SeoulSurfin'

Seoul’s Unique Culture

Academics

• From my own experience in Korean University, as soon as the professor arrives in the classroom, everyone goes silent to show they are ready for class
• Students are constantly brushing their teeth
  • They bring their toothbrushes to class and cafeteria

Transportation

• On the train, there are designated seats for the elderly, disabled, etc usually with signs or a different colored seat
• Will need a T-Money card for train, buses, etc..
  • Ticket kiosk at convenience store or at subway
  • When going through the gate for the train, the scanner is quick so tap and go
    • Learned through experience so don’t leave card on or else your money will be gone
• No talking on transportation
  • If need to, keep it to a whisper

General

• Take shoes off in entrance of house
• Appearance is important
  • Koreans dress up more than Americans even for a normal day
• Seoul is VERY VERY hilly with thousands of stairs
• It is hard for Koreans to open up to foreigners, but once they do they are super nice and welcoming
• Convenience Stores everywhere which as food, first aid, school supplies, etc. and are open 24/7
• Have cash always on hand to recharge T-money or give to street vendors
• Need to experience a karaoke room at least once while in Korea
• 빨리 빨리 culture meaning there is no time to slow down
  • You need to move quickly
• When giving or receiving something, always present two hands as a sign of respect
• It is very hard to find trash bins on street, so hold onto it
  • There are usually bins for trash 쓰레기, recycle, cans, etc. in convenience stores
  • If you got from vendors, such as Myeongdong Night Market, give back the container to the seller when done
• Bring an umbrella for when it rains
  • Many Koreans also use an umbrella when it is sunny for shade

Eating

• When ordering at restaurant, there is usually a bell at the table to call a waiter
• No tipping culture
• Most restaurants or cafes have free water stations if you get thirsty