Oh, could you please post some fun things to do in Seoul and Jeju for young adult university students (18-21). Especially for POC's? Maybe some tips for vegans as well.. Thank you
Hi Anna! I appreciate this video. It’s about time someone brought this up. I have a lot of experience with both cultures myself. I haven’t lived in Korea, but my husband is Korean and I used to lead language exchanges before Covid. I noticed so many patterns. One thing that kind of annoys me a little is how some Koreans can be critical of whatever it is when they are abroad, and saying things like “In Korea… we (don’t) do ____” like bro, don’t place your expectations on a completely different country and culture. People don’t know the full story and context so they judge too soon. I remember when my husband’s parents came for our wedding, they would point and stare at little things like a little trash on the street or a damaged grocery cart wheel (fr though). And for visiting friends or people’s houses if you are abroad, people bring ramyun and kimchi with them if they stay over. If you bring your own food to someone’s house (unless they ask), it’s seen as rude, like you can’t trust them to host and provide adequate food. On the slurping thing, it’s generally considered a turn off to western people because it’s a kind of savage, animal like image to them. And someone can lose their appetite because those sounds are often associated with illness or lower class. And with the racism. Koreans are the first to complain about how people abroad can be racist to them, but don’t lift a finger when it comes to saying anything about discrimination and racism against foreigners in Korea. It’s unfair and hypocritical. The world doesn’t revolve around any one person or group. Things are two way streets often. Those are my thoughts anyway. Thanks again Anna!
So true. My husband is also korean and even tho i loved Korea so much even before i met him. I feel like the more i know Korea the less i understand Korea. Ive been meeting koreans also as a friends since my highschool years, but what i feel all the time is that they think that whole world is Korea and they cam behave like in Korea all over the world and of you say something like "but you cant do this here" (for example u-turn when driving" their answer is usually that its "korean style" .. and also as Anna nentioned about Sonny and BTS omg i saw koreans doing that so many times😅 i dont know if only i feel like that, but in my opinions sometimes koreans push korean culture ans everything korean to other people so so much. Esp compared to other country people. Young people dont usually do these things, but the older generation. Even the thing is really bad, for them its the best, because its korean thing. Everyone should be proud of his/her country of course and its great, but if everyone see its bad, its just bad and im not gonna say its the best thing only because its made in my country🤷♀️ Watching this video i was like omg yes at every point :D And esp the door holding. I always hold the door for the people walkong behing me, but in Korea the person just open the other door instead of passing through the door im holding for him/her😂
Sorry…I don’t like BTS and I really don’t feel it’s appropriate to say it to someone but I won’t lie so I’d probably avoid the question if possible. 🤷🏻♀️😳
Fascinating. I find the pride in their culture endearing, but I'm an American, so I guess that's kind of a thing here also. I think the British perspective is different in that it is expected that one is extremely proud of their culture, but one simply does not talk about it! Regarding holding doors, it seems to run the gamut here in the Midwestern U.S.. I've seen everything from ignoring everyone, to kind souls getting stuck holding a door for an unending queue of people. As for food sharing, I'm soooo in favor of the Korean style. I'm totally okay with "double dipping," but that is just how I was raised. We like to try a bit of everything, so "family style" as it's often called in the U.S., is great for us. My British father- in- law was over the moon about individual salsa dishes in a local Mexican restaurant though, and at family dinners giving or taking food off of another person's plate is not done (with the possible exception of yorkshire pudding, none of that will go uneaten if my lot are at the table! 😂). The tourist theft tracks. Some places in the U.S. are pretty safe, some are anything but. Always best to assume the worst. It is funny to think that in the U.S. the instant gratification Capitol of the world, most people would adore the service in Korean restaurants! They will not find that here and I kind of delight in the irony. 😂 Hmm, slurping noodles and traveling with kimchi? Guilty as charged! 🙋♀️😂 I have yet to have anyone bother me about it, but again, the U.S. trends to be more self absorbed than to pay much attention to how others eat except in the more high end, or quiet restaurants (and Iam mindful of etiquette in them), but I tend to avoid those places anyway, as I like more casual and relaxed dining. My sister also loves Korean cuisine (we both have found our G.I. systems give less trouble on these foods, so we happily slurp our noodles and eat kimchi at family meals at home. 😁❤️
@@milissarowell9877 Thanks for your take! I’m Canadian actually (hi neighbour!) and you say it’s the British perspective to feel that way about patriotism. Canada feels that way about patriotism too, since we are more British influenced compared to the USA (including how I spelt neighbour lol). We are raised to be proud of Canada, but we just don’t make it a big deal, that’s all. We are taught to be more humble. But if someone thinks I am American I’ll be quick to correct them. I love the USA too don’t get me wrong, it’s just not factually true and that I’m from Canada lol. A lot of people like to think Americans and Canadians are basically the same but we aren’t in certain areas which is another conversation. Canada is safer than the USA, but some parts I wouldn’t go to at night in a big city. Many Koreans think everywhere else other than East Asia is unsafe because of things like stealing, gun crimes, stabbings, anti Asian racism etc. being more of a problem in western countries. It’s a shock to them when they first come to the west lol With the technology and services thing, that’s an interesting topic I’ve been doing research on. Western societies tend to be more cautious with how much technology helps us compared to east Asia where you can see robots doing things for you more often. We love our independence and autonomy compared to east Asia, where they value things and people actively helping advance society, and yes that includes things like AI, robots, tech, etc. In the West, we get worried things will become like the movie Terminator so we are way more cautious about it. We also don’t pressure people to do certain things or buy into trends or the latest tech as much compared to East Asia. It’s interesting you bring up comfort food from home while travelling. Canadians and Europeans kind of meme Americans for that 😂😂 My family only like to visit places like McD’s just to see what’s different. Not to get a taste of comfort western food we are used to. We like to try items you wouldn’t normally find in Canada, like green tea flavoured drinks in Japan for example. My fam and I love trying out different things while on vacay. We will get plenty of western food when we finish our vacay and come back so take advantage! Lol Just wanted to contribute to the conversation! Thanks again for sharing too!
@@shortycastella Hey there! I actually lived in Canada for a year and adored it! I really felt much more comfortable with people there than here! But that's just me, and the way I was raised I guess. Well, that and ya'll have all the nice things! 😂 The only think I like better here, is that we could afford to buy a little bit of land to keep some sheep, goats, horses, etc. I couldn't even afford to board my horse there. She had to wait for me here. But everything else was lovely. Except the lack of tortillas which I trust has been remedied. 😁 And that's fascinating about McDonald's! I have a friend who moved to Spain and she says it's so much better there! I don't even want to think about how much better they must be in Asia! I'm envious! You speak a lot of interesting truths about Americans! We're a funny lot for sure! And not always funny ha, ha, unfortunately. 😏 Perhaps Canada is the happy medium between the British and the Americans?!😉
Anna ! Just so you know for you next time in Paris or France, when you are at a cafe or restaurant it’s considered rude to bring the bill to the client if not ask, so usually your waiter won’t bring it unless you ask for it ! Otherwise it’s considered as the restaurant/cafe is trying to chase you out since people usually pay right before leaving .. so in a sense they are leaving you time to chill and enjoy .. Love your videos 😊
I know this but I just wasn't clear about it in the video- they still take ages to bring it even after I've asked for it 😅thank you for liking my videos!
@@anna.lee_jy Same in my country, we usually order a coffee before leaving and ask for a bill right away So you can enjoy your coffee while they’re getting the bill ready
@@annalebedyntseva188 Haha, My parents do this too. If we are in the middle of the meal (1/2 food still left on the plate), Parents will ask those of us eating, "Do you think you want anything else?" "No?" "Ok, when the waiter comes back to ask if the food is ok, we'll ask for the bill so we will already have it." They usual let the waiter know why they are asking ahead of time and the waiter usual is grateful. And even if the waiter takes ages to come back with the bill, at least we receive it as we are finishing our plates of food. 🤭
Regarding eating in restaurants in Europe - why is often everything slow - it's kind of a ritual and relaxing thing to go out and eat so we don't mind when we wait for a waiter and wait for food. We are out with friends/family to hang out and eat so it's like a ritual. Of course sometimes you need to eat fast and go and locals usually know places where you can get your fast food 😁
In Europe they relax and "visit" at their tables. Most Americans go to eat and leave soon after. If they see a huge "party" of people they assume it's a special event and they will take longer. Restaurants aren't seen as a place to lounge around. Especially around dinnertime people don't want to hold up a table if they're done eating. That table can be for someone else if they been waiting in line starving.
Yeah definitely! We also don't mind the bill taking longer because we don't go to restaurants so much. Now that I'm living in Korea I'm eating at restaurants pretty much daily but in Germany I only went to restaurants to catch up with family or friends, maybe twice or thrice a month!
Great video Anna. I hope people don’t give you hate or see this as criticism but as a helping hand to make going abroad easier. As a Brazilian who has visited more than 20 countries, including Asian ones, I would add an extra care with table manners. As someone who has been to Asia and has been consuming Asian content like Korean, Japanese, Chinese dramas, products, music, vlogs etc… I’ve noticed that Asians tend to sometimes chew with their mouth open and also like to stuff a lot of food in their mouths. I’m not criticizing, I know that this is your way, BUT, in the West, those are two things that are not considered good table manners. If you do this, people will stare at you and call you a brute behind your back, specially if you’re in a nicer place, someone’s house, a party or a more formal setting. Again, I’m not criticizing, just trying to help you to adjust better when you are abroad. Please don’t hate me, people. 😬🫣
Man,,,it is same in Korea. Korea traditional table manner was very strict when I was young(1990). We have words 'do not make sound 'JJeop Jjeop'. it mimics sound of chewing. Talking a lot was not allowed while eating. and needed to wait until the oldest person started to lift spoon and eat. and cannot put your arms on the table. don't shake your legs while eating. it could be bit different by their family cultures. but basically it was common and similar. Recently kind of traditional manners has been fainted. and less chance to eat together with family and friends. And some eating sounds and motions makes ppl want to eat. so many youtubers and medias make the sounds louder. and some ppl think it is okay.
