Of Walls and Gates

What comes to your mind instantly, when someone mentions the word ‘Namdaemun’ to you? Namdaemun Market? No, I was thinking of something more valuable, like a National Treasure.

I believe you must be curious to hear about the legend of the Mugunghwa from last week, so I shall not waste any more time and tell you about it now.

The Legend of Mugunghwa

There once lived a beautiful and warmhearted woman. Not only was she pretty, but she was good at writing poetry, calligraphy, painting and singing. Many of the men in the village were in love with her and wanted to marry her, but she chose to marry a poor, blind man. Everyone was curious as to why she chose to marry this blind man when she could have had any man in the village. As they were poor she had to go out to work doing the menial tasks but she never even complained. She was a good wife and took very good care of her husband. The villagers took pity on her with all the hardship she had to suffer. The story of the beautiful woman and her blind husband spread widely until it reached the ears of the village administrator. He decided to see for himself and sent for her. When he saw her, he was completely smitten by her. She was so beautiful and well behaved that he wanted to marry her immediately, although he knew that she was already married. He made her a proposal of marriage, but the woman refused, and told him that she could not do so as she was already married.

He pleaded with her and promised her that he would do anything for her if she would marry him. He even tried to lure her in many ways but she cried and pleaded to go home. However much she cried it was of no avail, instead the administrator got angry and threatened her that if she didn’t obey him, he would kill her. He just couldn’t believe that she would want to go back to a blind man.

Then she cried out that she couldn’t marry him even if she were to die and that she would rather die which angered him even more. He immediately ordered her to be killed. Before she died she requested that she be buried under the fence of her house.

The following year, a flower plant grew up under the fence where the innocent woman was buried. This plant surrounded the fence and gave bloom to very beautiful flowers. This is the Mugunghwa, The Rose of Sharon. To take care of the blind husband, she was reborn as a tree. All the people thought of this Rose of Sharon as the spirit of the beautiful woman who died for her husband. It’s only a legend so it’s up to you to believe it or not.

This was the answer I was expecting to get from you with regards to my question earlier on, the Namdaemun Gate. One of the most iconic South Korean landmarks, it is located right in the center of downtown Seoul, in Jung-gu between Seoul Station and Seoul City Plaza, just next door to the Namdaemun Market. But, there can’t be a gate unless there’s a wall, so today I shall be taking you back to the early 14^th Century in the history of Korea to find out more about the gate and the wall.

King Taejo, the first king of the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910) was a man of vision. He moved his capital to Seoul in 1394. A city wall was in the mind of the king even before he picked the capital city for his new kingdom. He said that “a city wall was a country’s fence that kept out violent enemies and protected the people. Thus, it should be erected.” After he announced that Hanyang (present-day Seoul) would be the new capital later that year, Taejo ordered the construction of Jongmyo, a shrine for ancestors and Gyeongbok Palace, a home for himself. And to complete his vision, he initiated the building of a protective city wall. Taejo ordered experts to find a good site for the wall. Seoul is blessed in that it is surrounded by mountains, on its four sides, the Bugaksan to the north, Namsan to the south, Naksan to the east, and Inwangsan to the west. The wall was built connecting these four mountains. Stone walls were built on the mountains themselves and earthen walls on the flatlands between them. Most of this original wall was completed in 1396, although it was a few years later that all the gates were completed. It was 18.2 kilometers long and 6.1 meters high. Four major gates and four smaller ones were also built to control passage in and out of the capital.

With modernization and the beginning of Japanese colonial period, (1910-1945) the city wall became an obstacle to progress. When the Japanese officially annexed Korea in 1910, they set about devising plans to modernize Korea, and as a result nearly all the city wall that stood on flatland was torn down. Today only small parts of its remnants remain.

The Namdaemun Gate was constructed in 1398 during the reign of King Taejo in the early Joseon Dynasty. The structure was rebuilt in 1447 during the reign of King Sejong. A major construction on the gate was done in 1479 during the reign of King Seongjong and has been renovated several times since.

It was once one of the three major gateways through Seoul's city walls, the others being the East Gate (Dongdaemun) and the now-demolished West Gate in the Seodaemun-gu district, named after the old gate.

Before the 2008 fire, Namdaemun was the oldest wooden structure in Seoul. The city gate made of wood and stone was originally used to greet foreign emissaries, to control access to the capital city, and to keep out tigers in the area. The meaning of Sungnyemun, its original name, is Gate of Exalted Ceremonies whereas Namdaemun means Great Southern Gate. The gate is located in the center of the stone wall, and a two-storied pavilion with five compartments on the front and two compartments at the sides was constructed on top of the gate.

The city wall became an obstacle to progress and sections of the wall were demolished, ostensibly "to make the traffic system more efficient."

Namdaemun was extensively damaged during the Korean War and was given its last major repair in 1961, with a completion ceremony held on May 14, 1963. It was designated  "National Treasure No.1" on December 20, 1962. 

