biggest thing for me is because I am a big guy, I don't want people looking at me naked, hell, I don't even want to look at myself naked, why would I punish other people of having to. I went to a spa in Busan. They give you this tshirt and shorts. So I changed into them and then went out into the spa area. Then I noticed everyone was naked and immediately went back into the change room and took everything off hahaha. I did notice that everyone would leave any pool I went into, but just laughed about it and enjoyed my time there. It was fun. You should have gone well I am a big guy, and being surronded by skinny korean guys only makes me stick out more like a sore thumb than usual. a big naked white guy is not something I think Koreans would want in their sauna lol. its seriously no big deal. dont let this hold you back. if you dont give a shit, no one else will give a shit <--- welcome to real life.
hmm, well I'll have to think about it, I'll only go if they ask me again, which is unlikely. I'm very self self conscious and really don't want to, but for korean culture I may just say "fuck it" and go.
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Calgary25969 Posts
On March 23 2012 14:46 PlainShane wrote:Show nested quote +On March 23 2012 07:23 Chill wrote:On March 23 2012 06:43 masterbreti wrote:
so being asked to go to a sauna isn't a bad thing in Korea? well I think i may or may not have offended the Koreans here T_T
Cause when the prime members kept asking me to go, I flatly refused. Auctally I refused several times on different occasions.
I don't understand that part of Korean culture where people can be naked aorund each other. I had to finally get someone who knew english to explain to them that in western culture it is not common for people to get naked aorund each other. They didn't really seem to understand it really well. I'll do the chopsticks, I'll do the other different parts of Korean culture, but Korean sauna, thats not something I'll likely adapt to. or am I taking the wrong approach on this?
I guess the biggest thing for me is because I am a big guy, I don't want people looking at me naked, hell, I don't even want to look at myself naked, why would I punish other people of having to. I went to a spa in Busan. They give you this tshirt and shorts. So I changed into them and then went out into the spa area. Then I noticed everyone was naked and immediately went back into the change room and took everything off hahaha. I did notice that everyone would leave any pool I went into, but just laughed about it and enjoyed my time there. It was fun. You should have gone @Chill Why did everyone leave the pool you were in? Everyone in the thread keeps stating that it is a place of non-judgment. I am curious as to why you were treated as a pariah. Perhaps, you were imagining? Inquiring minds want to know!
2 things:
1. Koreans are scared of foreigners. There aren't a lot in everyday Korean life so it's just like "wtf is this?"
2. Koreans are scared to speak English. They have this irrational fear of "MAYBE HE'LL SPEAK ENGLISH TO ME!!??"
I didn't care. There were like 15 different hot tubs it didn't make a difference to me.
Edit: I wasn't imagining it. Because there were a bunch of different pools at different temperatures and different salts, I wanted to try them all.
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Calgary25969 Posts
On March 23 2012 15:02 masterbreti wrote:Show nested quote +On March 23 2012 14:13 Chill wrote:On March 23 2012 13:53 masterbreti wrote:On March 23 2012 07:23 Chill wrote:On March 23 2012 06:43 masterbreti wrote:
so being asked to go to a sauna isn't a bad thing in Korea? well I think i may or may not have offended the Koreans here T_T
Cause when the prime members kept asking me to go, I flatly refused. Auctally I refused several times on different occasions.
I don't understand that part of Korean culture where people can be naked aorund each other. I had to finally get someone who knew english to explain to them that in western culture it is not common for people to get naked aorund each other. They didn't really seem to understand it really well. I'll do the chopsticks, I'll do the other different parts of Korean culture, but Korean sauna, thats not something I'll likely adapt to. or am I taking the wrong approach on this?
I guess the biggest thing for me is because I am a big guy, I don't want people looking at me naked, hell, I don't even want to look at myself naked, why would I punish other people of having to. I went to a spa in Busan. They give you this tshirt and shorts. So I changed into them and then went out into the spa area. Then I noticed everyone was naked and immediately went back into the change room and took everything off hahaha. I did notice that everyone would leave any pool I went into, but just laughed about it and enjoyed my time there. It was fun. You should have gone well I am a big guy, and being surronded by skinny korean guys only makes me stick out more like a sore thumb than usual. a big naked white guy is not something I think Koreans would want in their sauna lol. its seriously no big deal. dont let this hold you back. if you dont give a shit, no one else will give a shit <--- welcome to real life. hmm, well I'll have to think about it, I'll only go if they ask me again, which is unlikely. I'm very self self conscious and really don't want to, but for korean culture I may just say "fuck it" and go.
