Life in Seoul through the eyes of a Ukrainian: why foreigners live better in South Korea than Koreans themselves. Disadvantages of living in South Korea How Koreans live in Korea

North Korean counters

The lives of ordinary Koreans in the DPRK are protected from outsiders as a military secret. Journalists can only look at her from a safe distance - through the glass of the bus. And breaking through this glass is an incredibly difficult task. You cannot go to the city on your own: only with a guide, only by agreement, but there is no agreement. It took five days to persuade the accompanying people to take a ride to the center.

Taxis go to the center. The drivers are incredibly happy to see passengers - almost no one uses their services at the hotel. It is impossible to order a taxi for a foreigner in the DPRK. They're taking you to shopping mall on Kwan Bo Avenue - something like New Arbat in Moscow. The store is special - there are two red signs above the entrance. Kim Jong Il was here twice and Kim Jong Un came here once. The shopping center resembles a typical Soviet Central Department Store: a three-story concrete cube with high windows.

Inside, the atmosphere is like in the main department store of a small Russian city. There is a supermarket on the ground floor. There's a line at the cash register. There are a lot of people, maybe even an unnaturally large number. Everyone is actively filling large carts with groceries.

I study the prices: a kilo of pork 22,500 won, chicken 17,500 won, rice 6,700 won, vodka 4,900 won. If you remove a couple of zeros, then prices in North Korea are almost the same as in Russia, only vodka is cheaper. It’s a strange story with prices in the DPRK. The minimum wage for a worker is 1,500 won. A pack of noodles instant cooking costs 6900 won.

How so? - I ask the translator.

He is silent for a long time.

Consider it like we simply forgot about two zeros. - after thinking, he answers.

Local money

And in terms of prices, the official life of the DPRK does not coexist with the real one. The won exchange rate for foreigners is 1 dollar - 100 won, and the real exchange rate is 8,900 won per dollar. An example can be illustrated on a bottle of North Korean energy drink - this is a non-carbonated ginseng decoction. In a hotel and in a store it costs completely different money.

Local residents look at store prices through the lens of denomination. That is, two zeros are subtracted from the price tag. Or rather, adding two zeros to your salary. With this approach, the situation with wages and prices will more or less normalize. And either noodles cost 69 won instead of 6900. Or the minimum wage for a worker is not 1,500, but 150,000 won, about 17 dollars. The question remains: who is buying food carts at the mall and using what? It looks like they are not workers and definitely not foreigners.

Foreigners in the DPRK do not use the local currency, the won. In the hotel, although prices are indicated in won, you can pay in dollars, euros or yuan. Moreover, there may be a situation where you pay in euros and receive change in Chinese money. North Korean money is banned. In souvenir shops you can buy old wons from 1990. Real won are hard to find, but not impossible.

They differ only in the aged Kim Il Sung.

However, real money from the DPRK is of little use to a foreigner - sellers simply will not accept it. And it is prohibited to take national money out of the country.

On the second floor of the shopping center they sell colorful dresses. On the third, parents lined up in a tight formation at the children's play corner. Kids ride down slides and play with balls. Parents film them on their phones. The phones are different, a couple of times quite expensive mobile phones from a well-known Chinese brand flash in my hands. And once I notice a phone that looks like a South Korean flagship. However, the DPRK knows how to surprise and mislead, and sometimes strange things happen - on an excursion to the red corner of a cosmetics factory, a modest guide suddenly flashes in his hands what seems to be the latest model of Apple phone. But if you take a closer look - no, it seemed like it was a Chinese device similar to it.

On the top floor there is a typical row of cafes for shopping centers: visitors eat burgers, potatoes, Chinese noodles, and drink Taedongan light draft beer - one type, no alternative. But they are not allowed to film it. Having enjoyed the abundance of people, we go out into the street.

Pyongyang in style

A new Lada is parked on the sidewalk, as if by chance. Domestic cars are rare for the DPRK. Is this a coincidence - or was the car placed here specifically for guests?

People are walking along the street: many pioneers and pensioners. Passers-by are not afraid of the video recording. A man and a woman, who appear to be 40 years old, are leading a little girl by the hands. They say they are walking with their daughter. Koreans get married late - no earlier than 25–30 years old.

A cyclist in black glasses and a khaki shirt rides by. Girls in long skirts pass by. Girls in the DPRK are prohibited from wearing miniskirts and revealing outfits. The streets of Pyongyang are guarded by "fashion patrols". Elderly ladies have the right to catch violating fashionistas and hand them over to the police. The only truly striking item in the wardrobe of Korean women is the sun umbrella. They can even be flamboyantly colorful.

Korean women love cosmetics. But mostly it's not makeup, but skin care products. As elsewhere in Asia, face whitening is in vogue here. Cosmetics are made in Pyongyang. And the state is closely monitoring her.

In the depths of Pyongyang's main cosmetics factory there is a secret rack. Hundreds of bottles and bottles: Italian eye shadows, Austrian shampoos, French creams and perfumes. The “banned product,” which cannot be bought in the country, is sent to the factory personally by Kim Jong-un. He demands that Korean cosmetologists and perfumers take cues from Western brands.

Men in Korea often wear gray, black and khaki. Bright outfits are rare. In general, the fashion is the same. There are no people who clearly oppose themselves to those around them. Even jeans are illegal, only trousers are black or gray. Shorts are also not allowed on the street. And a man with piercings, tattoos, painted or long hair impossible in the DPRK. Decorations interfere with building a bright future.

Other children

Another thing is North Korean children. Little residents of the DPRK are not like boring adults. They wear outfits of all colors of the rainbow. For girls pink dresses. The boys are wearing ripped jeans. Or a T-shirt with not a portrait of Kim Jong Il, but an American Batman badge. The children look as if they have escaped from another world. They even talk about something else.

What do you like most about the DPRK? - I ask the kid with Batman on his jacket. And I'm waiting to hear the names of the leaders.

The boy looks at me shyly, but suddenly smiles.

Toys and walks! - he says somewhat confused.

Koreans explain why kids look so bright and adults look so bland. There are no serious demands placed on children. Before school age they can dress in whatever they want. But from the first grade, children are taught to live a proper life and explained how everything in the world works. Rules of behavior, way of thinking and adult dress code change their lives.

Street life

There is a stall near the shopping center. Koreans buy DVDs with films - they contain new releases from the DPRK. There is a story about partisans, a drama about an innovator in production, and a lyrical comedy about a girl who became a guide in the museum named after the great Kim Il Sung. DVD players are very popular in North Korea.

But flash drives with films banned by the party are an article. For example, the article covers South Korean TV series. Of course, ordinary Koreans find such films and watch them on the sly. But the state is struggling with this. And he is gradually transferring local computers to the North Korean analogue of the Linux operating system with its own code. This is so that third-party media cannot be played.

A nearby stall sells snacks.

These are the buns that workers buy during their breaks,” the saleswoman says joyfully and hands over a bag of cakes that resemble portions of shortbread cookies with jam.

“Everything is local,” she adds and shows the barcode on the package “86” – made in the DPRK. On the counter is "pesot" - popular homemade pies, shaped like khinkali, but with cabbage inside.

A tram arrives at the stop. A crowd of passengers surrounds him. Behind the stop there is a bike rental. In some ways it is similar to Moscow.

One minute - 20 won. You can rent a bike using this token,” a pretty girl in the window explains the conditions to me.