The Gate was renovated again in 2005 with the building of a lawn around the gate, before being opened once again to the public with much fanfare on March 3, 2006.

A fire broke out on February 10, 2008 and severely damaged the wooden structure at the top of the Namdaemun gate. It was a case of arson

So you can see that the Namdaemun Gate played an important role in the history of Korea. But now it will no longer be known as the oldest wooden structure in Seoul anymore.

Since we are in the vicinity we might as well pay a visit to the Namdaemun Market.

Namdaemun Market is the largest traditional market in Korea with over 10,000 stores that line the streets around Namdaemun Gate. Namdaemun Market is renowned for its vast size and the variety of goods it offers. Namdaemun Market opens from 11:00pm to 3:00am.You can find almost anything under the sun here and if you can’t find what it is you’re looking for here, chances are you won’t find it anywhere else in Seoul.

Namdaemun Market sprawls over 24 blocks, with each block featuring a different specialized shopping zone, the market's clothing zone being the largest. More than 6,000 of the 10,000 shops that make up the market are clothing and accessories stores. Because many domestic retailers and foreign buyers come here to purchase goods at wholesale prices to resell in their stores, Namdaemun Market is considered to have a huge influence on the fashion industry. The ladies’ wear section is particularly popular, offering quality fashions in casual wear, formal wear, leisure wear and much more. But ladies’ wear is not the only type of clothing that is widely available; as much as eighty percent of all children’s wear traded in Korea goes through the children's wear section in Namdaemun Market. If you want to shop for children’s wear, it is best to arrive early since the shops here close at about 3 or 4 p.m.

Although the shops are small, most of them produce the goods they offer themselves, allowing for customers to purchase goods directly from the manufacturers at wholesale prices. As there are many shops selling the same things it is best to compare prices before making your purchases, so that you’ll get the best deals.

Namdaemun Market is an absolute haven for street shoppers. The area’s myriad walkways are flanked with streams of shops and cluttered stands selling everything from inexpensive clothing, accessories and glasses to cameras, imported foods and tableware. Much of the market is outside, but there are also many stores which line the streets. With all this selection and discount prices, it is no wonder why Namdaemun attracts the crowds.

Still haven’t seen anything you like? Why not try the shops in the  underground shopping area?

At the north of the market (the entrance from exit 5, line 4 Hoehyeon station), there are stores lining the street selling imported goods and accessories. This is a particularly good area to buy souvenirs, so it will be packed with tourists.

And no shopping experience can be complete without a little eating. All this walking deserves a good rest and what better than to take in the experience of Korean eateries, or pojangmachas, and sample some traditional delicacies like kimbap, noodles and a host of delicious pan-fried foods.

And with this I bid you happy shopping and don’t get lost. I nearly forgot, it’s best you carry cash with you, as most of the shops here don’t take credit cards. See you again next week.

Special thanks and appreciation to the following:
Photos and articles © courtesy:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Namdaemun

http://forum.koreansentry.com/a/seoul-city-wall_post984.html

http://www.visitseoul.net/en/seoul-shopping/namdaemun-market.jhtml

National Symbols

Hi everyone, how have you been? Good? Are you ready for your first history lesson? Come on don’t give me that look. I promise you, it will not be boring. So please stay around for a while. But before I begin, I am going to ask you 3 very basic questions about South Korea. Can you tell me the name of the national flag, the national anthem and the national flower? If your answers are Taegeukgi, Aegukga and Mugunghwa then you are correct. But do you know the history behind them? So, today I’m going to tell you something about them.
The Taegeukgi became the official flag of the Republic of Korea in 1948. The name was derived from the taeguk circle in the center. The flag has a white background in the center of which is the taegeuk, or yin-yang symbol, around which are arranged four trigrams. The circle is divided equally and in perfect balance. The red upper section represents the yang and the blue lower section stands for the yin. According to traditional Oriental Philosophy, the two symbolize the great cosmic forces, which oppose each other but yet achieve perfect harmony and balance.
The white background of the flag symbolizes the purity of the Korean people and their peace-loving spirit. White also reflects the Koreans' traditional affinity for this color. The flag as a whole is symbolic of the ideal of the Korean people to develop forever together with the universe.
The four trigrams that surround the taegeuk circle in the four corners denote the process of yin and yang going through a spiral of change and growth. The three unbroken bars in the upper left-hand corner denote geon(heaven - justice), the three broken bars in the lower right-hand corner denote gon(earth - fertility), the two broken bars with one unbroken bar in the middle in the upper right-hand corner denote gam( water - life), and the two unbroken bars with a broken bar in the middle in the lower left-hand corner denote ri(fire - wisdom). Collectively the Taegeukgi represents universal harmony and unity.
And to show their patriotism to their country the Koreans will recite a pledge which goes like this, “Before this proud Taegeukgi, I firmly pledge my loyalty and will devote my body and soul to the eternal glory of my country and people."
Now that you know the meaning of the flag, do you know how and when it should be flown?
When and How to Fly the Flag
Days on which the Flag is flown

• January 1 - New Year's Day
• March 1 - Independence Movement Day (Anniversary of the IMD in 1919)
• July 17 - Constitution Day
• August 15 - Liberation Day
• October 1 - Armed Forces Day
• October 3 - National Foundation Day
• October 9 - Hangeul Day 
  (The anniversary of the promulgation of the Korean alphabet in 1446)

Other days the government designates as national holidays

• The flag may be flown on days local autonomous governments or provincial or city councils designate as local holidays.
• The flag is flown at half-mast as a sign of mourning on Memorial Day (June 6), during periods of national mourning, and for state or public funerals.

