Interesting facts about South Korea. Interesting facts about South Korea

1. Korea is a very safe country. A girl may not be afraid to walk alone in a sleeping area at night.

2. Cases of major crime, like murder, are considered unprecedented and are covered in local news for weeks.

3. Most the best time to visit Korea - spring, when the cherries bloom, and autumn, when the leaves on the trees turn yellow. In winter it is very cold and windy, in summer it is incredibly hot, humid and rainy.

4. The territory of the country is very small, so civilization has penetrated into all its corners. It is impossible to get lost in Korea.

5. The most popular sport in Korea is baseball. Everyone plays it, from young to old, almost everyone has a baseball bat. Baseball games, especially big ones, are always sold out.

6. In second place in popularity is golf. It is played by middle-aged men. And when they reach old age, all Koreans go to the mountains.

7. Walking in the mountains is one of the favorite pastimes for Koreans.

8. 90% of Koreans are nearsighted and have to wear glasses or contact lenses. Glasses have been worn since childhood.

9. Absolutely all Koreans use Internet Explorer. They are unaware of other browsers, and moreover, most do not even know what a browser is. Korean sites, respectively, are made only under Explorer, in any other browser, not a single Korean site will work correctly.

10. Many Koreans, in order to open Google, first open naver.com (this is a Korean search engine and not only), drive “Google” in Korean into the search and then click on the link.

11. Koreans are very fond of coffee, and coffee houses are found at every step. After lunch or dinner, a cup of coffee is a must.

12. Free Internet can always be found: in any institutions, cafes and even on buses.

13. The most hardworking people in the world are the people of South Korea - according to Forbes.

14. Domestic product in Korea is very supported, so many imported products such as toothpaste, chewing gum, pads, chips, etc. can not be found.

15. Agriculture is one of the most important sectors of the economy.

16. Dentist services are very expensive, so all Koreans carefully monitor dental hygiene. They brush their teeth after every meal and coffee, often carry a toothbrush with them in their bag, and in some establishments you can find free brushes right in the toilet.

17. Education plays perhaps the most important role in the life of any Korean. Koreans study from early morning until late at night, regardless of the day of the week, and use the holidays for additional courses or self-study.

18. There is no such thing as a vacation in Korea. There are several days, usually at the beginning of August, when many workers take the day off to rest or go abroad.

19. There are two major national holidays: New Year according to the lunar calendar and the autumn festival, when Korea does not work for three days. There is no more time for rest.

20. A teacher at a public educational institution can only be fired by the president himself. This profession is extremely respected and highly paid.

21. Overweight Koreans are very rare.

22. Korean women take great care of their skin and hair and use a huge amount of cosmetics and beauty products. Korean women don't go out without makeup.

23. With all the cleanliness on the streets in Korea, it is very difficult to find a trash can.

24. All Koreans sing well and therefore love karaoke very much. (I doubt it)

25. Everyone has cell phones, even homeless people.

26. Any phone can be borrowed for two years.

27. In Korea, the peak of shopping begins after 7-8 pm and in some areas continues until late at night.

28. When the first night of the new year comes, all South Koreans hide their shoes. They believe that at this time the spirit comes and tries on all the shoes that he comes across. If the spirit chooses a pair of shoes of his own liking, he takes them for himself. It is believed that in this case the owner of the shoes will fail throughout the year.

29. All guys are required to complete military service, unless he is disabled.

30. The cult of food reigns in Korea. Instead of "how are you?" Koreans ask "did you eat well?".

31. Koreans eat a lot and in a variety of ways. Kimchi and other snacks are obligatory to the table. Dinner is rarely limited to just one dish.

32. About any Korean dish, any Korean will tell you that it is incredibly healthy.

33. In Korea, dairy products are chic.

34. Koreans are very generous and sympathetic people. They will definitely want to pay for your lunch and will never refuse to help.

35. In Korea, it is customary to greet watchmen, bus drivers and cleaning ladies, in general, with everyone. You show respect for the elder in age, and it doesn’t matter who he works for.

36. There is no fourth floor in the elevators of multi-storey buildings (the word "sa" - "fourth", also sounds like "death"), so it is usually denoted by the letter "F" or the third is immediately followed by the fifth floor. The basement is marked with the letter "B".

37. Most married Korean women do not work while raising children.

38. All older women look the same: the same short hairstyles, the same clothes, the same hats.

South Korea is one of the most interesting countries in the world. Asia is fascinated by Korean food, music and TV programs. Its influence rivals that of China and Japan. And the Boston Consulting Group even called this country the most innovative in the world. Not bad at all for a state founded only in 1948! "Land of the Morning Calm" is just gaining momentum and is full of curious customs and interesting facts.