Having said this, she takes out a thick notebook. And hands it to my translator. He makes a note in his notebook. Apparently, this is a catalog for registering foreigners. A cyclist in black glasses and a khaki shirt stands by the side of the road. And I realize that this is the same cyclist who passed me more than an hour ago. He looks carefully in my direction.

It’s time for us to go to the hotel,” says the translator.

Internet and cellular communications

The Internet that is shown to foreigners resembles a local network, which used to be popular in residential areas. It connected several blocks, and films and music were exchanged there. Koreans do not have access to the global Internet.

You can access the internal network from your smartphone - there is even a North Korean messenger. But there's nothing else in particular. However, cellular communications have only been available to residents of the country for ten years.

The DPRK's internal Internet is no place for fun. There are sites there government agencies, universities and organizations. All resources have been reviewed by the Ministry of State Security. The DPRK does not have its own bloggers or truth-tellers on the Internet.

Memes, social networks, swearing in the comments - these are alien concepts to the capitalist world. I toured different computer labs. Some run on Windows, some on Linux. But not a single computer can access the Internet. Although the browsers there are well-known, there is even a local DPRK browser. But search histories are not names of sites, but sets of IP addresses. Although there is an Internet for journalists: global, fast and insanely expensive.

Dog's dinner

Koreans eat dogs. South Koreans are a little ashamed of this. But in the north they are proud of it. In response to all the indignant remarks, they ask why eating a dog is worse than eating a beef cutlet, pork kebab or lamb soup. Goats, sheep and cows are also cute pets. Just like dogs.

For Koreans, dog meat is not only exotic, but also medicinal. According to tradition, it was eaten in the heat, in the midst of field work, “to expel heat from the body.” Here, apparently, the principle “knocks out fire with fire” works here: the hot and spicy dog ​​meat stew burned the body so much that relief followed and work became easier.

Koreans do not eat all dogs - and pets do not go under the knife. Although it was not possible to see the dog (with or without its owner) on the streets of Pyongyang. Dogs for the table are raised on special farms. And for foreigners it is served in the hotel cafe. They are not on the regular menu, but you can ask for them. The dish is called Tangogi. They bring dog broth, fried and spicy dog ​​meat, and a selection of sauces. All this must be mixed and eaten with rice. You can drink it with hot tea. However, Koreans often wash everything down with rice vodka.

The taste of the dog, if you try to describe the dish, is reminiscent of spicy and insipid lamb. The dish, to be honest, is incredibly spicy, but very tasty - may particularly scrupulous dog breeders forgive me.

Souvenir, magnet, poster

A souvenir from the DPRK is a strange combination in itself. It seems that it is impossible to bring sweet tourist delights from such a closed and regulated country. In fact it is possible, but not much. Firstly, ginseng fans will feel at ease in the DPRK. In the country they make everything from it: teas, vodka, medicines, cosmetics, seasonings.

Lovers of alcoholic beverages won't have much fun. Strong alcohol - or specific alcohol, like rice vodka, which, according to people in the know, gives a strong hangover. Or exotic, like drinks with a snake or seal penis. Drinks like beer exist in two or three varieties and differ little from the average Russian samples. They don't produce grape wine in the DPRK; they do have plum wine.

There are catastrophically few types of magnets in the DPRK, or rather, one with the national flag. No other pictures - neither of leaders nor of landmarks - will decorate your refrigerator. But you can buy a figurine: “a monument to the ideas of Juche” or the flying horse Chollima (emphasis on the last syllable) - this is a North Korean Pegasus carrying the ideas of Juche. There are also stamps and postcards - there you can find images of leaders. Unfortunately, the famous Kim pins are not for sale. A badge with the national flag is the only loot of a foreigner. In general, that's all - the assortment is not large.

Exotic lovers can buy themselves a souvenir passport of the DPRK. This is certainly a nomination for the most original dual citizenship.

Bright tomorrow

It feels like North Korea is now on the verge of big changes. What they will be is unknown. But it seems that reluctantly, a little fearfully, the country is opening up. Rhetoric and attitudes towards the world around us are changing.

On the one hand, the DPRK authorities continue to build their inhabited island. A fortress-state, closed from all external forces. On the other hand, they are increasingly talking not about fighting to the bitter end and until the last soldier, but about the well-being of the people. And the people are drawn to this prosperity.

At the next cafe table three Koreans are sitting and drinking. They are wearing nondescript gray trousers. In plain polo shirts. Above everyone’s heart is a scarlet badge with leaders. And on the hand of the one who is closest is a gold Swiss watch. Not the most expensive - costing a couple of thousand euros.

But with the average salary in the DPRK, you will have to work for this accessory for a couple of lifetimes without days off. And only Kim Il Sung and Kim Jong Il live forever. However, the owner of the watch wears it calmly, perceiving it as something normal. For him, this is already a new, established reality of the Juche country.

Of course, in a society of demonstrative universal equality, there are always those who are significantly more equal. But it seems that the country is facing a closed door to a new world. The people of the DPRK have been frightened by this world for a long time, but in the near future they may have to open this door and face the new world face to face.

How are they 03/30/18 100 145 26

Personal competition, the cult of food and plastic surgery

I have always liked Asian culture.

Ekaterina Alexandrova

left Moscow for Seoul

I entered the Korean language department at Moscow State University and after my second year I went to Seoul for a month-long internship.

When I finished my bachelor's degree, I immediately applied to the master's program at Seoul University state university. This was four years ago. Now I live in Seoul, writing a dissertation and teaching at a private Russian language academy.

Visas

While studying for my master's degree, I received a D-​2 student visa, which allows me to work part-time for several hours a day. To do this, you needed a passport, an application, two photographs, a bank account statement, an invitation from the university and permission from the university to apply for a visa - it states that the work will not interfere with the educational process. The visa application fee is $60. The study visa can be extended; you do not need to leave the country.

A year ago, I changed my visa to E-2: it allows me to work as a teacher in private language academies. It can be applied for by those who graduated from a university in Russia and received a bachelor's degree. To change my visa, I brought to the immigration center an agreement with the employer, the employer’s license, a Moscow State University diploma with an apostille, a medical examination certificate, and a certificate of no criminal record. The visa application fee is $60.

The visa was issued for one year - this is the duration of my work contract. If the employer renews the contract with me, I will extend the visa.

60 $

does it cost to obtain a visa?

To work full time, you need to obtain a residence permit - an F-​2 visa. It is given for 3 years, after which it can be extended. Each visa applicant is assessed according to a point system: you must score at least 80 out of 120. Age, education, knowledge of the Korean language, income, and volunteer work experience are assessed. It is also usually required to complete the Korean Integration Program - a special course for foreigners about life in the country.

Now I just passed the exam to determine the level of the Korean language - I have the fifth, maximum. All that remains is to listen to 50 hours of the integration program - and you can submit documents.

Those who do not know the Korean language well find it difficult to obtain a residence permit.

Public services

Every foreigner who plans to stay in Korea for more than 90 days must apply for a registration card or an alien card. For a non-resident this is the main document.

To get a registration card, you need to come to the immigration center and submit documents: I brought an invitation from the university, an order for admission to the university, a completed application form and a photograph. Three weeks later I received the finished card.

The card shows your home address - if it changes, you must inform the immigration center within two weeks. One day I forgot about this rule and I was fined $70 (3900 RUR).

70 $

fine for incorrectly indicated address on a foreigner’s card

There are two large offices of immigration centers in Seoul. I only met polite and friendly specialists who were never rude. The inspectors don't know English well, so without knowing Korean it will be difficult. You can find volunteer translators at the immigration center - perhaps they can help, but it will not be quick.