Places Where the Flag is Flown All Year Round

• It is obligatory to fly the flag every day at national and local government offices, public organizations, schools, and military installations.
• It is recommended that the flag be flown at places where international events are held such as hotels, large buildings, and parks where large crowds assemble, along walls of government buildings and anywhere flag polls are installed.
• Private homes and other places may display the national flag all year round if the residents so wish.

Raising and Lowering the Flag

• The flag may be flown 24 hours a day, but if flown at night, it must be illuminated.
• Schools and military units are required to fly the flag only during daylight hours.
• The flag should not be flown if there is any possibility that it might be torn or damaged by wind or rain.

How to Fly the Flag

On national holidays and ordinary days, it should be flown at full-mast.

On days of mourning, it should be flown at half-mast.

When the flag is flown in a line with other flags in threes or
in other odd numbers, it is placed in the center.
 
When the number of flags is even, the flag is flown on the left end as viewed from the front.

* When the flag is flown in Korea together with the U.N. flag and flags of other countries, they should be flown in the following order: the U.N. flag, the Korean flag and flags of other countries in alphabet order. Order of Raising or Lowering the Flag When the flag is flown along with other flags, it should either be raised first or simultaneously with the others. When the flag is lowered with other flags, it should either be lowered last or simultaneously with the others. Safekeeping and Care of the National Flag The flag must be folded with great care and stored in a flag box or other container for safekeeping. Additionally, the box or container must be stored in plain sight and be easily accessible. If the flag is dirtied or wrinkled, it may be washed and ironed but care should be taken to ensure its original form is not distorted. If the flag is damaged or worn out, it should not be discarded casually or used for other purposes; it should be burned in a discreet place. And now we shall go our next topic, the National Anthem of South Korea. Korea's national anthem is called the "Aegukga," which means “The Song of Love for the Country” or "The Patriotic Song." The original words of Aegukga appeared in written form around 1907 to inculcate allegiance to the nation and foster the spirit of independence as the country faced threats of foreign annexation. Over the years, the lyrics went through several changes until they were adopted as the national anthem in the present form in 1948. Before the birth of the Republic in 1948, the words were often sung to the tune of the Scottish folk song, Auld Lang Syne. Maestro Ahn Eak-tay (1905-1965), then living in Spain, felt that it was inappropriate to sing this patriotic song to the tune of another country's folk song. So, he composed new music to go with the lyrics in 1935, and the Korean Provisional Government in exile adopted it as the national anthem. While Koreans outside the country sang the anthem to the new tune, those at home continued to use Auld Lang Syne until Korea was liberated in 1945. At a ceremony celebrating the founding of South Korea on 15 August 1948, the Scottish tune was finally replaced by the Finale of Korea Fantasia that Ahn Eak-tae had composed. The new "Aegukga" was later adopted by the Presidential Decree of 1948 by the then President Syngman Rhee (or Lee Seungman).

And finally the national flower of South Korea. According to records, the Koreans have treasured the rose of Sharon as a heavenly flower since ancient times. In fact, the Silla Kingdom called itself Mugunghwa Country. Even the ancient Chinese referred to Korea as "The land of gentlemen where Mugunghwa blooms." Love for the flower was further heightened when Mugunghwa samcheolli hwaryeo gangsan" ("Rose of Sharon, thousand miles of beautiful mountain and river land!") was written into the national anthem in the late 19th century. As the rose of Sharon has been an important part of the Korean culture for centuries, it was only natural that the government adopted it as the national flower of Korea. There are about 200 cultivars, of which 100 are indigenous to Korea. Of these, the government designated the Dansim, single types of flowers, as the national flower in 1990.

The flower's name in Korean is Mugunghwa meaning 'immortal flower', Koreans call the Rose of Sharon (Botanical name Hibiscus Syriacus L.) the Mugunghwa, as it flowers endlessly. Every year from July to October, a profusion of mugunghwa blossoms graces the entire country. Unlike most flowers, the Mugunghwa is remarkably tenacious and able to withstand both blight and insects. The flower’s symbolic significance stems from the Korean word mugung, meaning immortality. This word accurately reflects the enduring nature of Korean culture, and the determination and perseverance of the Korean people.

Ever heard of the legend of the Mugunghwa? No? Do you want to hear about it? I’m sorry it will have to wait till next time as there's not enough space here. Bye for now.