Alcohol

booze is important part culture of South Korean society. There are some serious rules here. If the elder pours you a beer, you should hold the glass with both hands. If you are pouring for an older person, hold the bottle in both hands. Only the elderly or those in authority can use one hand. In addition, you should always wait until the elder begins to drink.

Even if you don't drink, you should take the first serving offered. Always leave some alcohol in the glass and never add yourself.

red ink


Every society has its strange superstitions. Koreans hate red ink. It is believed that if you write someone's name with a red pen, the person will be in serious trouble in the near future. He may even die. Some believe that red ink wards off demons and protects the dead, but the opposite works with living people.

Proper handshake

Not so long ago, Bill Gates stirred up the South Korean media at a meeting with President Park Geun-hye. His act was considered inappropriate and even indecent gesture. What did the billionaire do? When Gates extended his right hand to the president for a handshake, he left his left in his trouser pocket. In South Korea, one hand can be used in a handshake with a friend, peer, or someone younger than you. But an older person or authority figure should always shake hands with both hands.

South Korean education


South Korean students are extraordinarily bright and intelligent, and they are the world's second most well-read students. It's all about special private educational institutions. Children attend these academies from early age to study a wide variety of subjects - from math and science to taekwondo, ballet and belly dance. The very best teachers attract huge numbers of students, and some teachers become so popular that they earn several million dollars a year. It should be noted that for the education of children in such academies, Korean parents spend 17 billion dollars a year.

There is also a downside to the medal of education in South Korea. Students who do not pass the main CSAT test too well cannot be enrolled in prestigious colleges, only the most unsuccessful schools can be the limit of their dreams. Such a system has led to the fact that in the state there is a very high level student suicides.

Korean-Japanese rivalry


In the past, Japan had a "bad habit" of invading the Korean Peninsula. In 1910, the Japanese conquered Korea and ruled the country very cruelly, forcing Koreans to practice Shinto and speak Japanese. During World War II, the Japanese military forced nearly 200,000 Korean women to work in brothels across China.

According to a 2012 poll of the countries Koreans despise the most, Japan led the way by a huge margin, with a whopping 44.1% of the vote.

Skirt controversy

Despite the fact that South Korea is very conservative, miniskirts and micro-shorts are almost always in fashion here. Such clothes are considered the norm even for business women. But it was not always so. From 1963 to 1979, the dictator Park Chung Hee ruled here, under whose regime it was considered illegal to wear skirts ending 20 cm above the knee (or even higher). The regime was so strict that even the length of women's hair was determined by law.

"Toilet" - theme amusement parks


There are plenty of weird theme parks around the world, but South Korea is home to the most bizarre of them all. It is home to the world's first toilet-themed amusement park, which was opened in 2012 in honor of beloved ex-mayor Sim Jae-duk, nicknamed "Mr. Toilet." He was obsessed with toilets and his goal was to provide humanity with hygienic toilets and teach the world how to maintain them.

Plastic surgery

According to a 2009 survey, one in five women in South Korea had plastic surgery. Here, this is considered an absolutely normal phenomenon, and many schoolgirls at graduation are even presented with plastic surgery as a gift by their parents.

Bullfight


There are no bullfights, matadors and red capes in South Korea. Bullfighting is just bull versus bull. Farmers select animals with large horns, thick necks and stocky torsos. Fighting bulls go through special training programs and sit on special diets consisting of fish, live octopuses and snakes.

Terminator jellyfish

Hordes of jellyfish have invaded the world's oceans, and a team of scientists must develop robots that can fight the deadly creatures. Sounds like a sci-fi movie? But it's not! This is happening off the coast of South Korea and could very soon become a problem for the entire planet. The number of jellyfish around the world is on the rise, and this is causing a range of problems, disrupting commercial fisheries and also forcing tourists to stay away from beaches. In this regard, scientists from the Korean Institute of Advanced Science and Technology teamed up to fight the jelly-like horde. They invented special robots JEROS (Jellyfish Elimination Robotic Swarm) that hunt and destroy any "Jelly" that gets in their way.

Introduce South Korea to your friends, share this post with them!

We present you a new article about interesting facts about South Korea. As always, you will find a sea of ​​useful facts, interesting materials, little-known and unusual data. All of this is below!