Documents are accepted here only by prior electronic registration. This is not always convenient: you cannot get an appointment during peak months. Last time I waited in line for a month, because a new academic semester had begun and there was an influx of students. Urgent questions should be accepted out of turn: for example, if my visa is running out, they will extend it on the same day. I have not checked how this works in practice.

Salaries and work

The Korean currency is called the won. 100 ₩ is approximately 5 R.

The minimum salary in Korea is 7,530 ₩ (398 R) per hour, 1,573,770 ₩ (83,278 R) per month. The amount is set each year by the Ministry of Labor. This is approximately what people working in the service sector earn. My friend worked in the department mobile communications and after 2 years of work received 1,700,000 ₩ (90,500 R) per month.

Young, educated Koreans strive to work in large national corporations. The salary of a young specialist in such a company starts from 2.5 million won (RUR 133,000) per month.

Students begin looking for work in their fourth year. At the beginning of the semester, Korean corporations publish vacancies, students choose the ones they like and send a portfolio. Next, applicants will be invited to take tests - psychological and intelligence tests. Those who pass will be called to a series of interviews, usually three. I also have to go through all this: when I finish my master’s degree, I will look for a full-time job.

Young Koreans who received a good education, complain that it is difficult for them to find work, and are angry with the system. They have equally good education, internship experience in local and foreign companies, but there are not so many high-paying jobs on the market. There are plenty of less prestigious jobs. Official unemployment rate in South Korea - 3,3%.

Koreans work a lot. The standard vacancy states that the working day is from 9:00 to 18:00. In fact, everyone is delayed; the employee cannot leave before his immediate superior. The normal situation is when a newbie works until two in the morning, comes cheerfully in the morning at 9:00, and then works on the weekend.

South Korea has a hierarchical system: if you are older in age or position, you can manage the younger ones. This is especially noticeable in local companies, where all employees are Koreans. Usually managers, people of the old school, drive young people away: if they don’t like something, they will yell at you or even slap you in the face.

After work, it is common for men to have a drink with their colleagues. On the eve of the weekend, such groups will have fun all night: they will eat in one cafe, drink in another, then go to karaoke, then go for coffee. Men drink a lot; drinking on weekdays is considered normal. It’s even surprising that Koreans consider Russians to be a better drinking nation. Korean vodka is called soju, its strength is 20%.

The promotion depends on how many years you have been working for the company. When applying for a job, the applicant is told when he can be promoted and what needs to be done for this: for example, pass some kind of qualifying exam. Usually they are promoted after 3-4 years of work.

3 years

you need to work at least in a Korean company to get a promotion

Vacations in Korea are short: a maximum of 10 days, so everyone tries to relax in National holidays. On the Korean New Year, in February, they rest for 4-5 days. At the end of October - November, three dates are celebrated at once: Thanksgiving Day, Korean Writing Day and the founding day of the Korean state. Last year, these three holidays stood side by side and the whole country rested for 11 days.

Taxes

Personal income tax is calculated and deducted from the salary by the employer. For employees working in Korean companies, the tax rate varies from 8 to 35%, depending on the amount of income.

Our academy retains 3.3% from foreigners. But if your annual salary is less than 24 million won per year, you can apply for a tax deduction.

Value added tax - 10%. It is indicated directly on the check.

Banks

There are about 10 large banks in Seoul; their offices can be found near any subway station. There are also local banks, such as Busan Bank, but they are not particularly visible in Seoul.

Opening an account is easy. I didn’t choose the bank on purpose - I went to the first branch I came across, located on the campus of my university. I filled out the form, after which they issued me a card. The card design can be selected in advance on the bank’s website.

I use what is called a check card - this is an improved debit card. Unlike regular Korean debit, it can be used at any time, not just during bank opening hours. Check cards are accepted in all stores, and you do not need to enter a password when paying. Service is free.

You can control your spending using a mobile application. In Korea, banks are obsessed with security: to pay for a purchase online, you need to verify your identity four times.

This is how I pay my rent. I open the application, access to the account is by fingerprint. I enter the account number and amount and confirm it again with my fingerprint. Then I enter the PIN card and password from a special card. It is issued at the bank along with debit card, this is a mandatory requirement for all banks in South Korea.

Buying something online in South Korea is terribly inconvenient, but you don’t have to worry about scammers. I have never heard of anyone having their money stolen from their card.

It’s easy to pay with a card in a store: major cities There is cashless payment everywhere. Except that the market may not accept the card if the seller is a Korean grandmother. Sometimes sellers ask to pay in cash, but they can be refused.

Housing

It is easy for a foreigner to rent an apartment in Seoul, but decent housing is not cheap. As a rule, apartments are rented through real estate agencies - the metro is full of their offices. The agency will charge a commission for its services.

RUB 21,500

I pay a month for a one-room studio

The rental price depends on the size of the deposit: the larger it is, the less you pay per month. Therefore, in Korea there are two ways to rent housing: “wolse”, with a small deposit and regular monthly payments, and “jeongse”, with a huge deposit, about 90% of the cost of housing, but without monthly rental payments. In this case, you only pay for housing and communal services. This is beneficial for apartment owners, because they will put a huge amount of collateral into circulation.

Room. I lived in a dormitory at my university for a year and a half, I had a double room with a shower and toilet. Monthly rent cost 216,000 ₩ (11,600 R). I made a separate deposit - the amount of one month's rent. It was returned when I left the hostel, only a small amount was deducted for the lost keys.

Students who do not have enough space in the dormitory rent a “koshiwon” or “hasukchib”. Koshiwon is a room in an apartment building designed like a dormitory. Khasukchib is a room in a private house where the owner also cooks food.

Studio. Now I rent a studio apartment near the university. In Korea, such housing is called rooms. There are several types of them: “one room” (one room), “turum” (two rooms) and “ofistel” - studio apartments that can also be used as offices.

I have a oneroom. Singles live in such rooms, for example a man who came to Seoul to work, or an out-of-town student.

Prices vary by area. In my area, near Seoul University and civil service academies, there are many rental housing options, so prices are lower. I pay 400,000 ₩ (21,500 RUR) per month for one room. I pay separately for gas - 20,000 ₩ (1100 R) and electricity - 15,000 ₩ (800 R). I don't pay for water and internet. There is no central heating in Korea; apartments are heated with underfloor heating or air conditioning.

Renting my one-room studio 3 years ago cost at 1,600,000 ₩ (86,500 R). I made a deposit - 1,000,000 ₩ (54,000 R), paid the first month - 400,000 ₩ (21,500 R) and gave 200,000 ₩ (11,000 R) commission to the agency.

Apartment. Renting an apartment costs much more. For example, an office apartment with an area of ​​23 m² will cost 700,000 ₩ (37,000 RUR) per month, another 70,000 ₩ (3600 RUR) will have to be paid for public utilities. The problem is the huge deposit - 10,000,000 ₩ (520,000 RUR).

These apartments are inhabited by people who have already gotten a job, but have not yet started their own family.

RUB 520,000

deposit for one-room apartment in Seoul

It is convenient to search for an apartment through applications, the most popular being “Zigbang” and “Da-bang”. There you can filter offers by distance from the metro, rental amount, deposit, and so on.

Public transport

All transport in Seoul is very comfortable. It is cool in summer and warm in winter. In the subway, for example, the seats are heated.