Special thanks and appreciation to the following:
Photos and articles © courtesy:
http://visitkorea.or.kr/enu/AK/AK_EN_1_4_1.jsp     
http://www.kuksuldo.com/new_page_3.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rose_of_Sharon 
http://prkorea.com/engnews/index.cgi action=detail&number=793&thread=10r01

I’m back!

 

Hi everybody, how are you? Looks like my blog has been left idle for the past 3 months or so. OMG, I didn’t even realize that it was that long. Sorry about that as I was very busy looking after a friend’s restaurant business while she was away visiting her children studying abroad. I was so tired by the time I came home that I just had no inclination to write at all. I tell you the hours are very long, there’s always work to be done. Then when this fried came back, another good friend asked me to go back to my hometown some 250 miles away to keep her mother company, as she would be alone in the house, while this friend and her husband went to visit her-mother in-law in Australia for a month. In a way I was glad, because they had a beautiful house by the sea, so it would be a sort of holiday for me and I needed the rest too after the hectic time I had at the restaurant. But the real reason I wanted to go back was the food. I haven’t been back for quite a while and I was missing all that yummy food I grew up on. I really had a good time meeting up with old friends and the lunch and dinner dates we had. On most days we ended up cooking all our favorite dishes.

I would have come back to work on my blog earlier if not for a big disappointment I suffered. All my friends know how much I wanted to go to Korea. Being a contest buff, I will always enter any contest offering a free trip to Korea as a prize in the hope that I will win it and visit the place that I love so much. In one such contest I came so close to it. I managed to get the 2nd prize, but a miss is as good as a mile. All my friends were congratulating me saying that something was better than nothing. But I was only interested in the free trip to Korea and not the other prizes. How disappointed I was and I couldn’t help feeling a bit depressed. How nice if I had won it, as the trip would be during the autumn with all the colorful red and gold autumn leaves. It has always been my wish to visit Korea in the autumn.This depressed mood gave me an excuse to work in my garden. Some of my plants had suffered during my absence and some had even died. So I began to repot the plants that were spared.and within 2 weeks my garden became alive again, with the flowers blooming everywhere. Gardening   proved  good therapy  for my depression.  One night I was reading my scrapbook collection of quotations when I came across this one “Things always happen for a reason.” That jolted me out of my reverie instantly. Yes, I was thinking, there must be a reason why God didn’t want me to go to Korea at this time. All negative thoughts began to flood my mind.

I told myself, I had to put an end to my procrastination. So today, I literally forced myself to sit at my computer table and start typing on the keyboard. Like they say, it’s now or never! I only hope that I can manage to come up with something. If you don’t see this being published then you’ll know that I’ve failed. Anyway, today I won’t be writing anything about Korea, this is just a warm-up, so to speak, and to get back on my feet once again.

All of us who are blogging about Korea and all things Korean have one thing in common, and that is our passion for Korea. What do you readers love about Korea? I love Korea for many reasons, its beautiful scenery, Its wonderful shopping, Its k-drama and k-pop. But most of all I love Korea for its rich heritage and culture which comes with an outstanding 5,000 year old history, I have always been interested In history since my school days and that is why I love watching period/costume dramas be it Korean or otherwise. So I was thinking that why don’t I write about all these things that I love so much. Do you think that it might be too boring to those of you who are not too keen on this? I hope that you all can share my enthusiasm for all things cultural and historical. Mind you culture can mean a lot of things like Hangeul, Hanbok, Hanok, Hanji, Hansik, Hanguk-Eumak, Korean Food and the UNESCO WORLD Cultural Heritage. Yes, I think I shall enjoy that much better than writing about pop-stars and pop-music, I shall leave that to the younger generation to do that. History can be fun really, I’ll try not to be too boring. So please bear with me and keep the feedback coming so that I know if you all enjoy it or not.. I guess that’s about all for now. So hope to see you all again soon.

Why the Silence?

You must be wondering what happened to me as I haven’t posted anything new since April 8 (almost 3 month now.) I had actually thought of giving up blogging. You see I was so pissed off because I fell for a scam and I was cheated of some money.

So today, I want to tell you all about it so that you won’t go through the same experience I had. I wonder if you have come across or heard about “Windows Recovery” which is a fake disk defragmenter that displays fake error messages and pop-ups to make you think that your computer has some serious hard drive problems. The rogue program prompts to pay for a full version of the program to fix the errors. If you choose to purchase this bogus program, you will lose your money and give your credit card details to the scammers who created this malware. I wish I had known about this before I purchased it.

You see, one morning I woke up to find that I could not startup my computer, no matter what I tried to do. There were error messages displayed on my computer screen which could not be removed and I was advised to buy the “Windows Recovery” program in order to fix my problem. I had no idea it was a scam as it looked like a genuine windows program. My new post on my blog was due and I wanted a quick solution to the problem I was having, so I like a fool, fell for it and purchased it.

After that this message was what appeared on my computer screen. So I was quite happy about it. How was I to know that it will be short-lived.

