Seoul's Language and Culture

The Koreans are one ethnic family speaking one language.  They share certain distinct physical characteristics which differentiate them from other Asian people including the Chinese and the Japanese, and have a strong cultural identity as one ethnic family. The Koreans are one ethnic family speaking one language.  They share certain distinct physical characteristics which differentiate them from other Asian people including the Chinese and the Japanese, and have a strong cultural identity as one ethnic family. The fact that all Koreans speak and write the same language has been a crucial factor in their strong national identity.  Modern Korea has several different dialects including the standard one used in Seoul and central areas, but they are similar enough that speakers/listeners do not have trouble understanding each other.

The family is the most important value and part of Korean life. The father is the head of the family and it is his responsibility to provide food, clothing and shelter, and to approve the marriages of family members. The eldest son has special duties: first to his parents, then to his brothers from older to younger, then to his sons, then to his wife, and lastly to his daughters. Family welfare is much more important than the needs of the individual. Members of the family are tied to each other because the actions of one family member reflect on the rest of the family

The concept of Kibun is very interesting and significant to Korean society and culture. Kibun refers to pride, face, mood, feelings or state of mind. It is important to know how to judge the state of someone else's kibun, how to avoid hurting it, and how to keep your own kibun at the same time If you hurt someone's kibun you hurt their pride, cause them to lose dignity, and lose face. Korean interpersonal relationships operate on the principle of harmony. It is important to maintain a peaceful, comfortable atmosphere at all times, even if it means telling a "white lie". In business, a manager's kibun is damaged if his subordinates do not show proper respect. A subordinate's kibun is damaged if his manager criticizes him in public. Since this is a culture where social harmony is crucial, being able to judge another person's state of mind is critical to maintain the person's kibun.

Etiquettes and customs in South Korea are also very strict. In terms of greetings, many South Koreans shake hands with expatriates after the bow, thereby blending both cultural styles. The person of lower status bows to the person of higher status, yet it is the most senior person who initiates the handshake. The person who initiates the bow says, "man-na-suh pan-gop-sumnida", which means "pleased to meet you". When you leave say good-bye and bow to each person individually. 
The protocols are also strict when it comes to dining and table manners. The hosts greet each guest individually. The host pours drinks for the guests in their presence. The hostess does not pour drinks. Wait to be told where to sit. The eldest are served first. The oldest or most senior person is the one who starts the eating process. Try a little bit of everything. It is acceptable to ask what something is. Finish everything on your plate Afterwards, the hosts usually accompany guests to the gate or to their car because they believe that it is insulting to wish your guests farewell indoors. A thank you note would be sent the following day after being invited to dinner.