Teach English in South Korea, World English Service Ltd. - People

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The Korean People

The Koreans are descendants of a number of tribes who migrated into the peninsula over the centuries from Central Asia, Manchuria, Siberia, and other spots on the continent. Over several thousand years they have developed into a highly homeogenous people.

While sharing physical characteristics with other peoples in the Mongoloid race as well as certain patterns with other nations as part of the great Sinitic world, the Koreans remain fiercely independent and distinctive in their culture, language, dress, and cuisine.

Koreans are noted for their hospitality; but they can also be famous for their abruptness and lack of manners. It is important that you take the time to understand the complexities of their daily living and attitudes, rather than make comparisons and judgments about things you see and hear.

You will always be able to receive help when you need it, and Koreans are always eager to speak with and share the company of Westerners More likely than not, they will assist you in discovering their great land and its traditions and customs. Their sincerity and concern for foreigners in their country is surprising and even heartwarming.

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Korean names almost invariably consist of three Chinese characters that are pronounced with three Korean syllables. The family name comes first and the remaining two characters form the given name, of which one character often identifies the generation.

There are about 300 family names in Korea, but only a handful of them cover the vast majority of the population. Among the most common names are Kim, Lee, Park, Chung, Choe, Kang, Yoon and Alm.

Korean women do not change their family name with marriage. Koreans do not refer to others by their given name except among very close friends. Even among siblings, the younger ones are not supposed to address the elder ones by given names.

Design & development by Karere.

Korean students

Korean students

Dreaming old Korean style

Dreaming old Korean style

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