  1. South Korea is a small country located on the Korean Peninsula in the center of East Asia.
  2. In history South Korea there is famous myth about the emergence of the Korean nation. It says that thousands of years before our era, the god Hwanung descended to earth, who created a woman with a bear. After that, they got married, and their son Tangun, the future founder of Korea, was born. In 2333 B.C. he founded the country of Joseon (great-grandfather of current Korea). It is interesting to know that the name Joseon translates as "Land of the Morning Calm".
  3. Seoul is the capital of South Korea. The population of the city is about 10.5 million people. According to this indicator, Seoul is on the 9th line in the ranking of the most populated cities in the world. The first place in the ranking is occupied by Shanghai with a population of 18 million people. - interesting fact.
  4. Did you know that the population density of the capital of South Korea is 17,300 people/km2! The first place in the world in this indicator is occupied by the Indian city of Mumbai with a density of 20,700 people / km2! Seoul is only eighth.
  5. In 1910, Korea became a colonial state. The country remained in this status until 1945.
  6. North Korea invaded South Korea in 1950 to create a unified communist state. The UN intervened in the course of the war, as a result of which hostilities were stopped in 1953. Today, there are no official ties between the countries, and the border between them is one of the most dangerous and militarized territories in the world. Technically, both states are at war.
  7. Korean considered to be independent. However, it has many Chinese and Japanese elements. This is due to the fact that both countries provided big influence to Korea throughout history. About 1300 Chinese characters are actively used in modern Korean.
  8. Long before the advent of the religion of Confucianism, in the territories South Korea shamanism was widespread, but it never had an official status.
  9. According to the official estimates of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, the population of South Korea has the highest IQ in the world! Also, Korean scientists are the world's leading experts in the field of mathematics and modern technology - an interesting fact.
  10. This eastern state has the most modern and sophisticated IT infrastructure in the world. Also, Korea can boast of the world's leading brands in the field of information technology. The most famous are Samsung and LG.
  11. The country is in the TOP-5 largest car manufacturers in the world. The most popular brands are Hyundai and Kia.
  12. Interesting facts about South Korea: Yeouido Full Gospel Church is the most visited Christian temple in the world! Every week the church has more than 20 thousand parishioners.
  13. The most visited museum in Seoul is the Trick Eye Museum. You can find out more about it and other attractions in ours.
  14. South Korea is the world's largest shipbuilder!
  15. In Seoul national university the first time a dog was cloned!
  16. The Korean Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) in South Korea has developed the world's second humanoid robot that can move independently on two "legs".
  17. Scientists from South Korea have created "EveR-1" - the second female android in the world! - interesting fact.
  18. South Korea is one of the densest populated countries in the world. There are 480 people per 1 km2.
  19. Did you know that a country with a population of 50 million people covers an area of ​​only 99,392 km 2 .
  20. The dominant religion in South Korea is Christianity (29% of the population). The second religion in terms of the number of followers is Buddhism (23%). More than 46% of the population are agnostics and atheists.
  21. Did you know that GDP per capita in 1963 was only $100, but now it has reached $29,000.
  22. Interesting fact: the extinct volcano Hallasan on Jeju Island is the highest point of the South Korean state. Its height is 1950 m above sea level.
  23. There are more than 20 national parks in the country.
  24. The residence of the President of South Korea is called the Blue House. This is the largest building on the peninsula.
  25. In 1988, the Summer Olympic Games were held in Seoul, where the South Koreans took 4th place. It is interesting to know what is on the Summer Olympic Games 2012 in , team South Korea entered the top five teams. Recall that the first place in these games was taken by the United States of America.
  26. The economy of South Korea is ranked 14th in the world, and the country is also the 6th largest exporter and 10th largest importer in the world - an interesting fact.
  27. The government of the South Korean state has provided ultra-fast Internet access in educational institutions of all levels. Also, the first digital textbooks have been developed here, according to which children and students will study. A full transition to the e-learning system is planned for 2013.
  28. The word "e-sports" and all professional video game competitions first appeared in South Korea! It is worth noting that the game "Starcraft" has received incredible popularity in the country. Championships of all levels were held here, even entire leagues and clans were created. Official statistics say: over 500,000 licensed copies alone have been sold in the country!
  29. Interesting fact: in Korea, it was invented martial arts taekwondo.
  30. It is proved that Europeans first appeared in South Korea in the late 1600s. It was the crew of a Dutch merchant ship.
  31. Hangang is the longest river in the country. It has been the main source of water for thousands of years.
  32. For the wonderful economic indicators and the development of modern technology South Korea, Singapore, Hong Kong and Taiwan are called the "Four Asian Tigers"!

