"Did I just make a mistake without knowing it?""Why does it feel like everyone’s watching me?"

👉 If you're living or working in Korea,there might be a few cultural moments that surprise or confuse you at first!

But don't worry—understanding these small differences will help you feel more at homeand get closer to your Korean coworkers and friends 😊

1️⃣ Age & Titles Matter (A Lot!)

• In Korea, age determines how you speak to someone

• It’s totally normal to ask, “How old are you?” when you first meet

• Instead of calling people by name, titles like “Manager,” “Team Lead,” or “Sunbae” (senior) are used

• People often use family-style terms like Oppa (older brother), Unni (older sister), Hyung, and Noona!

🔹 Tip: Start with polite/formal language until you know the right tone!

2️⃣ Using Spoon & Chopsticks Together

• Koreans use chopsticks for side dishes and spoons for soup and rice

• It’s common to use both hands while eating

• Also, don’t rest your spoon on the bowl—it’s seen as poor table manners

🔹 Tip: Don’t worry! Just watch others and copy what they do—it’s okay to learn slowly.

3️⃣ Company Dinners (Hoesik) & Drinking Culture

• Many companies host group dinners called Hoesik

• Alcohol is often involved, and it’s polite for a senior to pour your drink

• These days, it’s perfectly fine to say “I don’t drink” politely

🔹 Tip: When someone offers a drink, use two hands to accept the glass—it's a sign of respect!

4️⃣ Group Over Individual Mindset

• In public spaces like cafes or elevators, silence is normal

• But at school or work, group activities matter—like eating lunch together or joining group chats

• Leaving work alone when others are still there might feel a bit awkward

🔹 Tip: Try joining group moments now and then—it can help relationships grow faster!

5️⃣ “Reading the Room” (Nunchi Culture)

• Korea has a concept called Nunchi: reading the mood without it being said

• Examples: not leaving a meeting before your boss, waiting for others to start eating

• It can be confusing, especially with no clear rules

🔹 Tip: If you're unsure, it’s okay to ask: “Is it okay if I leave now?” Koreans appreciate honesty!

👨‍💼 Real Example

👩 Aisha (26, Uzbekistan) attended a company dinner.When an older colleague poured her a drink, she accepted it with one hand.A coworker quietly said, “In Korea, it’s polite to use two hands.”She was surprised—but grateful to learn, and now feels much more comfortable with Korean customs 😊

❓ FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Will I get in trouble for making cultural mistakes?👉 Not at all! Most Koreans are very understanding—especially toward foreigners.They appreciate it when you try to learn and respect the culture.

Q. Is it rude to decline alcohol?👉 Not anymore. These days, people respect your choice.Just say “I don’t drink” politely, and it’s totally fine.

Q. Do I need to be super formal all the time?👉 Not necessarily! Just start with polite speech and basic respect—that’s enough.No need to overthink it 😊

✅ Summary

• Age, titles, group culture, and unspoken rules (Nunchi) are part of Korean daily life

• Don't worry—just learn step by step

• Making mistakes is okay! What matters is your attitude 💕

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Take your time to understand Korean culture,and enjoy building a more comfortable and joyful life in Korea! 🙌🇰🇷💼