I found the historical information that you mentioned to be quite interesting. It really makes sense why the rest of the world knows so little about Korea. Thanks for this.
You are so spot on. Thank you for making this video so Koreans traveling abroad are aware of what not to do. Now I’m going to watch your video of what not to do as foreigners in Korea. It’s important that we all respect each other’s cultures
All of these sound about right. I would say with the restaurant bills, it depends on where you go. You can ask for the bill early on if you’re on a time limit. Some places do require to you to pay first or walk up to the counter after you’ve finished eating to pay. Also, the sharing of plates may depend on the group/people you’re out with for example work colleagues, we will eat off our own plates. But if with close friends or family, we do prefer sharing or eating “family style.” Thanks for sharing Anna, sending you lots of love from Seattle, WA!
You shoulder check me it’s a wrap. Bc absolutely not. I don’t understand how the Korean society can place respect so high but the lack of respect they show to other is crazy.
“Not reacting” is well-meaning advice, but likely to backfire. You don’t have to choose only between doing nothing at all and “fighting with crazies.” If someone does something racist, you don’t have to shout at them or get into an argument. That’s stupid and only prolonging an unpleasant interaction. You can however: raise your eyebrows at them; shake your head slowly; look them straight in the eye…all these actions let them know they’ve crossed a line, you won’t stand for it, but without getting into a fight which can be unpredictable. Don’t stoop to their level but also don’t just keep mum (especially if you end up hating yourself for it). Racists know by and large they can get away with it, so just letting them know they’re out of line is already unusual and will make them think twice to do it to the next person.
Also, if you're being harassed or ridiculed in a public venue like a restaurant or bar, don't think you have to leave. It's totally acceptable to speak with the manager (or bouncer, security guard etc) and tell me what's going on. Especially if you're a woman, most places take harassment and racial slurs very seriously and may even ask the harassers to leave!
I think it depends on the city you’re in. In America restaurants are starting to be faster about getting your check because they want your table available, and you can always hunt down or grab the waitperson’s attention to bring you your check. That’s extremely common. Also, in Austin Texas I leave my bag on a table all the time while I order at the counter or go to the bathroom. Not all restaurants but most. And it depends on the part of town you’re in. Some cities and neighborhoods are safer than others.
Thanks, Anna 🏆. Two things I definitely agree. The courtesy of opening the door for someone at the back or front slamming the door would be considered super rude in Eastern Europe, Germany , and Switzerland . Also, if someone hits someone with a shoulder or brushes through, most likely , one would get a rude reply back or possibly a smash in the face, surely from the guys 😆, not from every guy, but most will show manliness , of course if u are also ,guy !
That noodle slurp edit was hilarious (Japanese slurp levels are same too lmao) 😂 Btw I see some comments about whether you’re more Korean or British and wanted to say: I’m of similar-ish background to you (born in Japan, fully Japanese, but lived in the US since 14 yrs old for 10+ yrs). Ppl think they can armchair diagnose ppl like us whether we’re more Western or Asian/home country. But THE FACT IS it’s way too f*cking complicated for anyone other than ourselves to understand our identity. Plus no one 100% fits the mold of their own country; they just think they do. We’re definitely Westernized but also way more Asian imbedded than anyone online can fully recognize. Just wanted to say that I get it. Great video!! 🫶🏼🩵
You think you know both bcuz you lived in both. but you also can think that you don't know some parts of both. I have my sister who lives in oversea over 20yrs. she think she knows many part of korea bcuz she watching Korean medias and talk with us. But she totally doesn't know what's going and how changed on this society. specifically Korea society has changed speedy. I got shocked when I came back to Korea after 2yrs from overseas.
@2:56, I completely agree. However, I wouldn’t call it “national pride”, rather it’s national insecurity and seeking approval from other nations for many. When you’re proud of you nation, you don’t seek brownie points.
These were such interesting points, I like it. I'm from a small european country that's actually more homogeneous than SK lmao (so some of the locals can be rude) and we get A LOT of east asian tourists - mostly korean and chinese. They love it here. And to be honest I never experienced any of these stuff from them. Interesting. Also, I've traveled a lot in Europe and a few asian countries and haven't had any negative experiences with korean people. Honestly they mush together with us and I don't even notice them most of the time here lmao. Tho I'm scared if I'll have a verbal fight with some rude old korean person who is a tourist here lmao ...it's only because of the hierarchy...we are not used to that. You show respect to me, I show respect to you, or other way around...it's as simple as that here...
In fact, it is true that Koreans in their 60s and older generally have little difference on average in their environment, values, and life experiences with Chinese people of the same generation. Unless they have lived in a few wealthy families, they have experienced poverty well, and many people have devoted their entire day to working hard for more than half a day except for sleeping and eating, and they were still familiar with Confucian culture deep in large families
People's Republic of China also had similar travel restrictions, but now my cousins and aunts have passports and funds to travel, they have travelled to neighbouring SE Asia. Trying to get them to visit us in 🇿🇦
I just cannot get over the not holding the door thing. It’s just baffling, what if the person behind you is an elder? What about respect for elders? It’s just plain rude! It’s not that hard to do either. It’s in direct opposition to the overly honorific way of speaking, I guess Koreans make up for being subservient to elders by slamming the door in the face of someone they don’t know 😂
Yes. If you let the server know to bring the bill mid meal they will happily do it. They don't want to bring bill early because it's seen as "rude/rushing" customers off the table. They want them to enjoy taking their time eating the meal.
You can flag the waiter for the bill in most restaurants in the UK. Also there is a fantastic little Korean restaurant in the Blackfriars area in London. So popular and busy. Well recommended ❤
I'm Chinese American and definitely love the family style eating. Sometimes I do just want to eat off my own plate or maybe I'm at a restaurant where most of the dishes don't appeal to me. Then sometimes i eat off my own plate ehile the rest of my friends share. But you're right, lots of Americans don't do family style. Which seems strange to me but it's how they were raised.
My children are Asian and this happens all the time people coming up to us they say my children and baby so cute and beautiful they wanna hug and carry her and I have to stop them from trying to touch and take photos. A lot of them wanna take photos and videos too. I don’t like it, especially it’s dumb rude to do this without asking permission first or if I am okay with it. A lot of them just take their phones up to take photos and videos. I have to tell them don’t and stop them. Very weird people and no manners. I want to slap their damn phones or whatever out of their hand. You should ask first if people are okay with it. And they are trying to come too close.
Surprising that Koreans would want to take pictures of Asian babies. They can do that at home the cutest babies are from Korea and Japan. It makes sense they would want to take a picture with a Caucasian baby though.
We Chinese, when going to eat in a Chinese restaurant in 🇿🇦, we order food and share family style. When we go to a western type restaurant, eg steak or seafood, then we each order our own individual meal.
Regarding racist remarks, as someone who lives in the largest city in America, you don't know how unstable they are or what weapons they may be carrying. It's Def not worth risking your own life to fight back at them. It's super annoying and I hate feeding into this idea that Asian people are meek or submissive. We're not. In Asia, we would argue on the streets and fight back with our own kind of people over anything negative. But see, in some parts of Asia, crime is relatively low. You don't have to worry as much about it. Most people aren't carrying weapons and won't shoot you over an insult. But here in the US there are so many crazy people walking around with machetes and guns. It's not worth it. It sucks and it hurts but it's not worth it.
Anna I love you and I love this video. This applies to everyone visiting a foreign country. Respect the country’s culture. But one thing that does annoy me is the spitting on the street, and littering. I’m in the US and I just feel like America is dirty except in the tourists areas. I walk down the street looking at the ground making sure I don’t step in spit, poop, and food. Although it’s not customary to take our shoes off before entering the home as it is in your country, in my house it is mandatory because the streets are nasty and I don’t want that nastiness in my house. When I visit SK I will still hold the door and I don’t care if they don’t do it for me. I’m just a caring person by nature.
About the holding door thing, I used to hold it when I lived in the UK. And start to hold less when back to HK, specially after covid, cos ppl tend to use their foot to open the door 😂
Very good points, especially holding your bags clothes to you & phones. I am a NYer and anytime I go travel, my bags & personal items stay close. Best practice ever. Thank you for your always sharing great information.
I think the sharing food thing is fun personally, I am American and my immediate family does it a lot at restaurants, but it depends on what you order...not all dishes are easy and hygienic to share...sandwiches verses pasta for instance.
해외에서 예쁜 아기 보면 그냥 예쁘네 하고 그냥 지나가세요. 계속 응시하지 마시고 손으로 아기 만지면 안됩니다. 요새는 한국에서도 남의 아기 예쁘다고 함부로 만지면 큰 싸움 납니다. If you will view a cute baby abroad a countrys, just think it's pretty and get by. Don't continue to staring and don't touch the baby with your hands. These days, even though in Korea, if they will be touched the baby who don't know even though it's a pretty baby, that could be a huge fight.
Im malaysian and there are many korean tourist here in malaysia, i remember that one time i was in starbuck and went to the restroom to do my thing, and i just took a seat and then suddenly there was someone knocking the door, i was shocked at first but i thought okay since they knew someone is inside they would probably stop, but no they keep knocking the door repeatedly, and then i got annoyed but its not like i can pause my business ahaha so after washing my hand and open the door i saw a korean lady infront just went in straight, their ppali ppali culture are really a habit and i wish they knew not to do that in other countries. Great video for knowledge 👍🏻
I visited South Korea 20 years ago and plan to go again next year to see how much it has changed. Many aspects mentioned in the video are similar to mainland China, which makes sense as South Korea is connected to the mainland, unlike Japan, which shares parallels with the UK.
Anna, this video is very interesting, especially that Koreans weren’t allowed free travel until 1989!! As a British born Asian, I don’t often see Korean visitors in the UK, not in the north anyway. I’ve seen them in London as my Korean friend came to visit and at a BTS concert at Wembley too. I haven’t seen this type of behaviour of Koreans approaching babies and taking photos. If they were to ask, I think I would be ok. You see I’m guilty of doing it myself. I’ve asked in Italy, Morocco and just last month in Bangladesh and they all said yes. It’s just I find them cute or photogenic and I like carrying my camera. I enjoy photographing people. I share meals with my family as I think it’s an Asian thing, even south Asian. Yep, I’m used to the slow service in restaurants but it’s not slow, that’s just the pace of UK. I haven’t seen your other video of telling foreigners what to expect in Korea, but having visited the country last year, I found that I was pleasantly surprised by how nice and friendly Koreans can be.