In the Go PyeongChang app, you can view travel times and costs for all types of transport. It was released specifically for the winter Olympic Games:

Unlike the Moscow metro, there are free, clean toilets at every station. The only negative is that you have to wait a long time for the train, about 10-15 minutes. Unless it's rush hour, of course.

Buses. The trip can be paid for by transport card or cash. Large bills will not be accepted - prepare money in denominations of 1000 or 5000 ₩. The price of a 12 km trip is 1200 ₩ (63 R). The transfer system is very convenient. If you make up to 3 transfers within half an hour (after 21:00 - within an hour), then you only pay an additional 100 won.

Routes are distinguished by colors. Green buses run short distances in one area. Blue buses travel through the entire city, connecting remote areas. Red and yellow buses travel to the suburbs.

Taxi. The trip is paid according to the meter. The price of a 12 km trip is 10,700 ₩ (560 R). I rarely use taxis, only if I'm traveling with friends.

Bicycles. Convenient bicycle rental appeared in Seoul a couple of years ago, and this network is constantly expanding. They made a mobile application for rental. There you can see how many bicycles there are at a particular stop.

The first hour of rental costs 1000 ₩ (53 R), every subsequent half hour - the same amount.

Religion

In Korea, slightly more than half of the population are atheists, Protestants are in second place, and Buddhists are in third place. Therefore, the first thing that may surprise you in Seoul is the huge number of churches that do not have outstanding architecture. Often a church is an ordinary building, sometimes even a residential one, with a cross rising above it.

Churches meet in Seoul different directions Protestantism. Believers want to expand their parish, so they preach on the streets. Church representatives can be found in the subway, on the streets near churches, at train stations and in tourist places, even in universities. They often walk around subway cars shouting that it’s time for everyone to believe in God.

If you decide to talk to the preacher, they will tell you that you speak Korean very well, offer you coffee and talk about problems and your life in Korea. If you listen to the end, they will begin to explain the philosophy of Protestantism to you and invite you to serve. At the end of the conversation, you will be asked to pay for the coffee that was offered to you.

Therefore, I advise you to immediately answer intrusive preachers that you are busy or in a hurry.

School

Studying in South Korea is stressful.

As in Russia, children go to school from the age of 7. In Korea, age is calculated differently, so in Korean it is 8 years old. Education takes 12 years: primary school - 6 years, middle school - 3 years, high school - 3 years.

Koreans study from morning until evening. After classes, they do their homework - right there, at school - and then go to additional lessons at the so-called academies. These are small private schools where they teach piano and guitar, foreign languages, and additional school subjects.

Parents try to keep their children busy as much as possible, so schoolchildren return home at 11-12 pm. On the one hand, parents understand that this is very difficult for children. On the other hand, sitting at home and idle is not accepted in Korea. Koreans are dependent on other people's opinions: if the son mom's friend learning to play musical instrument and is additionally studying two foreign languages, which means that your child also needs to enroll in some courses.

As a rule, in the initial and high school Koreans go to public schools. They are free, except for additional services. In high school, they try to send the child to a private school - if the family, of course, has money. In Seoul, foreign language schools are considered the most prestigious; they are paid and there is a lot of competition.

12 years

lasts education in a regular Korean school

The main goal of an ambitious high school student is to pass the state exam with a decent grade and enter a good university. This is the only way to get a well-paid job in large corporation- in Samsung or Hyundai. If a student does not pass the exam as well as he wanted, he can wait a year and take the exam again. Many people do this.

University

Higher education is paid. At Seoul National University, the cheapest faculties are Humanities, Law and Management. The cost of annual training is 2,611,000 ₩ (137,000 R). The most expensive faculties are veterinary and pharmaceutical, 4,650,000 ₩ (244,000 R) per year. Keep in mind that this state university, so the cost of studying here is several times lower than other universities.

RUB 137,000

costs a year of study at Seoul National University in the humanities

Most universities in South Korea are private. To study completely free of charge, you need to receive a scholarship from a foundation or corporation. It is necessary to pass a series of tests and serious interviews; few manage to be among the lucky ones.

In all of South Korea, only about ten universities are considered prestigious. For the three best universities, the Koreans came up with the designation SKY, based on the first letters of the names: Seoul National University (Seoul National University), Korea University (Korea University), and Yonsei University (Yonsei University). A Korean who wants to work for a large corporation will try to enroll in one of these three universities.

Many Koreans, especially men, graduate late from university - it is normal to study until the age of 30 in Korea. Studying is delayed due to the army: it is customary to leave for service after the first or second year. The service takes 2 years. It is impossible to refuse: bribes do not exist, and, most importantly, the Koreans themselves are suspicious of those who did not serve.

It is also common among students to take a sabbatical and go on internships abroad - for six months or a year. They do this to increase their value in the eyes of the employer. For this purpose, Koreans collect a portfolio - receive certificates of proficiency in computer programs, improve their second foreign language, and pass TOEIC - an exam on the level of English proficiency, which is required in all companies without exception. A maximum score of 990 can be earned on this test. A good score is 850 points and above. Samsung and Hyundai accept applications with scores of 900 points or more.

Medicine

Medical insurance is optional for foreigners. For example, I don’t have it, no one has ever asked about it. Nevertheless, I am going to apply for it because medical services are expensive. Insurance will cover from 40 to 70% of the treatment amount, and in case of hospitalization, the insurance will pay 80% of the costs.

So far I know that the monthly cost of insurance for working foreigners depends on the size of the salary. The amount of earnings - at least 280,000 ₩ (15,000 R) - is multiplied by the rate insurance premium- 5.08%. An employee who earns 1.5 million ₩ (80,000 R) per month will pay 76,200 ₩ (4,000 R) for insurance every month. The employer compensates him for half of the amount.

It is better to take out insurance as soon as you arrive in Korea. I didn’t do this on time, and now I will be charged contributions for all the months I spent in the country. If you are going to Korea to study, you can negotiate with the university to arrange insurance for you.

All hospitals in South Korea are private, the largest are located at universities. There are many Russian patients there - they come to be examined or treated for serious illnesses, such as cancer. Typically, institutions have centers for foreigners with a staff of translators.

I went to appointments at more budget clinics. Recently, at a large medical center I had an ultrasound of the abdominal cavity - without insurance I paid 167,400 ₩ (9000 R), another 30,000 ₩ (1600 R) cost a doctor’s appointment.

9000 R

I paid at the clinic for an abdominal ultrasound

With a cold, I went to therapists in small private hospitals - there are many of them near the metro. The doctor examined me, wrote out a prescription for pills, I paid for it and took the medicine. There is no need to pre-register - just show up and wait your turn. I paid about 30,000 ₩ (1,500 R) for a doctor’s appointment and pills.

In Seoul, 24-hour pharmacies are only open in certain areas; others close at 6 p.m. You can buy the simplest medicines, vitamins and ointments without a prescription.

Hospitals are also closed after 18:00, except for emergency departments. Koreans are ideal patients. In a situation where we call an ambulance, they will go to the hospital themselves, in their own car or taxi. I saw an ambulance on the streets only a few times.

Koreans often use IVs, including for minor ailments. There are even special droppers for hangovers. A cold can be cured with an injection if you see a doctor when the first symptoms appear.

Popular with the older generation oriental medicine, where they are treated, for example, with acupuncture. Older people often go not to regular clinics, but to an oriental medicine clinic.

Cellular communications and Internet

Communication services in Korea are expensive. For 2 GB of Internet, 100 messages and 200 minutes of calls per month, I pay 43,000 ₩ (2300 R).