Well, here are all the interesting facts. Stop a little and look

South Korea is a beautiful country with a rich cultural heritage. Today, the centuries-old wisdom of Taoism coexists with innovation. And, despite the love for the Western way of life, its inhabitants have preserved many customs that are incomprehensible to us.

10 facts about South Korea: interesting and downright strange

once a boston consulting group called it one of the most promising in the field of innovation. Agree, not bad for a state that has been on the world stage since 1948. It is curious that with such results the country does not lose its "interesting" traditions.

  1. Alcohol. An interesting fact about South Korea is associated with the use of alcohol - for them it is quite an important part of the culture, helping to get to know each other better. Therefore, at least once a week, the inhabitants of the country must gather with friends to have a glass. Such gatherings even have their own name - hoesik. However, when it comes to liquor, there are rules. For example, if the person pouring the drink is older, then you should hold the glass with both hands.
  2. Red ink. Every society has its own superstitions: if Europeans bypass black cats, then the inhabitants of the Land of Morning Calm hate red ink. They believe that a name written in this color will bring misfortune and even death to its owner. This unusual fact about South Korea is connected with an ancient tradition. Previously, the name of the deceased was written in red on the tombstone, believing that this would scare away demons.

  3. Proper handshake. When Bill Gates met with President Park Geun-hye, the people of the country were shocked by the behavior of the American and his gesture. The fact is that during the handshake, Bill's hand was in his pocket, which is unacceptable. Good manners and respect for the traditions of another country, despite the financial status, has always been held in high esteem. Therefore, if you have a Korean older than you, do it with both hands.

  4. Education. Students and schoolchildren in Korea are very smart. According to statistics, 93% of students graduate from a university, which puts the quality of education in the country in second place in the world. What is it connected with? Through private institutions (hagwons), children have the opportunity to learn many subjects, from math to belly dancing or taekwondo. On average, the country's parents spend up to $17 billion a year on educating their children. But this technique also has its drawbacks. Firstly, only rich families can afford education, while the poor are content with little. Secondly, hagwons classes are held in the afternoon, which means that children go to school twice and come home tired.

  5. Which is better: Japan or Korea? If there are many examples of friendly rivalry (Australia - New Zealand) or warlike rivalry (India - Pakistan) in the world, then these Asian countries are the "golden mean". Even if they don't point at each other nuclear weapon, relations between them are always tense. This fact about South Korea and Japan is due to the fact that in the past the latter had a bad habit of invading the territory of the former. Decades later, the situation has certainly changed, but the Koreans believe that the Japanese still have not officially apologized.

  6. Skirt discussions. It's strange to see a lot of bare legs in a conservative country. But miniskirts are the norm in South Korea. Even a business woman is allowed to wear an outfit that barely covers her ass to a business meeting, and no one will regard this as vulgarity.

  7. Toilet themed amusement park. There are many strange attractions in the world, but this place in South Korea literally outdid them all. A park with an "interesting" theme, located in the city of Suwoni, was opened in honor of the beloved ex-mayor, nicknamed Mr. Toilet. The official was obsessed with sanitation and his main goal was to provide the population with good toilets and teach them how to properly maintain them.

  8. Plastic surgery. Everyone wants to be beautiful, especially South Koreans. According to a survey conducted back in 2009, every fifth woman in the country went under the knife. Basically, the requests are the same: a V-shaped chin, a small nose and big eyes.

  9. Bullfights. No, it's not about the red rag or the bullfighter. In Korea cattle fights Ranchers are constantly on the lookout for good "fighters". More often choose massive, with a thick neck and long horns. The fight ends when one bull leaves the arena. The winner receives a cash prize, and the loser goes to drown his grief in rice wine.

  10. Terminator jellyfish. Perhaps the most interesting fact about South Korea, more like a sci-fi movie scenario. The oceans are teeming with jellyfish, so a group of scientists created a robot specifically to deal with them. Due to the invasion of marine animals, the country lost $ 300 million, and in Sweden the nuclear power plant had to be closed. In this regard, the Koreans have created and are actively using terminator jellyfish that destroy real ones. Now the robot is capable of exterminating up to 900 kg of marine animals, but soon, according to scientists, the figure will reach 2000 kg.

Traditions and customs

The house is a sacred place, so special attention is paid to cleanliness, where dirt and even more mess are completely unacceptable. It is customary to be indoors without shoes (barefoot) or, in extreme cases, in socks. If in summer the rule does not cause discomfort, then in winter additional heating is required. Therefore, in the construction of houses are used modern technologies in the form of underfloor heating.