I went to Korea my first time in September 2023. People were really nice to me. I didn’t see the spitting or the slurping of noodles. I’m glad for that. I have to come back there. That country is good for my self-esteem. People were saying the nicest things to me. I like your comments and your English accent is awesome!
Usually if I am in a rush or I know a certain restaurant take a long time, as soon as they bring my food I will ask for the bill. That way it its on the table you can put your card down and as you eat you can pay for the food. So when you are ready to leave you can just get up and go. I have noticed many places are now giving you receipts with a QR code so that you can pay on your won as well. And if you want to add onto you order and you have already payed just ask the the bill as soon as you order and it will come out with your food.
오오 이거 저도 원했던 건데 딱 좋은 타이밍에 올려주셔서 감사드립니다ㅋㅋㅋ 안그래도 3월에 유럽여행 혼자 가거든요 기존에 알고 있던 것도 있었고 모르는 것도 있어서 정말 도움됐어요!!😏 하나 더 질문 드리고 싶은게 있는데 외국에서 유툽 촬영이나 이런 거 할때 자유롭게 하셨었는지 궁금합니다!! 여행 브이로그 하거 싶어서요! 좋은 영상 감사드립니다~~
폰으로 하실거면 손목스트랩 사시는 걸 추천해요 소매치기 방지용! 그리고 카메라 들고 다니면서 주절주절하면 사람들이 쳐다보고 말도 걸 수 있는데 그건 인종차별이 아니라 그냥 어느 나라 유튜버든 다 관종이라고 생각할 수 있어서 속상할 필요는 없어요 ㅋㅋㅋ 여행 잘 하시길!!
I really like the way you educate us in the videos! I suppose it takes more work and time to research histories and other stuff… I really like your contents!!!!
Here in the UK, there is a massive litter issue. However, it's becoming more frowned upon. During the 80's, 90's etc, folk could get away with dropping large pieces of litter in plain view, but now, it's not uncommon to see others picking the perpetrator up on their behaviour.
6:35 sharing food. HK people used to do the same, but for more than 20 years, restaurants have been putting out communal chopsticks for picking up food from the shared dishes.
FYI in the US you can usually ask to pay the bill in advance when you're ordering at the table. I've done this a few times when I was in a hurry and didn't want to wait forever after I ate to get the bill. The caveat is that the US is big on tip culture so if someone was not a good server and you paid the bill in advance, then you have no recourse to get your tip back. Personally I don't like tip culture. But that's a whole other irrelevant conversation And as an American born Chinese, I was shocked that in Taiwan you can also leave your bag to save your place at a cafe or food court. I would never dare do this in the US. Even in Taiwan I didn't trust it so I would just leave an umbrella or sweater. Lol.
I don't expect that but I met many many nice ppl who hold the door for me whole of my life in Korea. And always say thank you to them. and I aldo do it for others. and I think that it is also kind of timing each other. some ppl doesn't want touch the door bar nowdays. I push the door by my body sometimes. Right! I really hate the cigarettes.
Yes 👍🏽 ANNA everything you shared is both interesting and accurate. For me …you’re an intelligent and culturally aware S. KOREAN. Great insight and episode. 🙋🏻♀️🥰✅
Nice video Anna! I used to live in Korea from 2013-18. I agree with everything you said here. Maybe except the last point about racist remarks. For Asians not to respond to racism actually contributes to it because it makes them think we’re an easy target and will probably do it to the next Asian person they see.
Hi Anna, I watch kdramas and lots of non Korean people comment about people eating with their mouth open on the shows. I find it cringe bc I am Korean but grew up in the states. Also the elder people doing what they want is really annoying. Lots of elderly Korean people living in the states still act like it’s Korea. Really rude.
Ordering and paying at a restaurant in the UK depends on each individual place. If you have to wait to be seated there will be a sign to say that otherwise you just find a seat and then the server will come to you or there will be a sign to say that you order at the bar or at the counter. If they are taking too long to come to you then by all means signal to a server or get up and ask the nearest one. Don't sit ands take it. They should be with you to take your drinks order within a few minutes or don't bother to stay. Don't be afraid to send food back which isn't cooked or heated properly but don't be an idiot and complain just to get free food. If you just don't like what you've ordered you might be able to get an alternative but expect to pay for it. If they are slow bringing you the bill find a server and request it. It's poor service to keep a customer waiting. I wear a cross body close fitting bag which deters pickpockets. I haven't visited Korea yet but Japan is supposed to be safe but a lady on my tour had to stop a guy picking her pocket in Tokyo. Do not put your wallet or phone in your backpack and wear a bum bag with the opening in front of you. Being elderly gives you the right to be respected like anyone else but you need to be polite too. Hopefully people on the buses or tubes will stand for you but some people are not well mannered and see no need to be kind. Queueing is expected in the UK. Unfortunately so is tipping.
5:42 In Italy it’s normal to go up to couples who have a baby and start a conversation with the baby or kid. We love kids here and if you have a child we usually like to give them compliments or entertain them in some ways or make them laugh. You might also experience old ladies who will squeeze your baby’s cheeks or feet. We usually don’t ask for pics though that would be weird here too. In Florence happened the opposite, I was there with my two Korean friends and an Italian child of around 4-5 years old wanted to take a pic of my friends to show off his new camera (parent’s one😂) and said they were beautiful. Italy is a very friendly country for children and animals in general. So if Koreans wants to chat with babies and children here we are very accepting of this behaviour❤
Could you explain a little about what you're talking about? I'm not as knowledgeable about kpop but very interested in how a culture would be affected by a lack of travel abroad up until so recently
Hi Anna, that shoulder thing. I actually noticed that when I went to Seoul And I found it really impolite and disrespectful. Also, the door is so true. Im from London though.
hey anna, i’m absolutely invested on your contents for my south korea trip on july 2024. i’m taking your recommendations far too seriously even i added them to my to-do list! have you ever considered to make a tour video about kbeauty shops and your suggestions?
I agree with you on all of these, though on some of them to a lesser extent. The act of slurping has taken some getting used to when I’ve been in Korea, since I was brought up with the concept of not being a goop: “the goops they talk while eating, and loud and fast they chew.” My feeling is that brushing past someone is not necessarily a huge deal, but knocking into someone definitely is definitely shocking, especially in an open space, and warrants an apology. I’ve felt incensed when it’s happened to me. I remember a Scottish friend, back in the late 1970s, telling me what to say when in a grocery store and needing to get past someone blocking an aisle. As I recall, it was “sorry” rather than “excuse me,” which is what we would say in the U.S. I don’t recall when “pardon me” is supposed to be used. Anyway, your list contains pointers that are useful for tourists visiting Korea to know what they might expect. Thx!
I am in Seoul currently and coincidentally today it happened that a girl purposely shut the door, that was in an open position. Couldn't believe this bullcrappery.
Yes, big tourist places like Barcelona, Paris, etc. You should be careful of your luckage and bags. The more showy, gets you targeted for sure. Slurping is considered very rude table manners, just like having a hat/cap on your head while you are eating.
People do share food with each other, this is not only common to Korea. Easter Europeans always do. In fact, they will not let you go, unless u try everything on the table. U, Anna have not been in many countries. So, before u say " only in Korea" you should visit other countries and learn about their hospitality.
As a foreign living and married in korea it's all the things i keep telling my husband 😅 one more thing i wish korean people would actually try european food instead of eating noodles in their hotel room 😅
I’m not Korean but Central/South Asian and me and my family have lived in the West for a while now but even we still do things similar to Koreans abroad 😂 the older people in my family always shove people out the way hahah, my family get so impatient at restaurants or eating out, we always share when eating, and sometimes the men spit on the floor too (gross and they don’t do it anymore but in the past yes). Anyway! I guess cultures from all around the world are more similar then we realise!!
In Australia people often share food, especially if it’s Thai, Chinese, Indian etc but whereas if it’s Italian or Aussie food then you usually have an individual serve. I find the whole age hierarchy in Korea to be strange as it seems to be based purely on seniority rather than actual ability. Also the same with honorifics, the fact you have to address someone who’s just a week older than yourself by a certain name comes across as being subservient to that person, which seems especially backward in the 21st century.
Thanks for providing that information at the beginning about travel restrictions. I do wonder if Korean travelers mention well-known nationals as a way to bridge a cultural gap and not just to be patriotic. It's something I'd likely do, but I'm 63 and Southern 😂
As a Filipino, not an American. In the United States, if you enter a cafe and leave your belongings on the table, it means you have already taken the table, but you must inform the person next to you who is looking at your belongings when you need to use the restroom or something if they do not mind taking care of your belongings until you return. That is the way things are done in America. If you did not tell someone next to you to keep an eye on your belongings, they may have been stolen.
Omg the eating I have to mute if I see there is a eating seen hearing the sound of someone eating is disgusting thank you for bringing it up, also I heard it's not part of your culture it was a trend brought by some movies
Hi Anna, I think this is not only a Korean issue, it's the same with most races. Unfortunately, most people assume that what's acceptable at home is acceptable in other countries.
Koreans seem to be pretty fixed on visiting the big cities, but small towns and the countryside have some real gems to be explored. They're also much safer and small European towns still have decent public transport, if you don't want to rent a car. Another thing to keep in mind are public holidays in Europe. One of my Korean friends decided to spend a long weekend in Germany during the Easter holidays. She ended up being a bit disappointed because almost everything was closed except on Saturday.
When youre at a german restaurant you may ask customers to have an eye on your bag. I think most of the time they will agree and will watch your stuff with "Argusaugen".
As an American if I’m eating with foreigners I’m going to eat however they want, they are my guests, if that means we are all sharing multiple dishes then that’s fine. If that means we are all eating separate dishes that is also fine. If it means I’m paying the whole bill instead of splitting it that is also fine. Again, they are *my guests* I’m going to do whatever makes them the most comfortable.