2300 R

per month I pay for mobile communications

Buying a SIM card is the most difficult thing I've ever had to do while living in Seoul. Although you just need to come to the cellular office and sign an agreement. The difficulty is that you will be asked for a foreigner’s card, and its registration takes time. I was able to buy a SIM card only 3 weeks after my arrival - all this time I was without communication.

Foreigners can use prepaid SIM cards - they are easy to buy, but very expensive. For example, a SIM card for 5 days costs $28 (1600 RUR) - this amount includes 100 minutes of calls to local numbers and unlimited Internet.

The quality of communication in Korea is good. All operators have mobile applications where you can control your balance, see the remaining minutes, connect and disconnect services.

There are no problems with home Internet: as a rule, it is already provided to the rented apartment and is included in the rental price.

In large cities it is easy to connect to Wi-Fi; there are open networks in all public places, even in hospitals. In the metro, each telecom operator has its own Wi-Fi - only subscribers can connect to it.

Products and food

Korea has a cult of food. You cannot skip meals; you must have breakfast, lunch and dinner, preferably at the same time. At work, even the busiest employees take a lunch break. It is customary to have lunch with colleagues, in canteens or cafes.

The basis of Korean dishes is rice and kimchi, spicy pickled cabbage. All dishes are spicy. Koreans have two main seasonings - pepper powder and pepper paste; they are added everywhere. When moving, the hardest thing for me to adapt to was spicy food.

In a traditional Korean restaurant, your order will be accompanied by free snacks - kimchi, soybean sprouts, pickled radish, spicy oden - a Japanese fish meal snack. Korean carrots, popular in Russia, have not been heard of in Korea; they are served only in Russian or Uzbek restaurants.

After eating, Koreans always drink coffee. There are many coffee shops in Seoul - near any subway exit you will find 4-5 establishments. There is always a Starbucks near the metro, where there are almost never empty seats, especially at lunchtime. An Americano at Starbucks costs 4100 ₩ (220 R), in other chain coffee shops - 3500-4500 ₩ (190-240 R).

I buy groceries in supermarkets, there is a large selection there. I try to go shopping at Costco - this is an American chain. It's cheaper there than in Korean supermarkets, and there's more European food.

I can’t find cottage cheese among the usual products, it can be difficult to find hard cheese- it is sold only in large stores and costs much more than in Russia.

Prices in the supermarket are:

• Skim milk, 1 l - 2400 ₩ (128 R).
• Cucumbers, 5 pcs. - 1980 ₩ (105 R).
• Carrots, 4 pcs. - 1980 ₩ (105 R).
• Chicken breast, 400 g - 6000 ₩ (320 R).
• Bananas, branch - 3980 ₩ (212 R).
• Eggs, 30 pieces - 3480 ₩ (185 R).

In the hypermarket you can get a bonus card - “point-khady” in Korean, from the English point card. Then from each purchase you will return a certain percentage of the amount with points. You can use bonuses when buying movie tickets, cosmetics, and other things and thus save money. If you are traveling to Korea for a long time, I advise you to get such cards immediately upon arrival and register them in the application. Then, when purchasing, you can only show the electronic barcode.

Sometimes I go to markets. Thrifty housewives come here for fresh meat and fish, vegetables and fruits, and national pickles. Prices here are much lower than in supermarkets. Markets are usually located deep in residential areas and are difficult to find.

Entertainment and relaxation

Korean families love to spend time in parks. There are many of them in Seoul, the most popular place is the park area along the Han River. Here you can ride bicycles and book excursions along the river. The cheapest excursion during the day costs 15,000 ₩ (800 R). At noon you can board the ship, where there is a buffet - it costs 39,000 ₩ (2100 R).

But the main attraction in the park is to sit on the river bank, order fried chicken and beer and enjoy. A special name was even invented for such leisure - “chimek”, it combines the words “chicken” and “beer”. Chimek and picnics in general are entertainment for spring or autumn. Companies spread blankets on the lawn, take out or order food and communicate: chat, watch videos, play, drink. You can bring a tent with you and relax in it - as if you had left the city for nature.

Shopping is another popular holiday option with family or friends. Large cities are full of shopping centers with restaurants, bars, cinemas - you can spend the whole day in the mall.

Baths and saunas are popular in Seoul; people go to them with family or friends - mostly middle-aged people relax here. A simple option with showers and a shared bath costs 10-15 thousand won (550-800 R) on weekdays and 15-20 thousand won (800-1000 R) on Saturday. There are entire spas where you can order a massage or mask. There are also bathhouses where you can stay overnight. This option is often chosen by travelers who do not want to spend money on a hotel. You just have to sleep on the floor.

Schoolchildren and junior students spend time in Internet cafes playing computer games. "Pisi-ban", or computer rooms, are open until late at night. They often have their own cafes - you don’t even have to get up from your chair to order food.

Middle-aged and older Koreans love to go to the mountains. No matter where you are in South Korea, there will always be a small mountain nearby that you can climb.

If there are several days off, they often go to neighboring provinces: to Gangwon-do, the famous beautiful nature, and to Jeju Island - the most popular resort in South Korea.

You can go abroad for three days. The most popular destination is Japan. There is a visa-free regime for Koreans; you can get there by boat, so the trip is quite affordable. You can also travel to China inexpensively.

If there is a lot of money and vacation days, they most often go to America or countries Western Europe. They especially love France; every Korean girl dreams of spending Honeymoon in Paris.

Beauty and Plastic Surgery

Korean women take great care of themselves. They definitely dye, curl or straighten their hair, change their look every two months - of course, if they can afford it. They won’t even throw away trash without makeup - that’s about them.

Seoul has a huge selection of hairdressers and beauty salons. I make an appointment for a haircut using the Cocoa Hairshop app. I choose a hairstyle, a stylist, a date and immediately pay for the service.

A perm costs 182,000 ₩ (10,000 R), a haircut - 72,000 ₩ (3,800 R), a perm with a restoration procedure and a haircut “My dear hair” costs 266,000 ₩ (14,000 R). Koreans like to give services unusual long names, such as “The Perm That Will Make Your Boyfriend Open His Wallet.”

For manicures I go to small salons near the metro. A manicure with gel polish costs from 40,000 ₩ (2100 RUR). Some hairdressers offer to make a deposit in cash - from 200,000 ₩ (10,500 RUR) - and for this they seriously reduce the price, by about 30%. This is called "hwaewon kaip" and literally means "get a membership" at the salon. Try it if you are going to Korea for a long time.

3800 R

Cost of a haircut in the Cocoa Hairshop app

Beauty salons often offer sets: two services are combined and give an impressive discount. You can also buy a discount coupon for several visits - such promotions are often held when new salons open. For example, I bought a coupon for three visits to the salon, each visit included a haircut and a spa treatment. The coupon cost 120,000 ₩ (6400 R), while one visit to the salon would cost 90,000 ₩ (4800 R): 40,000 ₩ (2100 R) for a haircut and 50,000 ₩ (2700 R) for a spa treatment.

Appearance plays a huge role in Korea. Beauty is a guarantee of success and high salary. Appearance is taken into account when hiring and is often a deciding factor. Attractive foreigners with blond hair and blue eyes will easily find work in South Korea - the demand for such models is huge.

That's why plastic surgery in Korea it is as common as skincare procedures. Koreans took the European type of face as their ideal: big eyes, straight high nose, V-shaped chin, small oval face - the size of a fist, as the Koreans say. Operations that help transform the face to this standard are the most popular.