I only realized my mistake a few days later when I could not locate this “Windows Recovery” program that I had purchased on my PC. It had just disappeared. The customer care website that they provided turned out to be non existent.Then only did it occur to me, to do a search on “Windows Recovery” where  I discovered too late that I had been conned.

From what I found out, it seems that “Windows Recovery” enters the system via Trojans, infected websites and fake online scanners. The program runs system scanner and later on reports critical errors detected on your system. It warns you that some of your private data might be lost because of the lack of free space, RAM memory usage, etc. The truth is that it is fake information and Windows Recovery only wants you to believe your system is infected. Windows Recovery will offer you purchasing a full version of its program with a promise that this will fix everything. However, its real intention is to receive your money, but in return you won’t get anything. So my friends, if you do come across this program, please remember, this is a scam to cheat you and you’ll only part with your money if you believe in what they say. do not fall for it but immediately do a search on “Windows Recovery” where you can get instructions on how to remove this program. Quickly remove it and you’ll be safe.

Now that I have got this off my chest, I think I’m ready to start blogging again. So for today, I’ll just stop here and hope to post something new in the next few days. Thank you for stopping by, see you again soon!

Korean Etiquette & Table Manners

Looks like I’m late again with my blog post, the same old excuse I’m afraid. I’ve been busy watching Korean dramas again. That’s the only pleasure I get these days I guess. Like in many Eastern cultures, politeness and proper etiquette are very important in Korean culture. So thought I’d tell you something about it today.
But before I go into it, I would like to introduce you to the Korean word “kibun” which has no exact English translation to it; and the closest terms to describe it, are pride, face, mood, feelings, or state of mind. For example, if you hurt someone's kibun, it means that you have hurt his pride, which will cause him to lose his dignity and probably lose face. Korean interpersonal relationships operate on the principle of harmony so it is important to maintain a peaceful and comfortable atmosphere at all times. Thus 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. In business, a manager's kibun is hurt if his subordinates do not show him proper respect while a subordinate's kibun is hurt if his manager criticizes him in public.
To be able to judge another person's state of mind is essential in order not to hurt the person's kibun. The ability to determine another person's kibun by using the eye is known as “nunchi”. This can be accomplished by watching the body language and listening to the tone of voice as well as what is being said. As long as you keep these two things in mind, you will never embarrass your Korean friends and neither will you  embarrass yourself.
So let’s start with the introductions first.

Meeting and Greeting
The bow is the traditional Korean greeting, although it is often accompanied by a handshake among men. To show respect when shaking hands, support your right forearm with your left hand.
Korean women usually nod slightly and will not shake hands with Western men. Western women may offer their hand to a Korean man.
Bow when departing. Younger people wave (move their arm from side to side).

Names and Titles
It is considered very impolite to address a Korean with his or her given name. Address Koreans using appropriate professional titles until specifically invited by your host or colleagues to use their given names.
Americans should address a Korean with Mr., Mrs., Miss + family name; however, never address a high-ranking person or superior in this manner.
Korean names are the opposite of Western names with the family name first, followed by the two-part given name. The first of the two given names is shared by everyone of the same generation in the family, and the second is the individual's given name. Example: Lee (Family) + Dong (Shared Given) + Sung (Given). Dong Sung is the individual's given name. Address him as Mr. Lee or Lee Sonsaengnim (which means "teacher").
Koreans consider it a personal violation to be touched by someone who is not a relative or close friend. Avoid touching, patting or back slapping a Korean.
Direct eye contact between junior and senior businesspeople should be avoided. This is seen as impolite or even as a challenge.
Do not cross your legs or stretch your legs out straight in front of you. Keep your feet on the floor, never on a desk or chair.
Always pass and receive objects with your right hand (supported by the left hand at the wrist or forearm) or with two hands.
To beckon someone, extend your arm, palm down, and move your fingers in a scratching motion. Never point with your index finger.

• 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."
• Information about the other person will be given to the person they are being introduced to in advance of the actual meeting.
• Wait to be introduced at a social gathering.
• When you leave a social gathering, say good-bye and bow to each person individually.

Different cultures follow different rules for table manners. Korean table manners are generally governed by respect where respecting elders is one of the most important rules.
Koreans usually eat rice, soup, with three to four side dishes, and sometimes more, so a typical Korean table setting would consist of a bowl of rice, a soup bowl, a spoon and chopsticks, which are arranged from left to right, in that order, for each person. Korean meals are not usually served in courses.
Stews and side dishes are placed in the center to be shared by all members. Koreans generally believe that sharing food from one bowl makes a relationship closer, but if one feels uncomfortable with sharing the one-for-all dishes, it is okay to ask for an individual bowl or plate. Today many Korean restaurants naturally provide individual bowls and plates.
Since ancient times, Koreans have used a spoon to eat the rice, soup and stews while chopsticks were used to eat the rather dry side dishes. Koreans have been trained to use the spoon and the chopsticks correctly from childhood. Using both of these utensils at the same time is considered to display bad manners.
Koreans often say no when asked to have a second helping, even if he would like to do so. It is polite etiquette to decline the first invitation for a second helping. Your host will then keep on insisting that you take a second helping, and only then is it considered alright to accept it. Of course, you can politely decline if you are already full.
 