Hi Anna, We do share food sometimes in America lol. Some restaurants do “small plates” where a group may come in and order several small plate items off the menu and then share amongst themselves, but everyone still takes the piece they want and puts it on their own personal plate to eat off of. So small plate venues do allow you to try different items if you want that setting
The only Place in Europe where your bag will not be stolen if you leave it for 5 seconds is everywhere in Germany. Germans do really care about there surroundings and are also very concerned about what people could think about them if they do something bad. 🤭
What are you talking about? People steal in Germany and I know a lot of Korean students who got their bags or phones stolen especially in crowded places.
it would be better than in Italy and france but We exactly don't know what is happening outside of our house. someone still stolen money and phone in Germany. 😢
Idk I feel like outside of london (I'm from the South), people are much less likely to just grab your bag, I used to just pop my bag on my laptop when going to the loo in cafes or if it was really busy, ask someone to keep an eye. People tend to look out for each other still.
It would be great to hear your thoughts and even have a comparison between the UK and Japan. I see many parallels, as both countries are island nations with similar etiquettes and are quite different from their respective neighboring countries.
I'll mention one thing that I know may be specific to the U.S., having only been to a few places in Europe (although I suspect that Europeans aren't that different from us in this respect): wearing a lot of luxury logos is not only a safety hazard; it's often considered in poor taste. Walking around covered in luxury logos is just less socially acceptable in the U.S. The ultra-rich - whether they're East Coast old money or Silicon Valley new money - generally don't do it. With the exception of your car and your house, status symbols tend to be more low-key. Flashing a brand new bag with an obvious logo on it is more annoying than impressive. Quiet luxury is the classy thing here. It's purely cultural: the United States was formed on the idea that everyone is created equal, and that ideal tends to permeate our thinking. Where I live in the San Francisco Bay Area, it's even more so: billionaires go to Costco to buy TVs in $40 jeans from Old Navy. And California has more millionaires and billionaires than any other state in the country. But even in Los Angeles, which is culturally very different from the San Francisco Bay Area, wearing luxury logos all over yourself is likely to cause a lot of exasperated mental eye-rolling from people thinking you're a bit trashy. (We also have a way of repeating Rousseau: "Eat the rich." So there's that.) Again: purely cultural and an artifact of our history. We never had a monarchy or a formally recognized nobility. You do not have to wait for the bill at a restaurant in the U.S. Flag down a server and ask for it, politely. It's considered rude to treat servers as functionaries; they deserve courtesy and respect just like anyone else doing an honest job, so we like everyone to treat them accordingly. That goes for flight attendants on an airplane; cashiers at a grocery or convenience store; sanitation workers: everyone. But if you need your bill because you need to make it to a theater for curtain, for example, it's perfectly normal and acceptable to signal a server and politely request it. Europeans are more likely to view a restaurant meal as an experience and something to be enjoyed at leisure (la dolce vita) but in the U.S. it's fine to be in a rush and say so, as long as you're polite about it. It's also worth noting that when you talk about the United States (not talking about Europe here), the U.S. is huge, so there are a lot of regional differences in the way that people will react to tourists from any country. A LOT. My home state of California all by itself is so large that the entire Republic of Korea would fit inside it four times with room left over, and California isn't even the largest state in the U.S. (it's the third largest). In a city like New York City, Washington DC, San Francisco, or Los Angeles, tourists from Korea would barely attract any attention at all - those cities get lots of tourists from all over the world - and are less likely to be a target of racist remarks. Other parts of the country are very, very different.
i feel like it's more accurate to replace "abroad" with "the west". not everywhere in the world is represented by western customs 😛 for e.g. i know many places where people won't hold the door for u either
This totally explains that scene from Crash Landing On You where Ri Jeong Hyeok was holding the door for people. Sure, it might have been exaggerated but I just found it funny how everyone casually started filming him 😂
You mentioned NOT tipping in Korea in your other video-- conversely, it's considered rude NOT to tip your waitstaff at a sit-down restaurant in the U.S., The wage structure is different for servers, and therefore they DO rely on tips to help make up their income.
I would say that if you want to experience service similar to how you would in Korea… I would recommend going to places that are ran by Koreans that grew up in Korea.. yes it will be Americanized but still similar
Pretty Anna!!! 🖤🖤 Thanks over the history, didn't know that about the flights in the past. 😧😧 Missed your regular content and looking forward for more. Like this reversal content, to see it both ways. 🤩🤩
I completely agree regarding spitting and tossing cigarette butts. It's not cool at all, but such behaviour just shows a lack of etiquette, consideration and hygiene. Not gonna lie I was really shocked to witness such behavior in person one night while traveling in Korea. The cigarette butt nearly landed close to me as I waited in line for street food. 😅
I often watch youtube & see groups of Koreans out for dinner sharing their food & using chopsticks that have just been in their mouth to then pick up food with those same chopsticks from a shared platter of food. In the West this is a big no lol. Def gonna get some grossed out looks if you try that here haha 😂♥️
Yeah I would agree with the racist remarks etc. I'm from England, and I've seen a lot of this. I can say that it is a shameful way to behave and honestly, I would encourage you not to engage with these people, because most of them are trying to get a raise out of you so they can have an argument or get more abusive. Just ignore them full stop. Also, there is something I do, and I've seen others in my country do this too... if I see someone being racist towards foreigners in a shop, I will try to make eye contact with the foreigner to let them know I have their back, and I will stick close to the foreigner so that I can protect them or defend them if the racist person becomes worse. There is a certain time a lot of local people here WILL jump in and tell the racist person to get lost, and we will stand beside and in front of the foreigner to defend them, even if they have lived here for a long time and just look different. So, please look out for kind people trying to make eye contact with you while you're experiencing racism. I'm in the North East of England, and there are a LOT of protective people up here. :D
P.s. I am also female, so we can also be protective up here. Also if you feel intimidated, please mention this to a shop assistant or ask to see the shop manager and they will help
When it comes to harassing strangers, England is one of the worst from my experience. Especially guilty are many of the youths there that roam the English towns in their tracksuits and hoodies.
I would like to share my experience as a non-Korean who has been to South Korea. I am a (Chinese) Singaporean and when I tell Koreans that I am from Singapore, they would sometimes say that I look Korean and I can see that they meant it as a compliment. I was a little confused as to how to react although I appreciate the well intent. You are spot on about Koreans asking non-Koreans if they know Kpop and stuff cuz I experienced that myself. Also, I once knew this Korean guy in Singapore who often wear a shirt with a South Korean flag. It is almost as though he wants everyone to know that he is Korean lol.
Also another thing to remember: Those whose hair texture that is kinky or curly may not take too kindly to those curious to touch it without permission, even if asked. I’ve had some well meaning folks from other countries that do that.
With the bill, at least in sweden, we signal the waiter to come to the table and then ask for the bill. The bill isnt automatically brought to you, think just to clarify so people dont think they should just sit and wait and not signal. Most european countries.
what people can do (well that's what i do here in France), when the waiter/waitress comes to your table to ask if you want a coffee after your dessert, you just mention that you want the bill too. So they are quicker this way.
Ver informative! I love the slurping part. I actually wonder why Koreans eat like that. I heard that Japanese people too and other Asian countries say that slurping your noodles show that you appreciate the food and show gratitude to the hosts or the restaurants. I don’t know if that’s true. I understand holding the door for the person who is immediately behind you. It shows kindness. To Koreans, be careful not to slam the door on a child or to an elderly. 😢
So interesting!Last part is so damn sad, though: to know that most of you have experienced (blatant) racism abroad. It’s heartbreaking. Your advice is sound, to ignore them and let karma take care of them.
I'm doing a live tomorrow at 11am KST! Come and chat :)
ruclips.net/user/livejLl3mxFVpA0
Would love to join... but that's just middle in the night CET. 😅
Will watch it later then. Thank you for your interesting content. 🫶
Oh, could you please post some fun things to do in Seoul and Jeju for young adult university students (18-21). Especially for POC's? Maybe some tips for vegans as well.. Thank you
Hi Anna! I appreciate this video. It’s about time someone brought this up.
I have a lot of experience with both cultures myself. I haven’t lived in Korea, but my husband is Korean and I used to lead language exchanges before Covid. I noticed so many patterns.
One thing that kind of annoys me a little is how some Koreans can be critical of whatever it is when they are abroad, and saying things like “In Korea… we (don’t) do ____” like bro, don’t place your expectations on a completely different country and culture. People don’t know the full story and context so they judge too soon. I remember when my husband’s parents came for our wedding, they would point and stare at little things like a little trash on the street or a damaged grocery cart wheel (fr though).
And for visiting friends or people’s houses if you are abroad, people bring ramyun and kimchi with them if they stay over. If you bring your own food to someone’s house (unless they ask), it’s seen as rude, like you can’t trust them to host and provide adequate food.
On the slurping thing, it’s generally considered a turn off to western people because it’s a kind of savage, animal like image to them. And someone can lose their appetite because those sounds are often associated with illness or lower class.
And with the racism. Koreans are the first to complain about how people abroad can be racist to them, but don’t lift a finger when it comes to saying anything about discrimination and racism against foreigners in Korea. It’s unfair and hypocritical. The world doesn’t revolve around any one person or group. Things are two way streets often.
Those are my thoughts anyway. Thanks again Anna!
