In Korea, drinking etiquette—주도 (酒道)—isn’t just a set of rules; it’s a window into the nation’s soul. This intricate ritual weaves together the cultural threads of respect, hierarchy, and community, turning every sip into a…

A Nation Transformed : The Birth of Structured Waste Management Following Korea’s remarkable development from the 1950s to the 1980s, the nation faced significant waste management challenges driven by rapid urbanization and industrialization. Recognizing the…

The Intersection of Class and Military Culture in South Korea In January 2024, YouTuber Mark Manson made waves by describing South Korea as the 'most depressed country in the world'—a sentiment that may strike a…

Koreans Obsessed Over Appearance If you’ve ever shown an interest in Korea, you’ve probably come across discussions about the Korean focus on appearance. It’s one of the most common topics that frequently comes up among…

Surprising Safety Norms One of my former colleagues, who has been living in Seoul for about eight years after moving from Paris, finds it astonishing that Korean women often walk around holding their wallets during…

Friends and Family Play Cupid in Korea Even though many Koreans believe in destiny, they don’t leave their love lives entirely to chance. They put in the effort to ensure they’re meeting “verified” individuals. In…