1000 $

it costs surgery to change the shape of the eyelids in South Korea. It is much cheaper than in Russia or the USA

At the end of school, parents give their girls an operation to make a crease in the eyelid to make the eyes appear larger.

Another popular operation is changing the shape of the face. Korean women break their cheekbones to create a triangular, V-shaped chin.

South Korea is considered one of the capitals of plastic surgery. Thousands of companies offer tours to Seoul to cosmetologists and surgeons. I think this is the result of the so-called Korean wave, when Korean music and TV series became popular in Asian countries. The girls who watched them wanted to be like popular actresses - and Korean surgeons offered a solution.

Plastic surgery in Korea is much cheaper than in Europe or America. In Korea, blepharoplasty - surgery to change the shape of the eyelids - costs about $1,000, while in America you will have to pay at least $6,000.

Language and communication

The Korean language is based on the alphabet - only 44 letters, Chinese characters are very rarely used. The main difficulty lies in the abundance of sounds that do not exist in the Russian language. The Korean alphabet also has two letters “o”, “e” and “n” - it is difficult to distinguish them.

I first came to Korea when I was in my second year. By that time, I had studied Korean for two years at Moscow State University - they focused on studying grammar, so I didn’t understand the language well and spoke it poorly. I could say simple phrases: “How much does it cost,” “It’s delicious,” “It’s spicy,” but I couldn’t get a SIM card and explain myself at the immigration center. Only after studying in Korea for a year did I begin to feel confident in everyday situations.

In major cities you can find free Korean language courses. Volunteers work there, so I’m not sure that you can learn the language well this way. In addition, Seoul has immigrant adaptation programs and a support center for multicultural families. In particular, foreigners are taught the Korean language, told about traditions, explained how to behave in stores, banks and solve other everyday issues.

If you know English, you won't have any problems in the tourist areas of South Korea. At the airport, all signs and signs are in English; in the metro, stations are announced in four languages. But English will not help in solving everyday issues: in general, Koreans speak this language poorly because they learn, first of all, grammar and writing.

Cultural differences

While living in Korea, I got used to the fact that employees in the service sector are polite and friendly. I never once felt uncomfortable because I was a foreigner or maybe dressed differently. Here they will always offer you to sit down, drink tea, and bring you a pillow.

But this standard politeness extends to personal relationships. Koreans never show their emotions. When you meet someone, it is difficult to understand what the person really thinks about you. If a Korean doesn't like something, he will never say so directly. But they will definitely discuss it behind your back.

Life in Korea is competition in all areas. I have a lot of Korean friends, but, for example, in graduate school I didn’t make friends with anyone. From a Korean point of view, every student is a competitor. You will only be treated well if you are completely immersed in your studies and go everywhere with a teacher. If you work and because of this you sometimes accomplish less than others, they will try not to mess with you.

Koreans are very dependent on other people's opinions. I see this in my friends: if they find out that a friend has a new car or a new good job, they will worry and try to catch up with them. You can’t sit still: you need to study more, earn more, get the most prestigious job, buy a good apartment and car. It’s contagious - I also got involved in this race.

What's the result?

I have been living in Seoul for four years now, and I plan to continue to stay here. Seoul has convenient transportation, a developed service sector, you can get a good education and find a decent job.

Cultural leisure (two trips to the cinema and two visits to exhibitions)

50,000 ₩ (2700 R)

1,130,000 ₩ (60,400 R)

If you are planning to study in South Korea or move here to live, then first of all I advise you to learn the language. It’s better not to go with a zero level: it will be too difficult to adapt. You also need to be prepared for the fact that sometimes people will stare at you or even discuss you, especially if you have blond hair. Koreans who have not been abroad have a million stereotypes about Europeans - this can make communication difficult or even nullify it.

Think a hundred times whether you want to raise your children in the stress of endless struggle - first for a place in kindergarten, and then for a place in the office.

If all this doesn’t scare you, you know a fair amount of Korean, and ideally also English, you are ready to work hard and easily adapt to new culture, then welcome.

This country today is one of the most advanced and technologically advanced in the world. But here they do not forget about centuries-old traditions. As part of a project about people who went to live in other countries, I talked with Yana, who married a Korean and settled in South Korea.

I studied in St. Petersburg, at the Faculty of Tourism and Hotel Management. Like many graduates, she went abroad and worked as a hotel guide - first in Turkey, Egypt, then in Thailand. I came to Russia on vacation, for a month or two. I lived in Bangkok for about four years, where I met my future husband. First, he and I went to Canada, and then to Korea.

Should I bow?

My husband is a Korean citizen and works in a construction company. A financier by education, he worked in a bank, then in some financial company in Canada, after which he traveled for a year, which is how he met me.

In Seoul, we first lived with my husband’s parents, then moved to our own apartment. His family is very conservative, and I was very worried about how I would be received. But everything turned out easy. My husband's brother lives in Canada, and their mother spent seven years there - although she never learned to speak English. Only the father of the family does not leave the country - he has his own business.

Since many in the family lived in other countries, they treat foreigners with understanding. I was lucky, I was not required to strictly adhere to traditions - for example, bowing to my parents, calling them only “mom” and “dad”. I started learning Korean with them.

Arrived in Korea - speak Korean

We have been in Korea for three years now. I became pregnant and decided that I would give birth in Russia. Korea has excellent clinics and all kinds of rehabilitation for women in labor, but at home, as they say, even the walls help: I ​​gave birth to a child in Russia, he will have dual citizenship - Russian and Korean.

In Korea, the government helps young families a lot. Locals are now not too keen on getting married, so the state even helps foreigners with family. There are various housing programs; you can sign up for a waiting list in a house under construction.

Photo: Won-Ki Min / Globallookpress.com

When we lived with my husband's parents, they only spoke to me in Korean - this helped a lot. Koreans believe that once you come to the country, be kind enough to study the language and customs and follow them. Even in the market and in the store it will not be possible to communicate, for example, in English, as in other countries. Koreans, even those who know English, try not to speak it.

In every city there are public centers where foreigners can learn the language; to obtain citizenship and registration they must pass an exam. These same courses teach you how to cook local food and serve it as it should be here. I learned how to make kimchi, which I am very happy about.

Your boss is god

When I arrived in Seoul from Thailand, I looked for work at job fairs. Easy to find, lots of opportunities for locals and foreigners. They offered me a job at a hotel, but I didn’t like the conditions there. They also hired me at Marriott, but I didn’t have enough knowledge of Korean - despite the fact that you work with foreign tourists, you need to have excellent knowledge of the local language.

During this time, my husband showed me all of Korea, we traveled a lot. In the end, work didn’t work out, and while I was expecting a child, in addition to studying the language, I went to fitness classes and courses for pregnant women.

In Korea, the labor market is overloaded. Just change your sphere professional activity will not work. You must first unlearn, acquire qualifications, and be sure to get a “correction.”

In Korea, respect for superiors at any level is very developed. Your manager is your god. You cannot leave work before him; when you greet him in the team, you bow to him. If you're at a corporate party, he needs to be served. The manager is always right. I call this “collective slavery.”

Outside of work, if you communicate with a person older than you, even if you are friends, you address him only as you. You can't argue with him. Many young Koreans migrate to the United States and other countries in search of work. At work, Koreans try to hone their skills like a robot; they are completely dedicated to their work.

