Korean Culture

What do little ‘c’ and big ‘C’ cultures mean?

Big 'C' culture refers to institutions, history, and great works (e.g., language, politics, religion), while little 'c' culture refers to everyday behaviors, customs, and practices (e.g., food, etiquette, daily habits).

How are Korean names structured?

Korean names usually consist of a one-syllable family name followed by a two-syllable given name.

What are popular Korean names?

Popular family names include Kim, Lee (Yi), and Park. Common given names vary by generation but often include syllables with positive meanings.

How do Koreans address each other?

They use titles and honorifics based on age, status, and relationship rather than first names. Terms like "sunbae" (senior) and "hoobae" (junior) are common in schools and workplaces.

What are Hakbun / Sunbae / Hubae in Korean culture?

Hakbun refers to a student’s school year. Sunbae is a senior and hubae is a junior in school or work hierarchies.

What does Hunminjeongeum mean?

It means “The Proper Sounds for the Instruction of the People,” the original name for Hangul created by King Sejong in 1443.

What is Hangeul?

The Korean alphabet system, created in the 15th century, known for its scientific design and ease of learning.

Who created it and why?

King Sejong the Great created Hangul to promote literacy among commoners who could not read Classical Chinese.

What is the name of the Korean flag?

It is called Taegeukgi.

What do its symbols represent?

The circle (taegeuk) symbolizes balance, and the trigrams represent heaven, earth, fire, and water—key elements of harmony in the universe.

What is the national flower of South Korea?

The Mugunghwa (Rose of Sharon), symbolizing endurance and perseverance.

What are features of the Korean peninsula?

Mountainous terrain with river valleys, coastal plains, and a temperate climate. It is surrounded by water on three sides.

What is on Korean money?

Korean banknotes feature notable historical figures such as King Sejong and Shin Saimdang, and include cultural symbols like scientific tools and traditional calligraphy.

What are the geographical features of the land in South Korea?

South Korea is mountainous (about 70% of the land), with major rivers like the Han and Nakdong. The eastern coast is steep while the western coast is more gentle with many islands.

What divides North and South Korea?

The Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), a buffer zone established in 1953 following the Korean War.

What are the provinces of South Korea?

There are 9 provinces: Gyeonggi-do, Gangwon-do, Chungcheongbuk-do, Chungcheongnam-do, Jeollabuk-do, Jeollanam-do, Gyeongsangbuk-do, Gyeongsangnam-do, and Jeju-do.

What are the main features of Gyeongbokgung Palace / Changdeokgung Palace?

Gyeongbokgung is the main palace of the Joseon Dynasty, known for grandeur and symmetry. Changdeokgung is famous for its Secret Garden and harmony with nature.

What does Jeong mean in Korean Culture?

Jeong refers to a deep emotional bond that develops over time, emphasizing compassion, attachment, and connectedness.

What is Hageyon/ Hakyeon in Korean culture?

They refer to school ties and academic background, which play an important role in social and professional networking.

What is Goyeonjeon?

A traditional Korean ceremony to honor one's ancestors, often performed during major holidays.

When are the important holidays in Korea? Who attends them? How are they celebrated?

Major holidays include Seollal and Chuseok. Families gather, perform ancestral rites, and share traditional foods and games.

What is the protocol on Teacher’s Day?

Students give flowers or appreciation letters to teachers. Celebrated on May 15, King Sejong’s birthday.

What are Korean weddings like and where are they held?

They include traditional rituals like Pyebaek. Modern weddings are held in wedding halls and often mix traditional and Western styles.

What is Confucianism?

An ethical system based on Confucius' teachings, emphasizing respect for elders, filial piety, and social harmony.

What religions are practiced in Korea? What were the first to appear?

Buddhism and Shamanism were first. Today, Buddhism, Christianity, Confucianism, and folk beliefs are practiced.

What is Korea’s folk religion? What are some aspects of it?

Korean Shamanism (Muism), involving rituals by shamans to communicate with spirits for protection and blessings.

What happens at a Korean funeral?

Funerals last about 3 days. There is a wake, and the deceased is either buried or cremated.

Where and how do they bury their loved ones?

Traditionally on family-owned mountains or cemeteries. Cremation is now common due to land shortage.

How are first birthdays celebrated?

With a Doljanchi. The baby wears hanbok and chooses items representing their future.

What are taboos in Korea?

Writing names in red ink, sticking chopsticks in rice, and touching someone's head are considered taboos.

How do Koreans analyze blood types?

Blood types are believed to determine personality traits, similar to zodiac signs.

What are Jeom / Saju / Punsujiri / Gosa in Korean culture?

Jeom: fortune-telling; Saju: astrology; Punsujiri: geomancy; Gosa: rituals for good fortune and protection.