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The Korean flag is called T'aegukki. It is made up of a red and blue circle surrounded by four sets of trigrams (called Kwae) on a white background. While the white background represents peace and purity, the circle symbolizes the harmony and balance of yin and yang, and the four sets of trigrams symbolize heaven, earth, fire, and water. The red upper part of the circle (yang) suggests the sun, fire, light, and masculinity while the blue lower part (yin) represents the moon, water, darkness, and femininity.
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The national flower of Korea is the mugunghwa also known as the Rose of Sharon or hibiscus. These hardy flowers bloom in abundance every year from June to October. Mugunghwa's root word "mugung" means immortality and the flower represents the perseverance and determination of the Korean people.
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Korea, whose history dates back to 2333BC, is located on a peninsula to the south of Russia and China and is separated from Japan by the East Sea. Korea's dramatic landscape features rocky cliffs, wide sandy beaches, and about 70% of the country is mountainous. Seoul, situated on the Hangang river, is the capital of South Korea and is home to over 12 million people. Seoul is a vibrant city with a wide choice of performing arts, nightclubs, cafes, shops, and restaurants. Koreans are keen hikers and climbers as well as enjoying skiing and white water rafting in the mountains. They also enjoy snorkeling, diving, beach lounging, and windsurfing by the sea.
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All Koreans speak and write the same language which is easy to learn. The character system, called "Hangul", was developed in the 15th Century and is totally different to Chinese and Japanese. It is a simple phonetic alphabet made up of 10 vowels and 14 consonants which is very comprehensive and easy to write. Korea's high literacy rate and advanced publication industry can be attributed to "Hangul".
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Koreans are believed to be descendants of several Mongol tribes that migrated onto the Korean Peninsula from Central Asia. They share one ethnic family and one language. Korea is a modern and dynamic country. Its highly educated society ensures a high standard of living conditions and a share of the best from western society combined with traditional Korean ideas and Asian culture.
In the postwar period, Korea was freed from Japanese rule, but the country was soon divided into two separate states, North and South, strongly opposed to each other. Since the end of the Korean War the Korean Peninsula has been governed by the Republic of Korea in the South and the Democratic People's Republic in the North.
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The traditional Korean meal is heavily seasoned and spicy. It is a vegetable-based cuisine made up of a bowl of rice, soup, and many side dishes. Side dishes include kimchi (always), vegetables cooked in different styles, boiled dishes flavored with soy sauce, grilled or pan fried meat or fish and raw fish or seafood. Koreans have a sweet tooth and, among the usual desserts, they enjoy traditional rice cakes and sweets made of rice flour and honey, wheat gluten, sesame oil or sugar. During special occasions such as Solnal (New Year), Chusok (Korean Thanksgiving) and ancestral memorial days, Koreans also celebrate with special meals. The importance of food to Koreans is such that it even appears in common Korean greetings such as Shik Sa Ha Syeoss Ship Nee Ka or more aptly "have you eaten?".
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In today's contemporary society, Koreans have chosen to retain their traditional clothing and, although only worn on special occasions, it is indicative of the Korean's respect and appreciation of their history, culture, and traditions. The traditional Korean outfit, the "Hanbok" dates back to 37BC and has two parts: a top and pants or a skirt. Outfits are loose and comfortable, allowing for easy movement during work and for retaining heat during cold winters. Their looseness is also suited to Korea's floor sitting culture. Korea's traditional dress covers the whole body - a style that is reflective of the Korean's value for modesty. Historically the color of a person's clothing reflected what social class they belonged to.
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Today religious freedom is guaranteed by the Constitution of the Republic of Korea. Of the 300 or so registered religions, the once dominant Buddhism and Confucianism have shaped both the way of life and the attitudes of Koreans, but it is Christianity that has subsequently developed a vast following since its introduction in the late 18th century, building Korea into a primarily Catholic nation.
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In Korea given names are usually two characters, almost always hyphenated in romanization, leaving only a few hyphenated last names. Generally the single character name is the surname and the hyphenated one is the given name. An individual's place in the social or family hierarchy is reinforced by their respective titles. For example, brothers and sisters call each other by different names depending on their sex and rank in the family, whilst maternal aunts and uncles have different titles from paternal ones.
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Koreans care greatly about education and illiteracy is almost non-existent. This desire to learn originates in the age-old principles of scholarly Confucianism; consequently great value is placed on a college education, which is the most important factor in deciding one's career. Another reason for high literacy rates is the fact that parents will do anything to ensure their children's success and happiness. Korean parents are happy to invest in private academies (Hagwons) to enhance a government school education.
Children begin their education at the age of six. They attend elementary school for six years, middle school for three years and then high school for three years. Students may then attend university for four years followed by graduate schools. The system also includes two year junior college courses and nursery schools.
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Korea is an easygoing country but, like many, it has its own social norms. When doing business with Koreans there are rules that should be followed to avoid committing any blunders, all the while keeping in mind what to do to make a working relationship more productive. Here are a few tips.
Business
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Respect for elders is very important for Koreans. If your business counterpart is older than you, avoid smoking or crossing your legs in front of him (or her).
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Sit up straight in meetings. When standing, don't place your hands in your pockets.
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When engaged in conversation, lengthy direct eye contact could be thought to be rude.
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When greeting someone, shake hands and bow slightly.
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In business, Koreans usually do not talk about money at the beginning of discussions.
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Do not refer to a person by their given name unless specifically invited to. Use their official work or marital title. At work, people usually go by their surname and their work title. For example: President Chang (Chang Sajangnim), Director Kim (Kim Wonjangnim), etc.
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Dining
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When food is offered take at least a small amount, since refusing food or drink can be a problem. When a guest leaves food uneaten, Koreans think that it is their fault.
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You'll score lots of points if you eat kimchi and other Korean foods with relish.
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Clothing
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Women should dress conservatively.
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Behavior
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Women should always behave discreetly and not laugh loudly.
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Always remove your shoes as you enter someone's home. This rule also applies to traditional restaurants and temples, although more and more places are developing the tendency to not do so.
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