So true. My husband is also korean and even tho i loved Korea so much even before i met him. I feel like the more i know Korea the less i understand Korea. Ive been meeting koreans also as a friends since my highschool years, but what i feel all the time is that they think that whole world is Korea and they cam behave like in Korea all over the world and of you say something like "but you cant do this here" (for example u-turn when driving" their answer is usually that its "korean style" .. and also as Anna nentioned about Sonny and BTS omg i saw koreans doing that so many times😅 i dont know if only i feel like that, but in my opinions sometimes koreans push korean culture ans everything korean to other people so so much. Esp compared to other country people. Young people dont usually do these things, but the older generation. Even the thing is really bad, for them its the best, because its korean thing. Everyone should be proud of his/her country of course and its great, but if everyone see its bad, its just bad and im not gonna say its the best thing only because its made in my country🤷♀️
Watching this video i was like omg yes at every point :D
And esp the door holding. I always hold the door for the people walkong behing me, but in Korea the person just open the other door instead of passing through the door im holding for him/her😂
Sorry…I don’t like BTS and I really don’t feel it’s appropriate to say it to someone but I won’t lie so I’d probably avoid the question if possible. 🤷🏻♀️😳
Fascinating. I find the pride in their culture endearing, but I'm an American, so I guess that's kind of a thing here also. I think the British perspective is different in that it is expected that one is extremely proud of their culture, but one simply does not talk about it!
Regarding holding doors, it seems to run the gamut here in the Midwestern U.S.. I've seen everything from ignoring everyone, to kind souls getting stuck holding a door for an unending queue of people.
As for food sharing, I'm soooo in favor of the Korean style. I'm totally okay with "double dipping," but that is just how I was raised. We like to try a bit of everything, so "family style" as it's often called in the U.S., is great for us. My British father- in- law was over the moon about individual salsa dishes in a local Mexican restaurant though, and at family dinners giving or taking food off of another person's plate is not done (with the possible exception of yorkshire pudding, none of that will go uneaten if my lot are at the table! 😂).
The tourist theft tracks. Some places in the U.S. are pretty safe, some are anything but. Always best to assume the worst.
It is funny to think that in the U.S. the instant gratification Capitol of the world, most people would adore the service in Korean restaurants! They will not find that here and I kind of delight in the irony. 😂
Hmm, slurping noodles and traveling with kimchi? Guilty as charged! 🙋♀️😂 I have yet to have anyone bother me about it, but again, the U.S. trends to be more self absorbed than to pay much attention to how others eat except in the more high end, or quiet restaurants (and Iam mindful of etiquette in them), but I tend to avoid those places anyway, as I like more casual and relaxed dining. My sister also loves Korean cuisine (we both have found our G.I. systems give less trouble on these foods, so we happily slurp our noodles and eat kimchi at family meals at home. 😁❤️
@@milissarowell9877 Thanks for your take! I’m Canadian actually (hi neighbour!) and you say it’s the British perspective to feel that way about patriotism. Canada feels that way about patriotism too, since we are more British influenced compared to the USA (including how I spelt neighbour lol). We are raised to be proud of Canada, but we just don’t make it a big deal, that’s all. We are taught to be more humble. But if someone thinks I am American I’ll be quick to correct them. I love the USA too don’t get me wrong, it’s just not factually true and that I’m from Canada lol. A lot of people like to think Americans and Canadians are basically the same but we aren’t in certain areas which is another conversation.
Canada is safer than the USA, but some parts I wouldn’t go to at night in a big city. Many Koreans think everywhere else other than East Asia is unsafe because of things like stealing, gun crimes, stabbings, anti Asian racism etc. being more of a problem in western countries. It’s a shock to them when they first come to the west lol
With the technology and services thing, that’s an interesting topic I’ve been doing research on. Western societies tend to be more cautious with how much technology helps us compared to east Asia where you can see robots doing things for you more often. We love our independence and autonomy compared to east Asia, where they value things and people actively helping advance society, and yes that includes things like AI, robots, tech, etc. In the West, we get worried things will become like the movie Terminator so we are way more cautious about it. We also don’t pressure people to do certain things or buy into trends or the latest tech as much compared to East Asia.
It’s interesting you bring up comfort food from home while travelling. Canadians and Europeans kind of meme Americans for that 😂😂 My family only like to visit places like McD’s just to see what’s different. Not to get a taste of comfort western food we are used to. We like to try items you wouldn’t normally find in Canada, like green tea flavoured drinks in Japan for example. My fam and I love trying out different things while on vacay. We will get plenty of western food when we finish our vacay and come back so take advantage! Lol
Just wanted to contribute to the conversation! Thanks again for sharing too!
@@shortycastella Hey there! I actually lived in Canada for a year and adored it! I really felt much more comfortable with people there than here! But that's just me, and the way I was raised I guess. Well, that and ya'll have all the nice things! 😂 The only think I like better here, is that we could afford to buy a little bit of land to keep some sheep, goats, horses, etc. I couldn't even afford to board my horse there. She had to wait for me here. But everything else was lovely. Except the lack of tortillas which I trust has been remedied. 😁
And that's fascinating about McDonald's! I have a friend who moved to Spain and she says it's so much better there! I don't even want to think about how much better they must be in Asia! I'm envious!
You speak a lot of interesting truths about Americans! We're a funny lot for sure! And not always funny ha, ha, unfortunately. 😏 Perhaps Canada is the happy medium between the British and the Americans?!😉
I liked the history lesson at the beginning. I didnt know that.
Anna ! Just so you know for you next time in Paris or France, when you are at a cafe or restaurant it’s considered rude to bring the bill to the client if not ask, so usually your waiter won’t bring it unless you ask for it ! Otherwise it’s considered as the restaurant/cafe is trying to chase you out since people usually pay right before leaving .. so in a sense they are leaving you time to chill and enjoy ..
Love your videos 😊
I know this but I just wasn't clear about it in the video- they still take ages to bring it even after I've asked for it 😅thank you for liking my videos!
@@anna.lee_jy
Same in my country, we usually order a coffee before leaving and ask for a bill right away
So you can enjoy your coffee while they’re getting the bill ready
@@annalebedyntseva188 Haha, My parents do this too. If we are in the middle of the meal (1/2 food still left on the plate), Parents will ask those of us eating, "Do you think you want anything else?" "No?" "Ok, when the waiter comes back to ask if the food is ok, we'll ask for the bill so we will already have it." They usual let the waiter know why they are asking ahead of time and the waiter usual is grateful. And even if the waiter takes ages to come back with the bill, at least we receive it as we are finishing our plates of food. 🤭
ruclips.net/video/tnSkQEEFpMk/видео.html
Regarding eating in restaurants in Europe - why is often everything slow - it's kind of a ritual and relaxing thing to go out and eat so we don't mind when we wait for a waiter and wait for food. We are out with friends/family to hang out and eat so it's like a ritual. Of course sometimes you need to eat fast and go and locals usually know places where you can get your fast food 😁
In Europe they relax and "visit" at their tables. Most Americans go to eat and leave soon after. If they see a huge "party" of people they assume it's a special event and they will take longer. Restaurants aren't seen as a place to lounge around. Especially around dinnertime people don't want to hold up a table if they're done eating. That table can be for someone else if they been waiting in line starving.
Yeah definitely! We also don't mind the bill taking longer because we don't go to restaurants so much. Now that I'm living in Korea I'm eating at restaurants pretty much daily but in Germany I only went to restaurants to catch up with family or friends, maybe twice or thrice a month!
I personally do mind quite a lot and prefer not to eat out much for this reason.
If it bothers you, ask the waitress for the bill 1/2 hour before leaving...that should solve it
@@louarmstrong6128 1/2 hour before leaving I am not even in the restaurant yet
Great video Anna. I hope people don’t give you hate or see this as criticism but as a helping hand to make going abroad easier. As a Brazilian who has visited more than 20 countries, including Asian ones, I would add an extra care with table manners. As someone who has been to Asia and has been consuming Asian content like Korean, Japanese, Chinese dramas, products, music, vlogs etc… I’ve noticed that Asians tend to sometimes chew with their mouth open and also like to stuff a lot of food in their mouths. I’m not criticizing, I know that this is your way, BUT, in the West, those are two things that are not considered good table manners. If you do this, people will stare at you and call you a brute behind your back, specially if you’re in a nicer place, someone’s house, a party or a more formal setting. Again, I’m not criticizing, just trying to help you to adjust better when you are abroad. Please don’t hate me, people. 😬🫣
Man,,,it is same in Korea.
Korea traditional table manner was very strict when I was young(1990).
We have words 'do not make sound 'JJeop Jjeop'. it mimics sound of chewing.
Talking a lot was not allowed while eating. and needed to wait until the oldest person started to lift spoon and eat. and cannot put your arms on the table. don't shake your legs while eating.
it could be bit different by their family cultures. but basically it was common and similar.
Recently kind of traditional manners has been fainted.
and less chance to eat together with family and friends.
And some eating sounds and motions makes ppl want to eat. so many youtubers and medias make the sounds louder. and some ppl think it is okay.
I think Mukbang contents ruined everything...Slurping is a bad table manner in Korea too.
I found the historical information that you mentioned to be quite interesting. It really makes sense why the rest of the world knows so little about Korea. Thanks for this.
You are so spot on. Thank you for making this video so Koreans traveling abroad are aware of what not to do. Now I’m going to watch your video of what not to do as foreigners in Korea. It’s important that we all respect each other’s cultures
좋은 영상이라고 생각해요. 공감하는 바가 많습니다. 한국사회가 다소 예민한 구석이 있어서 말 한마디 하기가 참 힘든 시대인 것 같아요. 그냥 도움되는 건 참고하고 아니면 그냥 쿨하게 여유롭게 넘기고 ㅎㅎ
All of these sound about right. I would say with the restaurant bills, it depends on where you go. You can ask for the bill early on if you’re on a time limit. Some places do require to you to pay first or walk up to the counter after you’ve finished eating to pay. Also, the sharing of plates may depend on the group/people you’re out with for example work colleagues, we will eat off our own plates. But if with close friends or family, we do prefer sharing or eating “family style.”
Thanks for sharing Anna, sending you lots of love from Seattle, WA!
You shoulder check me it’s a wrap. Bc absolutely not. I don’t understand how the Korean society can place respect so high but the lack of respect they show to other is crazy.
“Not reacting” is well-meaning advice, but likely to backfire. You don’t have to choose only between doing nothing at all and “fighting with crazies.” If someone does something racist, you don’t have to shout at them or get into an argument. That’s stupid and only prolonging an unpleasant interaction. You can however: raise your eyebrows at them; shake your head slowly; look them straight in the eye…all these actions let them know they’ve crossed a line, you won’t stand for it, but without getting into a fight which can be unpredictable. Don’t stoop to their level but also don’t just keep mum (especially if you end up hating yourself for it). Racists know by and large they can get away with it, so just letting them know they’re out of line is already unusual and will make them think twice to do it to the next person.