Don't be a baby.
Anyways I'll be there in a month :D
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I've never experienced Koreans purposely moving away from pools I've entered in saunas, so I imagine Chill's experience was an isolated one. On the contrary, I've even had numerous conversations in saunas with total strangers. Your mileage may vary.
@masterbreti Seriously, just do it. You won't stand out any more in a sauna as a bigger white guy as you do in the rest of Korea as a bigger white guy. The mindset is the same inside and outside a sauna. Needless to say, it's also extremely relaxing.
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On March 23 2012 15:06 TheKwas wrote:
I've never experienced Koreans purposely moving away from pools I've entered in saunas, so I imagine Chill's experience was an isolated one. On the contrary, I've even had numerous conversations in saunas with total strangers in saunas. Your mileage may vary.
@masterbreti Seriously, just do it. You won't stand out any more in a sauna as a bigger white guy as you do in the rest of Korea as a bigger white guy. The mindset is the same inside and outside a sauna. Needless to say, it's also extremely relaxing.
The difference is I'm not walking around Korea naked. but like I said, if they ask me again (which I don't think they will) then I'll say yes. but I'm not going to ask to go, cause that would be super awkward for me zzzzz
On March 23 2012 15:05 Chill wrote:Show nested quote +On March 23 2012 15:02 masterbreti wrote:On March 23 2012 14:13 Chill wrote:On March 23 2012 13:53 masterbreti wrote:On March 23 2012 07:23 Chill wrote:On March 23 2012 06:43 masterbreti wrote:
so being asked to go to a sauna isn't a bad thing in Korea? well I think i may or may not have offended the Koreans here T_T
Cause when the prime members kept asking me to go, I flatly refused. Auctally I refused several times on different occasions.
I don't understand that part of Korean culture where people can be naked aorund each other. I had to finally get someone who knew english to explain to them that in western culture it is not common for people to get naked aorund each other. They didn't really seem to understand it really well. I'll do the chopsticks, I'll do the other different parts of Korean culture, but Korean sauna, thats not something I'll likely adapt to. or am I taking the wrong approach on this?
I guess the biggest thing for me is because I am a big guy, I don't want people looking at me naked, hell, I don't even want to look at myself naked, why would I punish other people of having to. I went to a spa in Busan. They give you this tshirt and shorts. So I changed into them and then went out into the spa area. Then I noticed everyone was naked and immediately went back into the change room and took everything off hahaha. I did notice that everyone would leave any pool I went into, but just laughed about it and enjoyed my time there. It was fun. You should have gone well I am a big guy, and being surronded by skinny korean guys only makes me stick out more like a sore thumb than usual. a big naked white guy is not something I think Koreans would want in their sauna lol. its seriously no big deal. dont let this hold you back. if you dont give a shit, no one else will give a shit <--- welcome to real life. hmm, well I'll have to think about it, I'll only go if they ask me again, which is unlikely. I'm very self self conscious and really don't want to, but for korean culture I may just say "fuck it" and go. Don't be a baby. Anyways I'll be there in a month :D
haha I'll buy you a beer while you are here then. unless its hardcore grind time around here, which is like 4 out of every 5 weeks.
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Introduce me to the Prime guys and I'll invite everyone out to a sauna! ^________________^
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Korea (South)17174 Posts
On March 23 2012 15:06 TheKwas wrote:
@masterbreti Seriously, just do it. You won't stand out any more in a sauna as a bigger white guy as you do in the rest of Korea as a bigger white guy.
whelp then be prepared to be stared at by everyone!
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Zurich15317 Posts
On March 23 2012 06:43 masterbreti wrote:
so being asked to go to a sauna isn't a bad thing in Korea? well I think i may or may not have offended the Koreans here T_T
Cause when the prime members kept asking me to go, I flatly refused. Auctally I refused several times on different occasions.
I don't understand that part of Korean culture where people can be naked aorund each other. I had to finally get someone who knew english to explain to them that in western culture it is not common for people to get naked aorund each other. They didn't really seem to understand it really well. I'll do the chopsticks, I'll do the other different parts of Korean culture, but Korean sauna, thats not something I'll likely adapt to. or am I taking the wrong approach on this?
I guess the biggest thing for me is because I am a big guy, I don't want people looking at me naked, hell, I don't even want to look at myself naked, why would I punish other people of having to.