Another interesting fact and custom of South Korea is associated with the ceremony of commemoration of ancestors - Chere. According to Korean belief, the soul does not leave immediately, but remains with the descendants for another 4 generations. Therefore, the deceased is also considered a member of the family, and on New Year's Day, Thanksgiving Day and the anniversary of death, the rite of Chere is performed. Also, Koreans sincerely believe that if the ancestors bless them, then life will be happy.

The next interesting fact about South Korea has to do with gestures. When you call the other person, raise your hand with your palm down and wave, moving your fingers. Never make this gesture with your palm up and even more so index finger- so in the country only dogs are called.

Facts Proving South Korea Is Beyond Our Understanding

Residents of the country are especially careful about oral hygiene, as dentist services are very expensive. Here it is customary to brush teeth after every meal, and often in handbag you can find a brush. In addition, in the restrooms of some establishments there is always a free disposable toothbrush.

The following interesting fact about South Korea and Koreans is based on statistics. Many residents have myopia, so they wear glasses or lenses from childhood. This fact gives the impression that they are all born with poor eyesight. But it's not. As mentioned earlier, Koreans are very smart and spend most of their time studying, buried in their favorite gadgets. It is worth noting that the disease does not concern everyone. For example, Lim Dong Hyun (two-time Olympic champion) only sees 20% of what he normally sees. But the irony is that a man competes in archery!

Korean cosmetics has long conquered Western and domestic fashionistas, and here everyone uses it, regardless of gender or age. Korean women are very careful appearance hair and skin, so they buy an unthinkable amount of funds. They never go out without makeup. Young Koreans also take care of appearance. It is almost impossible to see a man with a sloppy or disheveled hairstyle on the street.

Contrary to popular belief, few people in South Korea have tasted dog meat. Moreover, a movement to abandon the traditional dish is gaining popularity in the state. The youth, brought up to treat animals as friends, provided wide support. By the way, government policy also discourages the consumption of dog meat.

Now about In any city in the world, cafes, bars and restaurants come across at every step, but the speed of service in Korea is simply amazing. The order is delivered literally within 10 minutes, and some establishments even send delivery men again to pick up dirty dishes. Here, instead of the usual "How are you?" you will be asked "Did you eat well?", and skipping any meal for a Korean is akin to a sin.

Let's talk about sexual touch. If in Europe two men holding hands are considered representatives of the LGBT movement, then in Korea everything is different. In society, a couple of opposite sexes who demonstrate feelings in public are extremely disapproving. But playing with hair or sitting on a friend's lap is quite acceptable for men.

Korea is the cradle of esports. At the beginning of the 2000s, computer Star game Craft has become a real cult. Esports players are real stars. Thousands of fans come to meet them, and stadiums with large screens are allocated for the games. And this, in turn, is another interesting fact about South Korea: computer game- a real sport, for which players, training, spend many sleepless nights.

And a few words about compulsory military service. According to the law, every Korean must complete a 21-month military training course. This iron rule is observed regardless of the social status of the resident. Only the incompetent and those who defend the honor of the country in the international arena can get away. For example, footballers Ki Sun-yong (Swansea) and Park Chi-son (Manchester United) were released from military service.

The beginning of a relationship

If in Russia and in many other countries first love is most often met at school, then in the Land of Morning Calm this is more difficult. An interesting fact about life in South Korea is connected with the fact that for every child, studies always come first. And if hyperactive children manage to start relationships at school, then for the rest there is simply no time for amorous affairs - from 9 to 5 lessons, then electives, tutors, classes ... When to fall in love?

But once you enter university, everything changes. Education is not so diligent, so many students live for their own pleasure: on Fridays they gather with a company and drink soju, join circles and interest clubs. This is the best time, because after graduation, almost all of them will work from morning until late evening for many years.

Therefore, the romantic relationship of young Koreans begins precisely during the period of study at the university.

What then

Continuing the story, here are a few facts about South Korea related to further development:

  1. The first date is already the beginning of a relationship, and after the meeting is over, the guy and the girl "officially" become a couple. In addition, she always comes to the meeting with an older friend in order to look favorably against her background.
  2. After a while, "witnesses" are not needed, and lovers can walk around holding hands, but kissing and hugging in public in Korea is inappropriate.
  3. Another trend of couples is the same style. The phenomenon is called Couple Look - clothing stores make good money on it.
  4. An important date for lovers is the hundredth day from the date of the meeting. Girls expect from guys not flowers and sweets, but designer jewelry, clothes, cosmetics, shoes, a bag. According to the calculations of one of the Korean bloggers, an average gift costs $ 800.
  5. To move on to a closer relationship, the couple must meet for at least a year.