Also, if you're being harassed or ridiculed in a public venue like a restaurant or bar, don't think you have to leave. It's totally acceptable to speak with the manager (or bouncer, security guard etc) and tell me what's going on. Especially if you're a woman, most places take harassment and racial slurs very seriously and may even ask the harassers to leave!
@@walkerlocker6126 that did not happen with Giannie Lee in Berlin. The perpetrators were allowed to stay
I think it depends on the city you’re in. In America restaurants are starting to be faster about getting your check because they want your table available, and you can always hunt down or grab the waitperson’s attention to bring you your check. That’s extremely common. Also, in Austin Texas I leave my bag on a table all the time while I order at the counter or go to the bathroom. Not all restaurants but most. And it depends on the part of town you’re in. Some cities and neighborhoods are safer than others.
Thanks, Anna 🏆. Two things I definitely agree. The courtesy of opening the door for someone at the back or front slamming the door would be considered super rude in Eastern Europe, Germany , and Switzerland . Also, if someone hits someone with a shoulder or brushes through, most likely , one would get a rude reply back or possibly a smash in the face, surely from the guys 😆, not from every guy, but most will show manliness , of course if u are also ,guy !
That noodle slurp edit was hilarious (Japanese slurp levels are same too lmao) 😂 Btw I see some comments about whether you’re more Korean or British and wanted to say: I’m of similar-ish background to you (born in Japan, fully Japanese, but lived in the US since 14 yrs old for 10+ yrs). Ppl think they can armchair diagnose ppl like us whether we’re more Western or Asian/home country. But THE FACT IS it’s way too f*cking complicated for anyone other than ourselves to understand our identity. Plus no one 100% fits the mold of their own country; they just think they do. We’re definitely Westernized but also way more Asian imbedded than anyone online can fully recognize. Just wanted to say that I get it. Great video!! 🫶🏼🩵
You think you know both bcuz you lived in both.
but you also can think that you don't know some parts of both.
I have my sister who lives in oversea over 20yrs.
she think she knows many part of korea bcuz she watching Korean medias and talk with us.
But she totally doesn't know what's going and how changed on this society.
specifically Korea society has changed speedy.
I got shocked when I came back to Korea after 2yrs from overseas.
@2:56, I completely agree. However, I wouldn’t call it “national pride”, rather it’s national insecurity and seeking approval from other nations for many. When you’re proud of you nation, you don’t seek brownie points.
so true.. for a nation that has perfected the art of butchering your body in pursuit of beauty this is rich
where did Korea touch you?@@mollyv4908
I think your recommendations are really practical and some of the topics can apply to anyone travelling away from their home country.
These were such interesting points, I like it. I'm from a small european country that's actually more homogeneous than SK lmao (so some of the locals can be rude) and we get A LOT of east asian tourists - mostly korean and chinese. They love it here. And to be honest I never experienced any of these stuff from them. Interesting. Also, I've traveled a lot in Europe and a few asian countries and haven't had any negative experiences with korean people. Honestly they mush together with us and I don't even notice them most of the time here lmao. Tho I'm scared if I'll have a verbal fight with some rude old korean person who is a tourist here lmao ...it's only because of the hierarchy...we are not used to that. You show respect to me, I show respect to you, or other way around...it's as simple as that here...
In fact, it is true that Koreans in their 60s and older generally have little difference on average in their environment, values, and life experiences with Chinese people of the same generation. Unless they have lived in a few wealthy families, they have experienced poverty well, and many people have devoted their entire day to working hard for more than half a day except for sleeping and eating, and they were still familiar with Confucian culture deep in large families
People's Republic of China also had similar travel restrictions, but now my cousins and aunts have passports and funds to travel, they have travelled to neighbouring SE Asia. Trying to get them to visit us in 🇿🇦
I just cannot get over the not holding the door thing. It’s just baffling, what if the person behind you is an elder? What about respect for elders? It’s just plain rude! It’s not that hard to do either. It’s in direct opposition to the overly honorific way of speaking, I guess Koreans make up for being subservient to elders by slamming the door in the face of someone they don’t know 😂
I live in the West (Canada), at every restaurant you just ask your server for your bill. You don’t have to wait until they bring it too you.
Yes. If you let the server know to bring the bill mid meal they will happily do it. They don't want to bring bill early because it's seen as "rude/rushing" customers off the table. They want them to enjoy taking their time eating the meal.
I saw ppl bringing kimchi into restaurants in my country, Malaysia 😂 but we are quite lenient in most types of restaurants, so it was okay
Love Kimchi. Now I have eat rice with curry, porial and Kimchi lol..
Great advice, Anna. I find myself nodding with everything you said.
You can flag the waiter for the bill in most restaurants in the UK. Also there is a fantastic little Korean restaurant in the Blackfriars area in London. So popular and busy. Well recommended ❤
The doors was a cultural shock when I experienced this in SK.
It's the same in Japan.
I'm Chinese American and definitely love the family style eating. Sometimes I do just want to eat off my own plate or maybe I'm at a restaurant where most of the dishes don't appeal to me. Then sometimes i eat off my own plate ehile the rest of my friends share. But you're right, lots of Americans don't do family style. Which seems strange to me but it's how they were raised.
My children are Asian and this happens all the time people coming up to us they say my children and baby so cute and beautiful they wanna hug and carry her and I have to stop them from trying to touch and take photos. A lot of them wanna take photos and videos too. I don’t like it, especially it’s dumb rude to do this without asking permission first or if I am okay with it. A lot of them just take their phones up to take photos and videos. I have to tell them don’t and stop them. Very weird people and no manners. I want to slap their damn phones or whatever out of their hand. You should ask first if people are okay with it. And they are trying to come too close.
Surprising that Koreans would want to take pictures of Asian babies. They can do that at home the cutest babies are from Korea and Japan. It makes sense they would want to take a picture with a Caucasian baby though.
We Chinese, when going to eat in a Chinese restaurant in 🇿🇦, we order food and share family style. When we go to a western type restaurant, eg steak or seafood, then we each order our own individual meal.
Regarding racist remarks, as someone who lives in the largest city in America, you don't know how unstable they are or what weapons they may be carrying. It's Def not worth risking your own life to fight back at them. It's super annoying and I hate feeding into this idea that Asian people are meek or submissive. We're not. In Asia, we would argue on the streets and fight back with our own kind of people over anything negative. But see, in some parts of Asia, crime is relatively low. You don't have to worry as much about it. Most people aren't carrying weapons and won't shoot you over an insult. But here in the US there are so many crazy people walking around with machetes and guns. It's not worth it. It sucks and it hurts but it's not worth it.
레스토랑에서 한국처럼 직원이 안내하기 전에 원하는 아무 자리에 앉아서 메뉴판 달라고 쳐다보시면 진짜 무례한 사람으로 낙인찍힙니다… 무시당해요(패스트푸드점, 셀프서비스인곳등 제외)
Anna I love you and I love this video. This applies to everyone visiting a foreign country. Respect the country’s culture. But one thing that does annoy me is the spitting on the street, and littering. I’m in the US and I just feel like America is dirty except in the tourists areas. I walk down the street looking at the ground making sure I don’t step in spit, poop, and food. Although it’s not customary to take our shoes off before entering the home as it is in your country, in my house it is mandatory because the streets are nasty and I don’t want that nastiness in my house. When I visit SK I will still hold the door and I don’t care if they don’t do it for me. I’m just a caring person by nature.
About the holding door thing, I used to hold it when I lived in the UK. And start to hold less when back to HK, specially after covid, cos ppl tend to use their foot to open the door 😂
I'm originally from HK too but grew up in the UK I didn't know about the foot thing good to know cause I might be going back to HK again soon 😂
@@moglom93 Not much now compare to the time during Covid, but some might do lol
In Australia u still open door for ppl to pass to be polite
Very good points, especially holding your bags clothes to you & phones.
I am a NYer and anytime I go travel, my bags & personal items stay close. Best practice ever.
Thank you for your always sharing great information.
Crossbody bags under jackets. Backpacks with locks or worn in front.
I think the sharing food thing is fun personally, I am American and my immediate family does it a lot at restaurants, but it depends on what you order...not all dishes are easy and hygienic to share...sandwiches verses pasta for instance.
해외에서 예쁜 아기 보면 그냥 예쁘네 하고 그냥 지나가세요. 계속 응시하지 마시고 손으로 아기 만지면 안됩니다. 요새는 한국에서도 남의 아기 예쁘다고 함부로 만지면 큰 싸움 납니다.
If you will view a cute baby abroad a countrys, just think it's pretty and get by. Don't continue to staring and don't touch the baby with your hands. These days, even though in Korea, if they will be touched the baby who don't know even though it's a pretty baby, that could be a huge fight.
Im malaysian and there are many korean tourist here in malaysia, i remember that one time i was in starbuck and went to the restroom to do my thing, and i just took a seat and then suddenly there was someone knocking the door, i was shocked at first but i thought okay since they knew someone is inside they would probably stop, but no they keep knocking the door repeatedly, and then i got annoyed but its not like i can pause my business ahaha so after washing my hand and open the door i saw a korean lady infront just went in straight, their ppali ppali culture are really a habit and i wish they knew not to do that in other countries. Great video for knowledge 👍🏻
That made me laugh ppali ppali hurry hurry when you are on the loo!! 😂😂🇬🇧🇺🇸🇰🇷
I visited South Korea 20 years ago and plan to go again next year to see how much it has changed. Many aspects mentioned in the video are similar to mainland China, which makes sense as South Korea is connected to the mainland, unlike Japan, which shares parallels with the UK.
Anna, this video is very interesting, especially that Koreans weren’t allowed free travel until 1989!!
As a British born Asian, I don’t often see Korean visitors in the UK, not in the north anyway. I’ve seen them in London as my Korean friend came to visit and at a BTS concert at Wembley too.