Haha you would love Germany http://www.teamliquid.net/blogs/viewblog.php?id=173858
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On March 23 2012 17:59 Rekrul wrote:Show nested quote +On March 23 2012 15:06 TheKwas wrote:
@masterbreti Seriously, just do it. You won't stand out any more in a sauna as a bigger white guy as you do in the rest of Korea as a bigger white guy. whelp then be prepared to be stared at by everyone!
See!!! rekrul knows what I would expect. Though to be honest.I really have never been stared at in Korea so far, more just a smile if anything, they see me and I greet them with a big smile, and they smile back.
but Naked, yeah I think that going to be a different story. I have to admit, I think even the prime guys would stare at me. which would make me feel totally awkward.
On March 23 2012 18:47 zatic wrote:Show nested quote +On March 23 2012 06:43 masterbreti wrote:
so being asked to go to a sauna isn't a bad thing in Korea? well I think i may or may not have offended the Koreans here T_T
Cause when the prime members kept asking me to go, I flatly refused. Auctally I refused several times on different occasions.
I don't understand that part of Korean culture where people can be naked aorund each other. I had to finally get someone who knew english to explain to them that in western culture it is not common for people to get naked aorund each other. They didn't really seem to understand it really well. I'll do the chopsticks, I'll do the other different parts of Korean culture, but Korean sauna, thats not something I'll likely adapt to. or am I taking the wrong approach on this?
I guess the biggest thing for me is because I am a big guy, I don't want people looking at me naked, hell, I don't even want to look at myself naked, why would I punish other people of having to. Haha you would love Germany http://www.teamliquid.net/blogs/viewblog.php?id=173858
ironically I'm half german on my mothers side. But I guess I didn't get that part of the german gene haha.
but just to add a funny story. The first time I was asked to go to a sauna, They said bathhouse. Now where I am from (near toronto) a bathhouse isn't just just for bathing, if you know what I mean. So I looked at them, and had the wtf expression on my face. I laughed awkwardly and said that I'm not like that. They looked at me even werider, thank god Gerrard called his sister to explain what a bathhouse was. I don't think she knew what bathhouses are in Canada (or at least in toronto).
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I do not see your irrational fear of the bath.
If anyone stares, it is because you are a foreigner, not because you are fat.
If else, how would every other fat individual participate in public baths? Particularly the older population? Helpful hint, no one cares and no one really looks closely because of whatever your physical trait happens to be unless you are protruding a third arm out of your belly.
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ㅈㅈㅂs are fucking amazing. except you have to be sure not to stay in the sauna too long if you're fucked up because you'll get really dehydrated.
it's a weird experience at first, but when you go, it's nice to just talk with your close friends and kind of sober up a little. and they have patbingsoo. and ramen. also the eggs.
koreans are really touchy, but i'm really touchy with my close friends so it didn't bother me too much.
slapping guy friends asses isn't gay. cmon.
bromance is life.
but the thing about koreans is friendships are soooo tight, i used to think it was weird to just drink with guys, but the friends i made in korea, i became so close with that we would just eat chicken and drink in our rooms, it's one of the more special things about korea i think.
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I really don't think you guys should mind about the sauna. First of all, if you are worried that you are too big (as in body size and you know what), there are bound to be the big thugs with dragon and tiger tattoos all over their body bigger than you are. These meatbags are all over the place and often seen in saunas.
Also, about being naked... even in Canada, you go to the gym, and everyone walks around naked in the locker room after shower... so I don't get what the issue is. These are white and black and asian men walking around in YMCA or Good Life naked. No one gives a crap about your Johnson
p.s. anyone know how to create a blog?
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United States1719 Posts
On March 23 2012 22:21 mizU wrote:
ㅈㅈㅂs are fucking amazing. except you have to be sure not to stay in the sauna too long if you're fucked up because you'll get really dehydrated.
Immediately thought 지지배 when I saw ㅈㅈㅂ. 지지배 > 찜질방 any day anyway
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Korea (South)1897 Posts
On March 24 2012 00:34 rotinegg wrote:Show nested quote +On March 23 2012 22:21 mizU wrote:
ㅈㅈㅂs are fucking amazing. except you have to be sure not to stay in the sauna too long if you're fucked up because you'll get really dehydrated.
Immediately thought 지지배 when I saw ㅈㅈㅂ. 지지배 > 찜질방 any day anyway
lol! I don't see how you could have thought of that first, you must hang out with too many girls lol.