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Dining and Entertainment
Sharing a dinner is vital to building friendships that foster trust. Your business success is directly related to your social relationships.
Do not pour your own drink, but do offer to pour others'. It is common to trade and fill each other's cup. To refuse is an insult. Women pour men's drinks, but never another woman's drink. A woman may pour her own drink. Leave some drink in your glass if you don't want a refill.
Wherever you see a "No Tipping" sign, do not tip. Koreans find tipping offensive, although tipping is now becoming expected in Western hotels. 
Koreans do not like to talk a lot during dinner. Periods of silence are common and appreciated at a dinner. The meal usually comes before socializing at a dinner party.
It is polite to pass or accept food or drink with your right hand while your left hand supports your forearm/wrist.
The person who invites pays the bill for everyone. However, it is polite to offer to pay. When two people are dining, usually the younger person pays for the older person.
Prepare to sing a solo number after dinner, no matter what kind of voice you have. Any song is acceptable, as long as you sing with spirit.
After dinner, the host may invite his guests to go drinking. Don't refuse this invitation.
Following are the dos and don’ts at the Korean dinner table.

If you are invited to a South Korean's house:

• It is common for guests to meet at a common spot and travel together.
• You may arrive up to 30 minutes late without giving offence.
• It is customary to bring a gift for the hostess.
• Remove your shoes before entering the house.
• The host greets each guest individually. 
• The host pours drinks for the guests in their presence. The hostess does not pour drinks.
• Always allow your host to seat you. The seat of honor is the seat looking at the front door. If you are seated in the seat of honor, it is polite to protest slightly.
• Before you eat, especially at someone's home, it's polite to say that you are looking forward to the meal. Jalmukesumneda (I will eat well) and it is customary to acknowledge your thanks after the meal.  Masegaemugusuyo (I ate well).
• 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. 
• Send a thank you note the following day after being invited to dinner.

And if you are at a restaurant or a house guest, the same rules apply

• Wait for the elderly people at the table to start eating first before you do so, no matter how hungry you may be. Older people are highly regarded in Korean culture and eating before them is considered impolite.
• At first, taste soup, and then try the rice or other dishes. Use spoon for rice and liquid foods, such as stews or soups; use chopsticks for other foods.
• Do not pick out what you don't like or shake off seasonings.
• Hold your chopsticks and spoon one at a time. Never hold both at the same time.
• When using chopsticks, the spoon is rested on the table. The spoon and chopsticks should not rest on any bowl or dish during the meal.
• Never point with your chopsticks when you speak.
• Don't stick your chopsticks straight up into your bowl because that resembles traditional Korean ancestral ceremonies.
• Chopsticks should be returned to the table after every few bites and when you drink or stop to speak.
• Do not cross your chopsticks when putting them on the chopstick rest.
• Unlike in China and Japan, Koreans do not hold their bowls or plates in the palm of their hands while eating.
• Do not leave the table while eating unless you need to go to the restroom very badly.
• Do not read a book or newspaper or watch TV while eating.
• Do not reach across the table for distant food - ask a nearby person to pass it to you.
• Eat as quietly as possible. Making a lot of noise while chewing is frowned upon, as is making excessive sounds with your cutlery.
• It's not good manners to eat faster or slower than others, so try to keep pace with the other people around you by eating not too fast or too slow.
• Try to maintain an upright posture when eating and bring the food to your mouth rather than leaning forward to take a bite.
• Don't take so much food that you can't finish, as that is considered wasteful.
• Try a little bit of everything. It is acceptable to ask what something is.
• Refuse the first offer of second helpings.
• Finish everything on your plate.
• Bones and shells should be put on an extra plate.
• If someone senior to you is extending you a drink, you should accept it with both your hands cupped on the glass. More importantly, you are expected to drink with your head turned sideways, away from your senior.
• When you pour for someone senior to you, place your other hand lightly under your pouring hand or under your opposite elbow.
• Ensure that you keep the glasses of your seniors always full; a good way of being in their good books.
• Indicate you have finished eating by placing your chopsticks on the chopstick rest or on the table. Never place them parallel across your rice bowl. You can put the napkin back on the table loosely folded.
• Wait to leave the table until after the oldest person at the table has left his seat. Then you may follow. It is considered rude if one leaves the table before the elder finishes. Staying put until the oldest person is finished is considered a basic concept of Korean table manners.
• If you have to cough or sneeze at the table, turn completely away from the table and cover your mouth.
• It's acceptable table manners to use a toothpick, but you must cover your mouth so others cannot see. Be sure to throw away the toothpick discreetly.
• If you happen to finish your meal before one or more of the elderly people at the table, refrain from resetting your place setting, and just leave your spoon in the rice bowl until the others have finished.
• Always follow the example of the host or of other native Koreans at your table if you are confused about how to eat a specific Korean dish.
• Do not pick up food with your hands. Fruit should be speared with a toothpick. 