On the brink of war

When you come to Thailand, everyone smiles at you, but soon this superficial thing goes away, and they begin to hate you. In Korea they hate you right away. Although the attitude towards foreigners here is not very good, this does not affect me, because my husband has created such conditions that I am very comfortable.

I have a family visa, which we are extending, and later I can become a resident. If you come with a tourist or work visa, you feel less comfortable in this country.

There are three or four American military camps in South Korea. In theory, they perform security functions. Relations with North Korea are on the brink of war - they hate each other and are not even trying to get closer. There is a lot of talk on television that North Korea is an extremely poor country. Tourists are shown only certain places there; many residents try to escape from there to China, Thailand and other countries.

Learn, baby

I'm a biathlon fan. The Korean team in this sport has a Russian coach, preparing them for the Olympics, and they also bought two Russian biathletes. They were even given Korean passports! Koreans try to be the first in everything, and for this they need to create certain conditions, which is what they do.

It is very common practice here to find brides in neighboring countries- Vietnam, Philippines. But Korean women are in no hurry to get married: she may be forty years old when she thinks about this question.

Korean children are special in some way - they are like kings. Their safety has been very well thought out. Even from childhood, Koreans are encouraged to study and study, otherwise you will not achieve anything in life, it will be difficult to find a job.

To the pubs

South Korea is very modern, there is a fast pace of life, people are in a hurry, they work a lot. The country is small, and land here is expensive - it is almost impossible to buy an apartment; 70 percent of the total population rents housing or takes out a bank loan.

There are five or six super rich families in Korea. They are the ones who open shopping centers, hospitals, institutes and all kinds of companies.

The average salary in the country is around two to three thousand dollars, prices in stores are high. Most are sold in large supermarkets. Two liters of milk, for example, cost five dollars. Local products are more expensive than imported ones, and they are of better quality. Older generation Koreans are obsessed with healthy eating, which cannot be said about young people who love fast food. There are special tours to the mountains where you can try salads and other healthy foods prepared by the monks.

In the evenings all the people go to pubs. They really love to sit, talk, drink local beer and sojo - this is local wine. There are many different markets, there is even a Russian quarter, but it’s more like one name: people from Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, and so on live there. They run a cafe and transport things from Korea to their countries. I have a couple of friends here from Russia. One friend graduated from college in Korea and speaks the language perfectly.

After some time, my husband and child are planning to move to Canada. There are good social packages and a high standard of living. And for the child as a future schoolchild it is better there than in Korea, and higher education It is preferable to receive in Canada.

On this moment I live on a peninsula washed by three seas - the Yellow Sea, the Sea of ​​Japan and the East China Sea. This is truly an amazingly resilient country, the Republic of Korea.

I first flew to Korea in March 2012 from Uzbekistan. The South Korean government allocates a certain number of work visas each year to people of Korean nationality living in other countries.

It was on this visa that my husband and I returned to our historical homeland. We decided to stop in the city of Incheon. It is one of the largest cities in Korea and hosted the 2014 Asian Games last year.

First impressions of Korea

Unlike Uzbekistan, where I was born and raised, in South Korea every meter of land is used. The area of ​​the premises is expanded both upward and inward due to the construction of underground floors. It is not uncommon for crop areas to exist right within the city, in the middle of busy areas.

Korean retirees love to travel.

Korean pensioners have become great role models. Despite their respectful age, they lead a very active lifestyle. It is very rare to see grandmothers fussing with their grandchildren or spending evenings knitting in their hands. They unite in small groups and travel to different countries, go to the mountains or to the sea.

In general, the nation is highly educable. The older generation is trying to keep up with the youth in every way, mastering everything modern tendencies. If in Uzbekistan you can find pharmacies and cafes at almost every step, then in South Korea these are factories. When you drive past an endless string of factory buildings, it seems that they occupy most countries.

The demand for labor and decent wages attract a huge number of people here not only from the post-Soviet space, but also from China, Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines and other countries.

Mentality

South Korea for me personally was and remains a misunderstood country. Before arriving, I knew about this country only from TV series, where I admired the beauty and prettiness of the main characters, as well as the courage and breadth of soul of the male movie characters.

In real life, I was surrounded by painted, manicured guys in tight pants, and girls on rough and heavy platforms. There is a clear cult of beauty in the country.

Interesting company name in South Korea. Doesn't it remind you of anything?

They say that plastic surgery here is one of the most popular branches of medicine. A widespread operation to create European century, even on the smallest children. People often go to clinics to change the shape of their nose.

Women spend a lot of money on beauty treatments and buying skin care products. The daily application of creams turns into a real ritual and it will not be difficult for an uninitiated adherent to get confused in the cute and fragrant tubes. Korean cosmetics are now gaining popularity among women all over the world, thanks to natural and innovative ingredients.

Korean women almost never use bright colors in their makeup; everything is done in natural shades. And if you meet a woman with brightly colored eyes on the street, then mostly these are always guests or immigrants from the CIS countries.

Both men and women pay great attention to their hair. Young guys love to wear makeup different colors, sometimes these colors are just crazy. And older men dye their gray hair black. The girls almost all have the same straightened hair; only married ladies go for perms.

In my opinion, American influence is felt in many areas. It would seem that in South Korea, as in China, the most popular drink should have been tea. But local population literally obsessed with coffee, and coffee shops are the most popular meeting places for young people.

Another American borrowing is the “Hollywood smile.” Dental services are quite expensive, even with health insurance. So don’t be surprised, but sometimes you can even find them on the street with a toothbrush in their hands.

Work in Korea

The Korean factory is one of many thousands.

Koreans are great workaholics; they are ready to work 25 hours a day, especially if this is an order from their superiors. Perhaps this explains the high economic indicators achieved in such a short period of time.

The Eastern mentality has been preserved in almost absolute obedience to superiors and elders. It happens that a boss can even hit a subordinate, and he will take it for granted.

There is a clear hierarchy in all structures. This is not easily accepted by people from Russia, since we were brought up with slightly different standards.

Family and marriage in Korea

Koreans generally marry late, trying to first reach a certain level in their career. Local girls are very picky when choosing a life partner, so many South Korean men bring wives from the CIS countries. This is motivated by the fact that our girls are less spoiled and enjoy doing housework.

By the way, women in Korea hardly cook; they mostly eat in cafes or take advantage of home delivery of ready-made food. And Koreans eat a lot and often. The greatest show of love and care is to feed a person. And if a guy decides to court a girl, he immediately starts feeding her all sorts of goodies.

Koreans themselves

Koreans, for the most part, are friendly people, but a little grumpy. At first, hearing the grumbling of, for example, a taxi driver, I wanted to respond with some harsh word.

But as I learned more about the mentality and language of this people, I began to understand that this is just some kind of peculiarity of speech and it’s not even worth being offended or angry about it.

Adaptation in Korea

The language is quite easy to learn; there are many borrowed words from English speech. It’s not difficult to navigate around Korea, even if you don’t know the language at all. In the metro and large institutions, signs are duplicated in three languages ​​- Korean, English and Chinese.

The artists are preparing to perform on stage.

In any place, be it a bank or a shopping center, a hospital or a city hall, everything is aimed at human convenience. The toilets deserve special praise. They are available in all buildings for free use. If you need to visit the toilet, you can go into any room and there will be clean and comfortable stalls on each floor. And all this is absolutely free.