But just to get to many of the points.
1. Of course it's just better to just come to Korea, but anyway, to just leave it at that, you can say that about any country, 'just come and see for yourself' lol, and anyway, these are thing that I enjoy keke.
2. I'm so fat right now, my belly is about 70% of my body, so no one really cares and I'd say, going to a public bath house is not Rekul's type of social activity as well as his friends. To this date, I've never gotten Rek to go with me in like 8 years and Giyom has only go with me like 5 times and I'm like the kinda guy who goes at least once a week. And we all lived together on and off over a 5 year period lol. The point is in Korea when it comes to nudity between men. WE DON'T CARE.
Also I don't even know if Rek ever went to a sauna ever lol.
Our bodies isn't for other men, our dicks, and our looks, is for women only. Korean guys, we understand that, who cares how we look in front of other men? As long as my dick functions when it needs to, great! But when I'm with my friends (and I only have close friends that are guys in Korea), that is the last thing on my mind, especially at a sauna or 'gimgil bang' (steam/hot place) where after you wash yourself you can go change into the close they give you and you hang out for a few hours there.
3. Ultimately, we go cause we want to relax and hang out with friends there, and I would say, while it may be akward at first, but when you go a few times and really realize that Korea doesn't care about nudity among the same gender, I'm sure you'll feel more relaxed than you have ever.
4. In terms of taking about homosexuality. I never comes up as a topic of discussion simply because we don't think it is an issue. There are gays, but they find their own social circles and like many other countries, you can find them very visible as hair stylists, fashion industry, etc, but generally, it's not that we ignore that homosexuality exists, but for Koreans we wouldn't think that it is very common and that in Korea, I think it would hard to hide being homosexual considering how close we are physically. Our physical closeness is not sexual at all, it is child like and it would be extremely obvious to another guy if suddenly they guy started to get close in a sexual way, Koreans are very attuned to being 'comfortable' with one another, if there is even a hint of non-comfort, it is very obvious. And I'd think it is the same for those Koreans who are homosexual, they get that as well and move to different social circles. But one thing is clear, the circles don't mix, but neither do we think badly of it or have any judgement at all.
^^
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Korea (South)1897 Posts
ohhh Chill you will be here in a month! lol.
We will have to go eating, drinking, sauna. haha.
-maybe organize a TL meet up when you are here keke.
Also, Korean't aren't scared of foreigners in a physical way, more like, some less educated Koreans may think that all foreigners have certain micro-organisms with them that could be passed along through the water. lol. You must have looked like one of those types of foreigners lol.
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On March 23 2012 22:21 mizU wrote:
but the thing about koreans is friendships are soooo tight, i used to think it was weird to just drink with guys, but the friends i made in korea, i became so close with that we would just eat chicken and drink in our rooms, it's one of the more special things about korea i think.
People do that here in the US all the time, esp. in college ... and with both guys and girls. From the OP, the latter case sounds like it'd be weird in Korea if you weren't dating, which is a shame IMO. Not everything with the opposite sex has to be romantic/sexual/flirtatious. o_O
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One thing i'm curious about is the "flakey-ness" from said friends.
I'm not Korean but i've known some friends to just randomly flake and they usually give no reason. Or if they cant do something they wont respond with a text or msg. Is this because they don't like disappointing people?
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I was expecting a similar post to come but this exceeded my expectations by far. Very well written and I have to agree with everything from my limited personal experience. In my country it's quite common for friends to just meet every once in a year and that's it. Koreans I've talked to would always contact me in a week again and we'd build a friendship from there.
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i had a korean exchange student in my house. at first i teased him alot about spending a long time in the bathroom, but hes probably one of the most loyal friends i have. also the part about partying is so true and so awesome. koreans rock
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Very interesting blog indeed! The discussion about nudity was interesting in it's own way as well, but I'm one of those people who give a very little fuck about what other people think, so yeah.. just be yourself - that'll automatically filter away people you're never going to be able to hang around with anyways
I'm going to Korea with two friends for a little more than a month this July, and I'm REALLY^17 looking forward to it! I could throw a billion questions about Korea out there, but a certain thing has been nagging my subconsciousness:
None of my friends, or me for that matter, have been in SK before and even though I've done my part of getting to know the country (learning Hangul, basic Korean, some culture etc.) I have a feeling that there's a risk of missing some stuff if you haven't got anyone who can show you around a bit for a few days or something like that.
Anyone got any experiences with this?
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EPT