Gift giving is very common in Korea. Offer and receive a gift with both hands. Wrapped gifts are never opened in the presence of the giver.
Reciprocate with a gift of similar value when receiving a gift from your Korean colleague. Koreans like regional United States gifts and Indian/Western artifacts.
Wrap your gift nicely. Bright colors are preferred for wrapping gifts. Yellow and red or green stripes are a traditional Korean wrapping paper design. Avoid wrapping gifts in dark colors. Always bring a small gift for the hostess when invited to someone's home. Give: small gift, candy, cakes, cookies, flowers, fruit. Do not give liquor to a woman.
It is common to exchange gifts at the first business meeting. Allow the host to present his gift first.
Give: liquor (good quality scotch), fruit, desk accessories, small mementos, gifts from France or Italy (which often indicate status).


Gift Giving Etiquette

• Gifts express a great deal about a relationship and are always reciprocated.
• Do not give too expensive gifts (Koreans will feel obligated to reciprocate with a gift of equal value), knives or scissors (they signify "cutting off" a relationship), green headwear, gifts with red writing (denotes death) or gifts in a set of four (denotes death).
• Bring fruit or good quality chocolates or flowers if invited to a Korean's home.
• Gifts should be wrapped nicely.
• Giving 7 of an item is considered lucky.
• Do not wrap gifts in green, white, or black paper.
• Do not sign a card in red ink.
• Use both hands when offering a gift.
• Gifts are not opened when received.

Corporate Culture
Koreans expect Westerners to be punctual for social occasions and business meetings. Call if you will be delayed. However, you may be kept waiting up to a half hour. This is not a sign of disrespect, but reflects the pressure of time on Korean executives.
Professionals meeting for the first time usually exchange business cards. Present your card and receive your colleague's card with both hands.
Building trust and relationships is vital to establishing a successful business relationship. This requires patience. Koreans prefer to do business with people they know.
The first meeting is to establish trust, so business should not be discussed. Be formal in meetings until the Korean delegation loosens up.
Negotiations are generally long and require several trips. Be prepared for business meetings to go well beyond business hours.
Koreans generally start negotiations at an unreasonable position and prepare to compromise. Koreans are tough negotiators and admire a firm, persistent negotiator, but refrain from being too aggressive.
A low, deep bow from Koreans at the end of a meeting indicates a successful meeting. A quick, short parting bow could mean dissatisfaction with meetings. Send a meeting review outlining all discussions and agreements to your Korean counterpart after you leave Korea. Make several visits during negotiations and after business is established.
"Yes" is not necessarily “yes.” Koreans avoid saying "no." Try to phrase questions in a manner that doesn't require a "yes" or "no" answer. Example: Instead of saying "Could we sign the agreement by next Friday?” say "When is the earliest date that we could expect to sign this agreement?"
And this is for the women.Foreign women may have difficulty doing business in Korea. Although women are becoming more accepted in the Korean business place, Korean men generally prefer to negotiate with men.
Korean women seldom shake hands. A Western woman can offer her hand to a Korean man, but should not to a Korean woman.
Foreign businesswomen should always act elegant, refined and very "feminine.” Laughing and loud talking are frowned upon.
Generally, women wait for Korean men to make the first move.

• South Koreans prefer to do business with people with whom they have a personal connection.
• It is therefore crucial to be introduced by a third-party.
• Relationships are developed through informal social gatherings that often involve a considerable amount of drinking and eating.
• Individuals who have established mutual trust and respect will work hard to make each other successful.
• South Koreans treat legal documents as memorandums of understanding.
• They view contracts as loosely structured consensus statements that broadly define agreement and leave room for flexibility and adjustment as needed.
• Under no circumstances insult or criticize in front of others.
• Sensitive matters may often be raised indirectly through the intermediary that first made the introductions.
• South Koreans are extremely direct communicators. They are not averse to asking questions if they do not understand what has been said or need additional clarification.
• This is a culture where "less is more" when communicating. Respond to questions directly and concisely.
• Since there is a tendency to say "yes" to questions so that you do not lose face, the way you phrase a question is crucial. It is better to ask, "When can we expect shipment?" than "Can we expect shipment in 3 weeks?", since this question requires a direct response.

Business Meeting Etiquette

• Appointments are required and should be made 3 to 4 weeks in advance.
• You should arrive on time for meetings as this demonstrates respect for the person you are meeting.
• The most senior South Korean generally enters the room first.
• It is a good idea to send both an agenda and back-up material including information about your company and client testimonials prior to the meeting.
• The main purpose of the first meeting is to get to know each other.
• Meetings are used to understand a client's needs and challenges. They lay the foundation for building the relationship.
• Do not remove your jacket unless the most senior South Korean does so.
• Have all written materials available in both English and Korean.