I haven’t seen this type of behaviour of Koreans approaching babies and taking photos. If they were to ask, I think I would be ok. You see I’m guilty of doing it myself. I’ve asked in Italy, Morocco and just last month in Bangladesh and they all said yes. It’s just I find them cute or photogenic and I like carrying my camera. I enjoy photographing people.
I share meals with my family as I think it’s an Asian thing, even south Asian.
Yep, I’m used to the slow service in restaurants but it’s not slow, that’s just the pace of UK.
I haven’t seen your other video of telling foreigners what to expect in Korea, but having visited the country last year, I found that I was pleasantly surprised by how nice and friendly Koreans can be.
I'm glad you had a nice experience! :)
I went to Korea my first time in September 2023. People were really nice to me. I didn’t see the spitting or the slurping of noodles. I’m glad for that. I have to come back there. That country is good for my self-esteem. People were saying the nicest things to me. I like your comments and your English accent is awesome!
Usually if I am in a rush or I know a certain restaurant take a long time, as soon as they bring my food I will ask for the bill. That way it its on the table you can put your card down and as you eat you can pay for the food. So when you are ready to leave you can just get up and go. I have noticed many places are now giving you receipts with a QR code so that you can pay on your won as well. And if you want to add onto you order and you have already payed just ask the the bill as soon as you order and it will come out with your food.
I would not mind a Korean asking me if I know this or that thing about Korea. It is actually a cute social approach, a way to build friendship.
오오 이거 저도 원했던 건데 딱 좋은 타이밍에 올려주셔서 감사드립니다ㅋㅋㅋ
안그래도 3월에 유럽여행 혼자 가거든요
기존에 알고 있던 것도 있었고 모르는 것도 있어서 정말 도움됐어요!!😏
하나 더 질문 드리고 싶은게 있는데 외국에서 유툽 촬영이나 이런 거 할때 자유롭게 하셨었는지 궁금합니다!! 여행 브이로그 하거 싶어서요!
좋은 영상 감사드립니다~~
폰으로 하실거면 손목스트랩 사시는 걸 추천해요 소매치기 방지용! 그리고 카메라 들고 다니면서 주절주절하면 사람들이 쳐다보고 말도 걸 수 있는데 그건 인종차별이 아니라 그냥 어느 나라 유튜버든 다 관종이라고 생각할 수 있어서 속상할 필요는 없어요 ㅋㅋㅋ
여행 잘 하시길!!
I really like the way you educate us in the videos! I suppose it takes more work and time to research histories and other stuff… I really like your contents!!!!
Thank you~😊
ruclips.net/video/tnSkQEEFpMk/видео.html
Here in the UK, there is a massive litter issue. However, it's becoming more frowned upon. During the 80's, 90's etc, folk could get away with dropping large pieces of litter in plain view, but now, it's not uncommon to see others picking the perpetrator up on their behaviour.
6:35 sharing food. HK people used to do the same, but for more than 20 years, restaurants have been putting out communal chopsticks for picking up food from the shared dishes.
In Barcelona, I encountered a pickpocketer. They almost had us. And the part about making noise while eating is real😂 westerners hate smacking
FYI in the US you can usually ask to pay the bill in advance when you're ordering at the table. I've done this a few times when I was in a hurry and didn't want to wait forever after I ate to get the bill. The caveat is that the US is big on tip culture so if someone was not a good server and you paid the bill in advance, then you have no recourse to get your tip back. Personally I don't like tip culture. But that's a whole other irrelevant conversation
And as an American born Chinese, I was shocked that in Taiwan you can also leave your bag to save your place at a cafe or food court. I would never dare do this in the US. Even in Taiwan I didn't trust it so I would just leave an umbrella or sweater. Lol.
I don't expect that but I met many many nice ppl who hold the door for me whole of my life in Korea. And always say thank you to them. and I aldo do it for others. and I think that it is also kind of timing each other. some ppl doesn't want touch the door bar nowdays. I push the door by my body sometimes.
Right! I really hate the cigarettes.
Yes 👍🏽 ANNA everything you shared is both interesting and accurate. For me …you’re an intelligent and culturally aware S. KOREAN. Great insight and episode. 🙋🏻♀️🥰✅
Nice video Anna! I used to live in Korea from 2013-18. I agree with everything you said here. Maybe except the last point about racist remarks. For Asians not to respond to racism actually contributes to it because it makes them think we’re an easy target and will probably do it to the next Asian person they see.
Hi Anna,
I watch kdramas and lots of non Korean people comment about people eating with their mouth open on the shows. I find it cringe bc I am Korean but grew up in the states. Also the elder people doing what they want is really annoying. Lots of elderly Korean people living in the states still act like it’s Korea. Really rude.
I must agree.
Ordering and paying at a restaurant in the UK depends on each individual place. If you have to wait to be seated there will be a sign to say that otherwise you just find a seat and then the server will come to you or there will be a sign to say that you order at the bar or at the counter. If they are taking too long to come to you then by all means signal to a server or get up and ask the nearest one. Don't sit ands take it. They should be with you to take your drinks order within a few minutes or don't bother to stay. Don't be afraid to send food back which isn't cooked or heated properly but don't be an idiot and complain just to get free food. If you just don't like what you've ordered you might be able to get an alternative but expect to pay for it. If they are slow bringing you the bill find a server and request it. It's poor service to keep a customer waiting.
I wear a cross body close fitting bag which deters pickpockets. I haven't visited Korea yet but Japan is supposed to be safe but a lady on my tour had to stop a guy picking her pocket in Tokyo. Do not put your wallet or phone in your backpack and wear a bum bag with the opening in front of you. Being elderly gives you the right to be respected like anyone else but you need to be polite too. Hopefully people on the buses or tubes will stand for you but some people are not well mannered and see no need to be kind. Queueing is expected in the UK. Unfortunately so is tipping.
what is supposed to be 😂in Japan. The thieves are everywhere in the world.
Just we have less cases compare to other countries. You already know.
5:42 In Italy it’s normal to go up to couples who have a baby and start a conversation with the baby or kid. We love kids here and if you have a child we usually like to give them compliments or entertain them in some ways or make them laugh. You might also experience old ladies who will squeeze your baby’s cheeks or feet. We usually don’t ask for pics though that would be weird here too. In Florence happened the opposite, I was there with my two Korean friends and an Italian child of around 4-5 years old wanted to take a pic of my friends to show off his new camera (parent’s one😂) and said they were beautiful. Italy is a very friendly country for children and animals in general. So if Koreans wants to chat with babies and children here we are very accepting of this behaviour❤
I loved bringing my children to Italy when they were little. The Italians were so nice to them.
As someone who is heavily in the K-pop sphere learning about travel for Koreans only being freely open for the last 35 years explains a lot.
Could you explain a little about what you're talking about? I'm not as knowledgeable about kpop but very interested in how a culture would be affected by a lack of travel abroad up until so recently
Hi Anna, that shoulder thing. I actually noticed that when I went to Seoul And I found it really impolite and disrespectful. Also, the door is so true. Im from London though.
I’m a French living in France but honestly waiting 30 minutes to get the bill is infuriating 😅 maybe I already have the palli palli culture
hey anna, i’m absolutely invested on your contents for my south korea trip on july 2024. i’m taking your recommendations far too seriously even i added them to my to-do list! have you ever considered to make a tour video about kbeauty shops and your suggestions?
I agree with you on all of these, though on some of them to a lesser extent. The act of slurping has taken some getting used to when I’ve been in Korea, since I was brought up with the concept of not being a goop: “the goops they talk while eating, and loud and fast they chew.”
My feeling is that brushing past someone is not necessarily a huge deal, but knocking into someone definitely is definitely shocking, especially in an open space, and warrants an apology. I’ve felt incensed when it’s happened to me. I remember a Scottish friend, back in the late 1970s, telling me what to say when in a grocery store and needing to get past someone blocking an aisle. As I recall, it was “sorry” rather than “excuse me,” which is what we would say in the U.S. I don’t recall when “pardon me” is supposed to be used.
Anyway, your list contains pointers that are useful for tourists visiting Korea to know what they might expect. Thx!
I am in Seoul currently and coincidentally today it happened that a girl purposely shut the door, that was in an open position. Couldn't believe this bullcrappery.
Yes, big tourist places like Barcelona, Paris, etc. You should be careful of your luckage and bags. The more showy, gets you targeted for sure.
Slurping is considered very rude table manners, just like having a hat/cap on your head while you are eating.
My Asian friends introduced me to food sharing, and I love it. I agree with you that it is a shame everyone doesn't do it.
People do share food with each other, this is not only common to Korea. Easter Europeans always do. In fact, they will not let you go, unless u try everything on the table. U, Anna have not been in many countries. So, before u say " only in Korea" you should visit other countries and learn about their hospitality.
As a foreign living and married in korea it's all the things i keep telling my husband 😅 one more thing i wish korean people would actually try european food instead of eating noodles in their hotel room 😅
I’m not Korean but Central/South Asian and me and my family have lived in the West for a while now but even we still do things similar to Koreans abroad 😂 the older people in my family always shove people out the way hahah, my family get so impatient at restaurants or eating out, we always share when eating, and sometimes the men spit on the floor too (gross and they don’t do it anymore but in the past yes). Anyway! I guess cultures from all around the world are more similar then we realise!!
In Australia people often share food, especially if it’s Thai, Chinese, Indian etc but whereas if it’s Italian or Aussie food then you usually have an individual serve.
I find the whole age hierarchy in Korea to be strange as it seems to be based purely on seniority rather than actual ability. Also the same with honorifics, the fact you have to address someone who’s just a week older than yourself by a certain name comes across as being subservient to that person, which seems especially backward in the 21st century.
I never heard about the travel restrictions.
Sharing food is so good, I would really appreciate it in my country as well.
Very informative, thanks Anna. You're awesome! Oh btw, fellow ARMY here
Me too
Thanks for providing that information at the beginning about travel restrictions. I do wonder if Korean travelers mention well-known nationals as a way to bridge a cultural gap and not just to be patriotic. It's something I'd likely do, but I'm 63 and Southern 😂
As a Filipino, not an American. In the United States, if you enter a cafe and leave your belongings on the table, it means you have already taken the table, but you must inform the person next to you who is looking at your belongings when you need to use the restroom or something if they do not mind taking care of your belongings until you return. That is the way things are done in America. If you did not tell someone next to you to keep an eye on your belongings, they may have been stolen.