Family matters

It's time to learn the facts about relations in South Korea.

A home warms hearts, and every person must have a family. The opinion of the oldest member of the family is dominant. Not a single South Korean will dare to create a new family without the consent of the older generation and parental blessing. Of course, now the freedom of action is much wider, but neither a young man nor a girl can do without the guidance of his mother and father. And excessive parental control, on the contrary, is welcome.

The main priorities are inextricably linked with the family hearth. Previously, several generations of relatives lived together in traditional small houses. But times are changing, and spacious apartments have come to replace them. The only thing that has remained unchanged is the statutory rules.

When meeting with parents, the names are not called - only "mother" and "dad". This treatment is connected with another interesting fact about South Korea. According to the sign, the meaning of the name, having a great weight, affects the fate, making a person more vulnerable. Therefore, the names of the inhabitants of an Asian country are extremely rare.

Family relations in South Korea have always been distinguished by mutual respect and understanding. Despite the fact that a woman has the same rights as a man, the duties between spouses are clearly demarcated.

The wife is responsible for coziness and comfort, keeps the hearth, resolves disagreements, and the man, being the head, ensures the existence of the family. However, despite his authority, he never interferes in matters of home improvement and conflict resolution. Even in the most difficult situation, the husband always remains on the sidelines.

About kids

Another interesting fact about South Korea is related to the birth of a child. Since the country has a peculiar chronology, the baby is born already at the age of one. This is due to the fact that the child spends 9 months in the mother's womb (almost a year). But that's not all. On the first New Year (January 1), the baby is added one more. Thus, the children here are older than their actual age by as much as 2 years.

To combat discrimination, the government passed a law according to which both son and daughter are considered equal heirs, so the attitude towards the sex of the child is neutral. But Confucian traditions are still preserved. Accordingly, special attention is paid to the elder.

show business world

For many years the country was famous for its "slave contracts". This fact about South Korea is connected to the popular K-pop mainstream. For example, an ex-Super Junior member stated in 2009 that the owners of SM Entertainment did not allow him to take sick leave when he was diagnosed with gastritis and kidney problems.

And it's not the only one similar case. Major labels justify their actions by saying that if a young artist really wants to become popular, he must overcome all difficulties - sleep no more than 4 hours a day, not start a relationship while the contract is in effect, not go on sick leave and much more.

Bad number "4"

An interesting fact about South Korea based on superstition. Residents have a "special" attitude towards the four. The problem is that the transcription of the number 4 is consonant with the word death.

Superstition has reached the point that in buildings after the third floor immediately comes the fifth. Not even in hospitals. Agree, few Koreans want to be treated on the floor called "death", especially if the disease is dangerous.

In some elevators, the "4" button is replaced by English letter F (four). However, in everyday speech, the four sounds without exception.

Let's go back to the past

And finally, I would like to give a few historical facts about South Korea:

  1. "Taehan minguk" 대한 민국 - this is how the people call the country, but most often the abbreviation Hanguk is used in the conversation, and sometimes Namhan.
  2. The word "Korea" comes from the name of the state "Koryo", which existed in 918-1392.
  3. The history of North and South Korea began in 1945, when the Soviet-American agreement was signed. According to the agreement, the first passed under the jurisdiction of the USSR, and the second - the United States.
  4. Although it lasted until 1953, there was no official announcement of the end of hostilities.
  5. The older generation of Koreans does not like the Japanese, as the country's colonization policy rising sun still not forgotten.

Of course, I want to see everything and learn personally, but unfortunately there is no such opportunity yet. Therefore, it is quite interesting to read about the people, traditions and characteristics of certain countries from the people who are there.

For example, South Korea is a country with quite great story and rich traditions. Now just look around korean clips broadcast on television, Korean products capture the market, Korean technology is ahead of many countries! Would you like to know more about the country that is so actively trying to get closer to us?

Here are some details...

the beauty

1. Korean women have a lot of cosmetics. Highly. A lot. If you try to count the number of products for evening care, then there will be about ten of them: makeup remover oil, facial wash, scrub or peeling, face mask, tonic, essence, lotion (yes, this is not the same as tonic ), serum or emulsion, cream, sheet mask and finally a night mask. Just imagine how much Korean women spend on personal care time and money!