Business Cards

• Business cards are exchanged after the initial introductions in a highly ritualized manner.
• The way you treat someone's business card is indicative of the way you will treat the person.
• Have one side of your business card translated into Korean.
• Using both hands, present your business card with the Korean side facing up so that it is readable by the recipient.
• Examine any business card you receive carefully.
• Put the business cards in a business card case or a portfolio.
• Never write on someone's business card in their presence.

Dress Etiquette

• Business attire is conservative.
• Men should wear dark- colored, conservative business suits with white shirts.
• Women should dress conservatively and wear subdued colors.
• Men should avoid wearing jewelry other than a watch or a wedding ring.

And now a few helpful tips:-
Never use words like "fellow," "guy," "this man" or "that man." This is considered demeaning.
Expect Koreans to ask personal questions. This is viewed as showing a polite interest in your life.
Deny a compliment. Don't say "thank you." It is impolite and shows a lack of humility.
Never expect Koreans to admit to not knowing an answer when questioned. They may give an incorrect answer or an answer they think you would like to hear to make you feel good or to save face.
Don't talk about Koreans or their customs or culture within earshot of a Korean, even if you are saying good things. Do not talk about politics.
So there you are, I think you should be able to survive with these tips I’ve given you today. So  see you again next time.


Special thanks and appreciation to the following
Photos and articles © courtesy:
www.lifeinkorea.com/food/f-manners.cfm
www.kwintessential.co.uk/
http://www.ediplomat.com/np/cultural_etiquette/ce_kr.htm

The Thought of BYJ Getting Married!

 

First and foremost, I would like to apologize for changing my theme for today’s topic. As you all know, I’m an avid fan of Bae Yong Joon and there’s some hot news going around about him which I feel I have to write about urgently.

The news that Bae Yong Joon recently purchased a house for himself in Seongbuk-dong, the residential area for the rich and famous, has gained much public attention. Why? Because BYJ has never ever bought a house before, not that he couldn’t afford it but perhaps he never felt the need for it. All this while he has been leasing the houses where he has stayed in. So naturally with this move, everybody’s busy speculating that he’s going to get married soon.

It didn’t take long for the rumors to start flying on the internet that BYJ will be getting married to Lee Na-young in April. Some even suggested that they had already got married.

When I saw the articles, I was really shocked. How could BYJ do that to us, his fans, “his family” the endearing term he coined whenever he spoke of us. He distinctly made us a promise that we would be the first to know if he planned on getting married. How relieved I felt when it was denied by both parties.

Here’s the article as sourced from english.kbs.co.kr... ( English ) 2011/03/02

Bae Yong-joon and Lee Na-young NOT Getting Married

As the rumors surrounding actor Bae Yong-joon and actress Lee Na-young getting married have been getting harder to ignore, both stars' entertainment agency have spoken up. And the verdict? The rumors are groundless.
Yang Geun-hwan, a representative of KEYEAST Entertainment, reported to Star News, "The wedding rumors are groundless. This rumor circled Korea a bit in the past, and now it seems to have reached Japan. However, it's just a rumor that got out of hand; no truth to it at all". According to the recent rumors, Bae and Lee were set to get married this April.
Bae had even addressed similar rumors directly, denying them vehemently, last year. He explained that it was strange that the rumors started in the first place, because Lee played Bae's younger sister in the drama that they acted in together, "Did We Really Love".

I think there is nothing wrong if BYJ wants to get married, in fact, it’s only natural. But some people marry early in life whilst others later in life. I think it's about time he settled down with a woman whom he can love and raise a proper family. He is at the pinnacle of his life, with a string of success stories to his name. But there’s one thing still lacking in his life! Yes, what’s the use of all this vast empire of his, if he has to come home to an empty house? By empty, I do not mean devoid of material things, but not be surrounded with love showered by a loving wife and children who will wait to greet him welcome the moment he steps into the house. After a hard day’s work, the man of the house should be entitled to a bit of pampering from a loving wife, don’t you think so? He deserves to be happy, after all he has done to make us all happy.

It’s also the Korean custom that the eldest son in the family take care of his parents in their old age. I don’t know if he is the elder of the two children but he being the only son, qualifies him to be the one to take care of his parents I think.

We, his fans, must not be selfish and demand that he remain single for the rest of his life. We must stand by him, no matter whom he chooses to be the love of his life and be his wife. We only ask that the woman he marries will be an understanding person who will allow him to share a part of his life with us, his dearest fans from all over the world.

Whoever that lucky girl may be, I hope that they have dated and had the chance to discover each other. Marriage is a lifetime thing and should be given much thought and consideration before going into it. Whatever his decision, I'm sure God will be with him and He knows what is best for him. So let's wish BYJ Good Luck and God Bless.

I know many of his fans may not want him to get married...you know, fans usually tend to lose interest once their idols get married. As for me I will be happy for him, that he has found someone to share his life with for the rest of his life. I will still be his greatest fan like before. Nothing will ever change my love for him. BYJ, thank you for bringing some happiness into my life. The person who marries him will be very lucky indeed. God bless you both!