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MILA SHIN in South Korea
Published Date
09 February 2010
Home Town in SA
Cape Town
Now Living in
Korea
Occupation
English teacher
Best Thing About the Country?
South Korea is extremely safe and the infrastructure is great in terms of transport, medical services, internet etc.
Biggest Cultural Difference?
Korean culture, based on Confucianism, is in most respects the opposite of Western culture. The most difficult thing to deal with is that the primary social norm is to keep the harmony. Truth or honesty is important in our culture and specifically in my thinking, but in Korea its considered rude and extremely inconsiderate not to create the most harmonious environment. But I think there are changes afoot now that young Koreans watch American movies and there are increasing numbers of foreigners living and working in Korea.
Top Things to Do or See?
In summer: go to the islands on the south coast for fishing, eating sashimi and the beach. In winter: go skiing, snowboarding and ice-fishing. Anytime: visit the noraebang (singing room) and gimgilbang (sauna) to de-stress!
I came to Korea to take a year out and have no responsibility! It’s four years later and I’m married to an amazing Korean guy, have lots of pets and responsibilities, including a couple of small businesses and a facebook group for South Africans in Korea.
I work as a university lecturer – it is an awesome job! One of the perks is five months paid vacation every year, so my husband and I travel around Korea and Asia. I’ve seen most of Korea, there are some amazing places to visit for expats.
As much as I like aspects of Korea and the culture, there are elements I struggle to deal with – the attitudes towards women and the ignorance about foreigners being the biggies. My advice? Immerse yourself in the culture and have as much fun as possible without making Saffas look like idiots!
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