South Korea is renowned for its pioneering beauty industry, but some of the beauty standards might come across as amusing to outsiders. One notable example is the “aegyo-sal,” which is not what you might think. The term refers to the small pouch of fat under the eyes that is considered a sign of youthfulness and beauty. Far from trying to hide their under-eye bags, many Koreans emphasize them using makeup or even turn to cosmetic procedures to make them more pronounced.
Male Makeup: In South Korea, makeup isn’t just for women. It’s quite common and socially acceptable for men to use cosmetic products like BB cream, lip balm, and even eyebrow pencils. This trend is powered by the influence of K-pop stars and actors who often appear on camera with flawless, made-up skin.
Intense Skincare Routines: South Koreans take their skincare seriously, with routines that can include up to 10 steps or more, twice a day. These steps might include oil cleansers, water-based cleansers, toners, essences, serums, moisturizers, and sunscreen—all designed to ensure the skin is as healthy and clear as possible.
In South Korea, the number four is often associated with bad luck because it sounds similar to the word for “death” in Korean. As a result, it’s not unusual to find buildings that skip the fourth floor, similar to the omission of the 13th floor in some Western countries. Elevators will mark the fourth floor as “F” or simply skip from the third to the fifth floor.
Fear of Electric Fans: A uniquely Korean superstition is the fear of sleeping in a room with an electric fan running. The belief is that if a fan is left on overnight in a closed room, it can cause death. This phenomenon, known as “fan death,” is taken so seriously that many fans are sold with timers to ensure they turn off after a certain period.
South Korea’s work culture can be surprising to outsiders, especially those from countries with a more laid-back approach to office life. The typical Korean office worker is no stranger to long hours, often accompanied by after-work drinking sessions known as “hwaeshik,” which are considered a part of one’s job duties.
Matching Outfits: It’s common for Korean companies to provide uniforms or even mandate specific color schemes for employees. This practice fosters a sense of unity and belonging among team members.
Noisy Office Spaces: Unlike the hushed tones often observed in Western offices, Korean workplaces are bustling with activity and noise. The sound of conversations, phone calls, and even the occasional shouting match are considered normal and a sign of a lively, productive work environment.
South Korean cuisine goes far beyond kimchi and BBQ. Some of the local dishes might be considered quirky by foreign palates but are beloved staples in Korea.
Beondegi: Steamed or boiled silkworm pupae, which are served as a snack in street markets. The taste is described as nutty, and it’s praised for its high protein content.
Live Octopus (Sannakji): This dish involves a small octopus that is cut into pieces while still alive and served immediately, usually lightly seasoned with sesame oil and seeds. It’s not for the faint of heart, as the tentacles are still moving when the dish is served.
Chicken and Beer (Chimaek): This combo might not seem so odd, but it’s the obsession with it in Korea that’s amusing. There’s even an entire festival dedicated to chicken and beer, celebrated with enthusiasm across the country.
South Korea’s reputation as a tech powerhouse is not unfounded. The country boasts some of the fastest internet speeds in the world and has a high level of technological integration into daily life, which can sometimes be surprising or amusing.
Robotic Helpers: From robot baristas serving up your morning coffee to robot cleaners in malls, automation is big in South Korea. These robotic innovations are often found in public spaces, enhancing convenience and efficiency.
Virtual Grocery Shopping: Imagine doing your grocery shopping while waiting for the subway. In South Korea, virtual grocery stores are a reality. Digital screens in subway stations allow commuters to purchase groceries by scanning QR codes, with goods delivered to their doorsteps by the time they get home.
Education in South Korea is taken very seriously, with children’s academic success often seen as a top priority. This can lead to some intense and, to outsiders, amusing situations.
Study Rooms: “Goshiwon” or tiny rooms rented out to students preparing for exams, are a common sight in cities. These rooms, often no larger than a closet, are equipped with just enough space for a desk and a bed.
Robot Teachers: In some classrooms, robots are used to help teach English to children, interacting with them and providing practice in speaking and listening. This innovative approach to education is both amusing and a testament to South Korea’s commitment to integrating technology into education.
Living in South Korea is a unique experience that blends tradition with cutting-edge technology, creating a society that is vibrant, dynamic, and occasionally quirky. Whether it’s beauty standards, work culture, or culinary habits, South Korea offers a plethora of amusing and interesting practices that make it a fascinating country to explore.
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