2. Lovers of Korean cosmetics in Russia are sure that nothing can be better than Korean brands. But Korean women do not notice their happiness and dream of having the cherished jars of L "oreal and similar brands! The fact is that imported products in Korea are more expensive than their own, and therefore the mass market for us is approaching "luxury" for them.

3. Guys and men also like to take care of themselves. If European brands are limited in the production of men's lines of shaving and washing products, then Korean brands do everything for men that they do for women - from facial wash to BB and CC creams. And by the way, it is as usual for Koreans to carry a mirror with them as it is for Korean women.

4. In cases where cosmetics are not enough, Koreans and Korean women without any hesitation resort to plastic surgery. "Plastic surgery" in South Korea is the same as for us going to the hairdresser, for example, is a common thing. Such a phenomenon as plastic surgery "as a gift" to children from their parents at the end of school or university is also considered common.

5. It's hard to believe, but every fifth Korean woman has already had plastic surgery. And the most popular operation is to change the shape of the eyes.

6. To avoid spending money on dentists, which can be quite expensive in South Korea, Koreans take good care of their teeth. And if in a Russian girl's handbag you can find anything you want, then in a Korean girl's handbag you can find anything you want and a toothbrush :)

7. Koreans rarely suffer from overweight, and the main advantage of almost all Korean women is slender and thin legs.

8. Speaking of legs. Korean women love and often wear mini - this is not considered something shameful, but wearing a dress or blouse with a large neckline is no longer permissible.

9. Koreans and Korean women take care not only of the face, but also of the body. One of the favorite rituals in Korea is going to the bathhouse. In Seoul alone, there are about 3,000 baths or, as they are called in Korea, chimchilbans.

10. Appearance for Koreans is almost in the first place. If you look tired and shabby, they will certainly tell you about it, but not to offend, but solely to help you :)

Food

11. One of the main passions of all Koreans is food. They love to eat tasty and a lot. If you order a dish in a cafe or restaurant, then several additional snacks and salads will probably be attached to it at once.

12. Products in Korean stores are quite expensive, so it is often more profitable to eat in cafes and restaurants than to cook on your own.

13. Koreans are very fond of bargaining, for them it is something like an integral part of the shopping process! If you know the language and find yourself in the market, then be sure to try to bring down the price of the product you like, at least for the sake of interest, be sure you can get the desired product 3-5 times cheaper.

14. If you find yourself in South Korea and want to drink tea, it will be problematic to do so. There is practically no tea in our understanding, and instead of it, Koreans usually drink decoctions from various herbs.

15. But coffee here can be found at every step, Koreans adore it.

16. Restaurants and cafes can be divided into four categories: Korean, Japanese, Chinese and European. The most expensive and prestigious are Japanese ones, followed by European ones, and Chinese and Korean ones can be found both very expensive and very simple eateries.

17. Tipping is not customary in South Korea, and trying to do so can be very offensive to the waiter.

18. Koreans are very fond of drinking and there is even a special ritual "hoeshik", according to which colleagues must gather at the bar after work and drink together once a month or even more often. If you refuse to drink on "hoeshik", then you will be considered a weirdo :)

19. The main product on the table of Koreans is rice. It is used as a side dish, and regular rice porridge on the water is often eaten instead of bread to kill the spiciness. Rice must be eaten to the end, and if you leave it on a plate, then you will be considered a very ill-mannered person.

20. In Korea, it is customary to slurp. Koreans don’t even think that it might look indecent, because in this way they show the chef that they really liked the dish, of course, it’s not customary to do it intentionally loud and defiant :) But chew with an open mouth or talk until you’ve chewed food is considered bad manners just like ours.

Life style

21. One of the manifestations of friendship for Koreans is touching. Do not be surprised if you see on the streets of Korea how guys pat each other on the shoulder, pull their hair and even do a light neck massage :)

24. Popular sports are baseball and golf. Baseball is played by children and adults, and golf is entertainment for middle-aged people. Another view physical activity, which all Koreans love to do - go to the mountains.

25. When to go to Korea? Depends on what you want to do. If you are a fan of skiing, then winter is the perfect time, if you are more into basking in the sun, then go on a trip in the summer, as there are many beaches in South Korea, and if you just want to admire this country, then plan a trip in the spring, when cherry blossoms are everywhere, or in autumn, when the leaves turn yellow.

26. If you decide to write a letter or postcard to a Korean, then put aside the red ink, as it is believed that the name written by them will bring misfortune and even death to the person.