Exactly. This is also how we Americans handle leaving our luggage to use the restroom at a train station or airport
Omg the eating I have to mute if I see there is a eating seen hearing the sound of someone eating is disgusting thank you for bringing it up, also I heard it's not part of your culture it was a trend brought by some movies
You can strive comfortably in both cultures, that's cool!
Hi Anna, I think this is not only a Korean issue, it's the same with most races. Unfortunately, most people assume that what's acceptable at home is acceptable in other countries.
Your hair is darker than the galaxy, so shiny and pretty
Good to know. Understand totally. I think every culture is like this with different areas. Thank you
Koreans seem to be pretty fixed on visiting the big cities, but small towns and the countryside have some real gems to be explored. They're also much safer and small European towns still have decent public transport, if you don't want to rent a car.
Another thing to keep in mind are public holidays in Europe. One of my Korean friends decided to spend a long weekend in Germany during the Easter holidays. She ended up being a bit disappointed because almost everything was closed except on Saturday.
When youre at a german restaurant you may ask customers to have an eye on your bag. I think most of the time they will agree and will watch your stuff with "Argusaugen".
As an American if I’m eating with foreigners I’m going to eat however they want, they are my guests, if that means we are all sharing multiple dishes then that’s fine. If that means we are all eating separate dishes that is also fine. If it means I’m paying the whole bill instead of splitting it that is also fine. Again, they are *my guests* I’m going to do whatever makes them the most comfortable.
Thank you! I was genuinely shocked to learn about 어깨빵 😳. It was also interesting to learn about the traveling bans.
Hi Anna,
We do share food sometimes in America lol. Some restaurants do “small plates” where a group may come in and order several small plate items off the menu and then share amongst themselves, but everyone still takes the piece they want and puts it on their own personal plate to eat off of. So small plate venues do allow you to try different items if you want that setting
Of course I know there's sharing but from my general experience, Koreans do it way more in general!
What did the Korean government try to achieve by limiting international traveling?
As a southern American male I was raised to always hold the door for other people. It’s so ingrained in me that I do it reflexively.
The only Place in Europe where your bag will not be stolen if you leave it for 5 seconds is everywhere in Germany. Germans do really care about there surroundings and are also very concerned about what people could think about them if they do something bad. 🤭
I would add the nordic countries to the list. I am German but live in Iceland. Here, people even leave their babies napping outside
What are you talking about? People steal in Germany and I know a lot of Korean students who got their bags or phones stolen especially in crowded places.
it would be better than in Italy and france but We exactly don't know what is happening outside of our house. someone still stolen money and phone in Germany. 😢
i dont agree at all any city in the west will have thiefs and pickpockets germany is no exception
Idk I feel like outside of london (I'm from the South), people are much less likely to just grab your bag, I used to just pop my bag on my laptop when going to the loo in cafes or if it was really busy, ask someone to keep an eye. People tend to look out for each other still.
It would be great to hear your thoughts and even have a comparison between the UK and Japan. I see many parallels, as both countries are island nations with similar etiquettes and are quite different from their respective neighboring countries.
I'll mention one thing that I know may be specific to the U.S., having only been to a few places in Europe (although I suspect that Europeans aren't that different from us in this respect): wearing a lot of luxury logos is not only a safety hazard; it's often considered in poor taste. Walking around covered in luxury logos is just less socially acceptable in the U.S. The ultra-rich - whether they're East Coast old money or Silicon Valley new money - generally don't do it. With the exception of your car and your house, status symbols tend to be more low-key. Flashing a brand new bag with an obvious logo on it is more annoying than impressive. Quiet luxury is the classy thing here. It's purely cultural: the United States was formed on the idea that everyone is created equal, and that ideal tends to permeate our thinking.
Where I live in the San Francisco Bay Area, it's even more so: billionaires go to Costco to buy TVs in $40 jeans from Old Navy. And California has more millionaires and billionaires than any other state in the country. But even in Los Angeles, which is culturally very different from the San Francisco Bay Area, wearing luxury logos all over yourself is likely to cause a lot of exasperated mental eye-rolling from people thinking you're a bit trashy. (We also have a way of repeating Rousseau: "Eat the rich." So there's that.) Again: purely cultural and an artifact of our history. We never had a monarchy or a formally recognized nobility.
You do not have to wait for the bill at a restaurant in the U.S. Flag down a server and ask for it, politely. It's considered rude to treat servers as functionaries; they deserve courtesy and respect just like anyone else doing an honest job, so we like everyone to treat them accordingly. That goes for flight attendants on an airplane; cashiers at a grocery or convenience store; sanitation workers: everyone. But if you need your bill because you need to make it to a theater for curtain, for example, it's perfectly normal and acceptable to signal a server and politely request it. Europeans are more likely to view a restaurant meal as an experience and something to be enjoyed at leisure (la dolce vita) but in the U.S. it's fine to be in a rush and say so, as long as you're polite about it.
It's also worth noting that when you talk about the United States (not talking about Europe here), the U.S. is huge, so there are a lot of regional differences in the way that people will react to tourists from any country. A LOT. My home state of California all by itself is so large that the entire Republic of Korea would fit inside it four times with room left over, and California isn't even the largest state in the U.S. (it's the third largest). In a city like New York City, Washington DC, San Francisco, or Los Angeles, tourists from Korea would barely attract any attention at all - those cities get lots of tourists from all over the world - and are less likely to be a target of racist remarks. Other parts of the country are very, very different.
i feel like it's more accurate to replace "abroad" with "the west". not everywhere in the world is represented by western customs 😛 for e.g. i know many places where people won't hold the door for u either
This totally explains that scene from Crash Landing On You where Ri Jeong Hyeok was holding the door for people. Sure, it might have been exaggerated but I just found it funny how everyone casually started filming him 😂
You mentioned NOT tipping in Korea in your other video-- conversely, it's considered rude NOT to tip your waitstaff at a sit-down restaurant in the U.S., The wage structure is different for servers, and therefore they DO rely on tips to help make up their income.
I would say that if you want to experience service similar to how you would in Korea… I would recommend going to places that are ran by Koreans that grew up in Korea.. yes it will be Americanized but still similar
Pretty Anna!!! 🖤🖤 Thanks over the history, didn't know that about the flights in the past. 😧😧 Missed your regular content and looking forward for more. Like this reversal content, to see it both ways. 🤩🤩
I completely agree regarding spitting and tossing cigarette butts. It's not cool at all, but such behaviour just shows a lack of etiquette, consideration and hygiene. Not gonna lie I was really shocked to witness such behavior in person one night while traveling in Korea. The cigarette butt nearly landed close to me as I waited in line for street food. 😅
I often watch youtube & see groups of Koreans out for dinner sharing their food & using chopsticks that have just been in their mouth to then pick up food with those same chopsticks from a shared platter of food. In the West this is a big no lol. Def gonna get some grossed out looks if you try that here haha 😂♥️
try to practice to pick one piece of foods by chopstick 😂😂
Yeah I would agree with the racist remarks etc. I'm from England, and I've seen a lot of this. I can say that it is a shameful way to behave and honestly, I would encourage you not to engage with these people, because most of them are trying to get a raise out of you so they can have an argument or get more abusive. Just ignore them full stop. Also, there is something I do, and I've seen others in my country do this too... if I see someone being racist towards foreigners in a shop, I will try to make eye contact with the foreigner to let them know I have their back, and I will stick close to the foreigner so that I can protect them or defend them if the racist person becomes worse. There is a certain time a lot of local people here WILL jump in and tell the racist person to get lost, and we will stand beside and in front of the foreigner to defend them, even if they have lived here for a long time and just look different. So, please look out for kind people trying to make eye contact with you while you're experiencing racism. I'm in the North East of England, and there are a LOT of protective people up here. :D
P.s. I am also female, so we can also be protective up here. Also if you feel intimidated, please mention this to a shop assistant or ask to see the shop manager and they will help
When it comes to harassing strangers, England is one of the worst from my experience. Especially guilty are many of the youths there that roam the English towns in their tracksuits and hoodies.
Same here. I live in Northumberland.
I would like to share my experience as a non-Korean who has been to South Korea. I am a (Chinese) Singaporean and when I tell Koreans that I am from Singapore, they would sometimes say that I look Korean and I can see that they meant it as a compliment. I was a little confused as to how to react although I appreciate the well intent. You are spot on about Koreans asking non-Koreans if they know Kpop and stuff cuz I experienced that myself. Also, I once knew this Korean guy in Singapore who often wear a shirt with a South Korean flag. It is almost as though he wants everyone to know that he is Korean lol.
Also another thing to remember: Those whose hair texture that is kinky or curly may not take too kindly to those curious to touch it without permission, even if asked. I’ve had some well meaning folks from other countries that do that.
With the bill, at least in sweden, we signal the waiter to come to the table and then ask for the bill. The bill isnt automatically brought to you, think just to clarify so people dont think they should just sit and wait and not signal. Most european countries.
what people can do (well that's what i do here in France), when the waiter/waitress comes to your table to ask if you want a coffee after your dessert, you just mention that you want the bill too. So they are quicker this way.
Ver informative!
I love the slurping part. I actually wonder why Koreans eat like that. I heard that Japanese people too and other Asian countries say that slurping your noodles show that you appreciate the food and show gratitude to the hosts or the restaurants. I don’t know if that’s true. I understand holding the door for the person who is immediately behind you. It shows kindness. To Koreans, be careful not to slam the door on a child or to an elderly. 😢
OMG yes the spitting 😮on the streets 😝all true not only in Korea but also Hong Kong, Bangkok etc.!! 😅
❤ its really useful sis
So interesting!Last part is so damn sad, though: to know that most of you have experienced (blatant) racism abroad. It’s heartbreaking. Your advice is sound, to ignore them and let karma take care of them.