The main type of meat is pork; beef is 3-7 times more expensive than pork, depending on the country of origin. The local cuisine is very specific; after living there for almost three years, I still haven’t gotten used to it. Koreans consume large quantities of red and black peppers, which may explain the ubiquity of toilets. 🙂

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

10 facts about South Korea: interesting and downright strange

She was once named one of the most promising in the field of innovation by a Boston consulting group. 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 related to drinking alcohol - for them it is a fairly important part of the culture, helping to get to know each other better. Therefore, at least once a week, residents of the country always get together with friends to have a glass. Such gatherings even have their own name - hoesik. However, when it comes to alcoholic beverages, 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. Each society has its own superstitions: if Europeans bypass black cats, then residents of the Land of Morning Freshness 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 associated 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 country's residents were shocked by the American's behavior and 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 their financial status, have always been held in high esteem. Therefore, if you encounter 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 university, which puts the quality of education in the country second in the world. What is this connected with? Thanks to private institutions (hagwons), children have the opportunity to study many subjects, ranging from mathematics to belly dancing or taekwondo. On average, the country's parents spend up to $17 billion a year on their children's education. But this technique also has its drawbacks. Firstly, only rich families can afford education, while the poor are content with little. Secondly, classes at hagwons are held in the afternoon, which means that children attend school twice and come home tired.
   

   

5. Which is better: Japan or Korea? If there are many examples of friendly rivalry in the world (Australia - New Zealand) or bellicose (India - Pakistan), then these Asian countries are the “golden mean”. Even if they don't point nuclear weapons at each other, 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 infiltrating the territory of the former. Decades later, the situation has, of course, changed, but Koreans believe that the Japanese have still not officially apologized.
   

   

6. Discussions about skirts. It's strange to see so many bare legs in a conservative country. But miniskirts are the norm in South Korea. Even a business woman can wear business meeting an outfit that barely covers the butt, and no one will regard this as vulgarity.

   

7. An amusement park with a toilet theme. There are many strange attractions in the world, but this place in South Korea literally outdoes them all. A park with an "interesting" theme located in the city of Suwanee has been 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 the results of a survey conducted back in 2009, every fifth woman in the country has gone under the knife. Basically the requests are the same: V-shaped chin, small nose and big eyes.

   

9. Bullfights. No, we are not talking about a red rag or a bullfighter. Cattle Fight in Korea Ranchers are constantly on the lookout for good "fighters." More often they choose massive ones, 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 sorrows in rice wine.

   

10. Terminator jellyfish. Perhaps the most interesting fact about South Korea, more reminiscent of a science fiction film script. The oceans are teeming with jellyfish, so a group of scientists created a robot specifically to combat them. Due to the invasion of marine animals, the country lost 300 million dollars, and in Sweden it was necessary to close a nuclear power plant. 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, especially, disorder 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, when building houses they use modern technologies in the form of a heated floor.

Another interesting fact and custom of South Korea is associated with the ceremony of remembrance 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 the Chere ceremony is performed on New Year's Day, Thanksgiving Day and death anniversary. Koreans also sincerely believe that if their ancestors bless them, then life will be happy.

The next interesting fact about South Korea is related to gestures. When you call someone over, raise your hand, palm down, and wave, moving your fingers. Never make this gesture with your palm up, much less with your index finger - only dogs are called that way in the country.

Facts that prove South Korea is beyond our understanding

Residents of the country are especially careful about oral hygiene, since dental services are very expensive. It is customary here to brush your teeth after every meal, and you can often find a brush in your handbag. In addition, in the restrooms of some establishments there is always a free disposable device for brushing teeth.

The next interesting fact about South Korea and Koreans is based on statistics. Many residents are myopic, so they wear glasses or contacts since childhood. This fact gives the impression that they are all born with poor eyesight. But that's not true. As mentioned earlier, Koreans are very smart and spend most of their time studying, immersed in their favorite gadgets. It is worth noting that not everyone is concerned about the disease. For example, Lim Dong Hyun (two-time Olympic champion) sees only 20% of normal. But the irony is that a man is participating in an archery competition!

Korean cosmetics have long captivated Western and domestic fashionistas, but here everyone uses it, regardless of gender or age. Korean women carefully monitor appearance hair and skin, so they buy an incredible amount of products. They never go out without makeup. Young Koreans also care about their 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 tried dog meat. Moreover, a movement to abandon the traditional dish is gaining popularity in the state. There was widespread support from young people who had been brought up to treat animals as friends. By the way, public policy also discourages the consumption of dog meat.

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

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

Korea is the cradle of eSports. Early 2000s computer game Star 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: a computer game is a real sport, for which players spend many sleepless nights while training.

And a few words about compulsory military service. According to the law, every Korean must undergo 21 months of military training. This iron rule is observed regardless of the social status of the resident. Only those who are incompetent and those who defend the honor of the country in the international arena can excuse themselves. For example, football players Ki Sun-young (Swansea) and Park Ji-sung (Manchester United) were exempted from military service.

Start of a relationship

If in Russia and many other countries first love is most often met at school, then in the Land of Morning Freshness this is more difficult. An interesting fact about life in South Korea is that for every child, school always comes 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 classes, then electives, tutors, classes... When to fall in love?

But when you enter university, everything changes. Studying is not so hard, so many students live for their own pleasure: on Fridays they get together with a group and drink soju, join hobby groups and clubs. This is the best time because after graduation almost all of them long years will work from morning until late evening.

Therefore, romantic relationships among young Koreans begin during their university studies.

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 the relationship, and after the meeting ends, 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 advantageous against her background.
2. After a while, "witnesses" are not needed and lovers can walk around holding hands, but kissing and hugging in public is inappropriate in Korea.
3. Another trend for couples is the same style. The phenomenon is called Couple Look - clothing stores make good money from it.
4. An important date for lovers is the hundredth day from the date of their meeting. Girls expect from guys not flowers and sweets, but designer jewelry, clothes, cosmetics, shoes, and bags. According to one Korean blogger, a gift costs an average of $800.
5. To move on to a closer relationship, the couple must date for at least a year.

Family matters

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

Home warms hearts, and every person should have a family. The opinion of the oldest family member is dominant. Not a single South Korean would dare to create a new family without the consent of the older generation and parental blessing. Of course, now freedom of action is much wider, but neither a boy nor a girl can do without the guidance of a mother and father. Excessive parental control, on the contrary, is welcome.

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

When meeting parents, names are not mentioned - only “mom” and “dad”. This treatment is connected with another interesting fact about South Korea. According to legend, the meaning of the name, having great weight, influences fate, making a person more vulnerable. Therefore, residents of the Asian country rarely give their names.

Family relationships in South Korea have always been characterized by mutual respect and understanding. Despite the fact that a woman has the same rights as a man, the responsibilities between spouses are clearly delineated.

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 home improvement issues and conflict resolution. Even in the most difficult situation, the husband always remains on the sidelines.

About children

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

To combat discrimination, the government passed a law according to which both son and daughter are considered equal heirs, therefore the attitude towards the gender of the child is neutral. But Confucian traditions were still preserved. According to this, special attention is paid to the eldest.

The world of show business

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

And this is not the only such case. Major labels justify their actions by saying that if a young performer 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 valid, 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 there is immediately a fifth. It's not even in hospitals. Agree, few Koreans would want to be treated on a floor called “death,” especially if the disease is dangerous.

In some elevators the "4" button is replaced with English letter F (four). However, in everyday speech the number 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 what the residents call the country, but most often the abbreviation Hanguk, and sometimes Namhan, is used in conversation.
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 came 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, since the colonization policy of the Land of the Rising Sun has not yet been forgotten.