27. Respect for elders is the most important thing in Korean etiquette. Before going to this country, you should carefully study all types of appeals so as not to end up in an uncomfortable situation.

28. Being in the military in Korea is considered prestigious, which is why many K-pop stars go to serve regardless of their career.

29. Another interesting fact about the Korean army: there is no deferment for Korean students, but those who have only a primary school education are not taken into the army.

30. Young couples in Korea can't just decide to "live together" because it's considered immoral. Those who dare to do this will be condemned not only by their elders, but also by their peers. A couple can move into the same apartment only after the wedding.

Education

31. To get an education in South Korea, you have to pay a tidy sum, it is really expensive. By the way, unlike in Russia, in South Korea, legal education is much less popular.

33. Academic year in a Korean school, it is divided not into quarters, but into semesters and, accordingly, schoolchildren have a rest not four, but twice a year: in summer from mid-July to the end of August and in winter from mid-February to early March.

34. In almost all Korean schools, students wear uniforms.

35. Physical education is not considered a compulsory subject in many schools in South Korea; it is usually introduced as an additional discipline.

36. Koreans study in elementary school for 6 years, in middle and high schools for 3 years. Then you can go to college for 2 years, and then to the university - for 4.

37. Although you can study at school for only 12 years, you won’t be able to literally become a “twelfth grader”. The fact is that after the 6th grade of elementary school comes the first grade high school and ends training, respectively, after grade 3 high school.

38. Exams in Korean universities are a serious test. It even comes to the point that reminders are published in the newspapers so that the girls do not overdo it with perfume and do not wear shoes on high heels so as not to distract yourself and others from the fateful exams.

39. A peculiar form of our USE is also in Korea. Almost all exams and tests take the form of tests and students just need to memorize a huge list of correct answers.

40. The high school program in Korea prepares the student for further education in a particular specialty, however, it is not necessary to complete it.

Work

41. Koreans are very hardworking. The school day regimen is also preserved at work - the working day begins at 7.30-9.00, depending on the company, and ends in the late evening. Although the official working day should last until 18.00, many Koreans try not to leave before the boss.

42. By the way, it is customary for men to wait for the departure of the authorities, women can leave earlier.

43. A 30-day vacation for Koreans is an unaffordable luxury. Some companies literally force their employees to go on vacation for one or two weeks, as stubborn Koreans refuse to take a vacation to prove their professionalism to their superiors.

44. Living in Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is quite expensive, so many who work in this city buy housing in the suburbs, where everything is relatively cheaper, but saving money comes at the cost of time spent on the road.

45. There are only 11 official holidays in Korea.

46. ​​If public holidays fall on Saturday or Sunday, they are not transferred to Monday, so some years become especially difficult for Koreans.

47. Koreans spend single weekends with their families - they go to visit each other or get out into nature together.

48. It is difficult for bank employees to stay in one place for a long time. The fact is that many bosses believe that in 2-3 years an employee has too many acquaintances, connections, and they become higher for him than the interests of the company.

49. Competition in South Korea is very strong. If the employee nevertheless decides to go on a long vacation, then when he returns, he will most likely find his place occupied.

50. Even in a small family business, the same strict rules apply as in large corporations: exactly the same long working hours and exactly the same short holidays.

Family

51. A marriage proposal in Korea is usually made purely formally, when a restaurant has already been booked and a guest list has been drawn up. Why then do it at all? Everything is simple - to please the future bride :)

52. Wealthy families hold two weddings - in European style and in traditional Korean.

53. The head of the family in Korea is always a man, this is not discussed.

54. Husband and wife should not quarrel and scold friends in the presence of older relatives.

56. Even in the family circle, it is not customary to address each other by name, this is equated with an insult. There is a special respectful treatment for each member of the family.

57. A Korean family treats a pregnant wife very carefully, all close relatives try to take care of her and show all kinds of care. But the meeting from the hospital does not take place as festively as in Russia.

58. It is customary for children in Korea to be pampered a lot, they are not denied practically anything, but in return they demand a great return in terms of study from children.

59. Mostly mothers bring up children, as fathers spend most of the day at work and return closer to the night and communicate with their children mainly on weekends. However, the father is still the authority for the child.

60. The husband's parents in Korea are called "relatives" in relation to the child, and the wife's parents are called "external". But these are just names, usually both "native" and "external" grandparents communicate with children equally hot :)

Who is familiar with South Korea and lived there, will you correct? Or add...