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Culture Sources
1) Curious about learning more about South Korean culture and customs? Be sure to check out: http://www.kwintessential.co.uk/resources/global-etiquette/south-korea-country-profile.html This website outlines traditional Korean family values, language, basic geographic facts, religion, ancestry, and Korean etiquette! This is a great website because it ensures that you do not offend any person while visiting Korea. Learn what is respected in casual and business relationships and more about Korean culture. 2) Still curious about Korean culture? Check out this great page: http://www.learnkoreanlanguage.com/Korean-Culture.html. It outlines geography, language, major cities, tradition, religion, holidays and so much more. Each section is broken up into easy to read portions and includes short bits about key aspects of Korean life! |
Seoul, South Korea is the one of the most populated cities and is also the home for many Buddhist temples. Buddhism is the nations official religion. Many Buddhist temples were establish here early in South Korean history. Buddhism represents the religious culture in South Korea.
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Country Demographic Data
Life Expectancy at Birth: 79.55 years
Unemployment Rate: 3.2%
Religions: Christian 31.6%, Buddhist 24.2%, Other 44.2%
Population Growth Rate: 0.18%
Mother's mean age at first birth: 29.6 years
Contraceptive Prevalence Rate: 80%
Source: CIAFACTBOOK
Life Expectancy at Birth: 79.55 years
Unemployment Rate: 3.2%
Religions: Christian 31.6%, Buddhist 24.2%, Other 44.2%
Population Growth Rate: 0.18%
Mother's mean age at first birth: 29.6 years
Contraceptive Prevalence Rate: 80%
Source: CIAFACTBOOK
[Figure 1: New Births] This image shows the change in number of new births per year in South Korea from the 1800s to 2012. As you can see the number of new births has increased exponentially over the years. When reviewing the countries demographic data you can see that there is an 18% growth rate, which means the population will gradually rise over the next few years.
[Figure 2: Contraception Rate] This chart shows the increased frequency of contraception from the 1800s to the late 2000s. You can see a fairly steady increase over time as more and more people realize the importance of contraception (prevention of disease, population stability etc). The information provided on the CIA Factbook shows that the rate of contraception is 80% and this chart supports this information by displaying the overall increase.
[Figure 3: Employment Rate] This chart is a bit different because it shows South Korea in comparison to the other countries in a world view. The indicator used for comparison was the employment rate for individuals aged 15-24. In comparison to other countries this number is fairly low, due to factors that will be discussed later. South Korea is at a job disadvantage probably due to global location and level of trade in comparison to the other countries.
South Korea has grown and developed dramatically since the 1800s. The graphs above analyze the change in population, births, fertilities and the available job rate. The most interesting graphs to observe have to do with South Korean population. It appears that the people are very good at managing fertility and the women are waiting till they are a little older to have children (See figure 1&2). The number of new births have increased though, probably due to the increase of good healthcare, disease prevention, and a stable environment. Most of the charts show an exponential form of growth, which is promising for the country of South Korea. Although, due to the size and space available the people of South Korea will need to consider how they will best support their growing population. On the other hand, jobs are limited in South Korea compared to other larger countries (See figure 3). How will the younger generations be able to support a bigger lifestyle? The Korean people are gradually reaching their carrying capacity and will need to conserve resources.
South Korea: Religions
“No one saves us but ourselves. No one can and no one may. We ourselves must walk the path”- Gautama Buddha, Sayings of Buddha.
South Korea, a once united Korea with the North, is a land of many religions. Korea is unique in this way because instead of one formal religion it respects and appreciates the diversity of many. The origin of Korean religion is often debated because there is no exact time or place of creation, but many credit the first Korean religion to Shamanism. Its ancient teachings can be derived from all around the globe. Shamanism involves, “shamanic practitioners making journeys or soul-flights to other realities in order to bring back advice, help, or soul-parts for the individual or community” (Miller). Many of these ancient practices were based on the idea of spirits in the natural world and how to harness that energy. Shamans were also known for their special dances, medicines, and ceremonies, which allowed them to connect with the other worlds. In some time, the rise of Buddhism came into practice as monks made their way from China to Korea, during this time “many magnificently decorated temple were built and thousands are still to be found today” (Kraig, 2013). In the 17th century Christianity gained much popularity after missionaries visited Korea and began to educate many of the young Koreans. Many Confucian ideologies discouraged and persecuted those who practiced the Christian faith. As the lower classes began to up rise, Christianity was deemed as a normal practice and with the addition of the “U.S. Army Military Government in Korea and the establishment of the First Republic, South Korea was ruled as a Christian nation” (Koo) and today, ‘about fifty-one percent of Koreans are Christians” (Kraig, 2013).
Korean people believe in the meaning behind their most popular religions. They are practical and hope to live a life of good will. The Republic of Korea’s flag represented this simplicity in life and represents a “sense of harmony and balance” (Kraig, 2013). This harmony and balance accurately represented the balance that can be found between their many diverse religions. Although, history shows that not all religions where happily accepted when they were first established. Koreans practice an “instrumentalist approach to religious life, meaning they subscribe to any religion as long as it proves beneficial to their goals here and now” (Koo). The Korean people take great pride in their homeland and the many beautiful landmarks that reside here, especially their Temples, which have tested time. Religion is more then just that, religion, it is a way of life, which unites Korean people, both native and foreign.
Korea is home to thousands of unique Buddhist Temples, which are still appreciated by South Koreans natives and tourists alike. Buddhism focuses on living a life full of enlightenment and what better place to put a Temple which will bring you serenity but by a mountain, sea, river, or valley. Some of the “major temples are Tongdosa Temple and Beopheungsa Temple where sarira (relics of the Buddha) are kept; Haeinsa Temple, depository of the Goryeo Daejanggyeong (Tripitaka Koreana wooden printing blocks) which are on UNESCO’s Memory of the World list; Bongeunsa Temple and Hwagyesa Temple, well-known for temple stay programs; and Baekdamsa Temple and Naksansa Temple with their splendid natural landscapes” (Cultural Corps of Korean Buddhism).
South Korean government respects the idea that individuals should be able to practice religious freedom. There is no current state religion and no government established requirements for religious practices. Although citizens are not allowed to avoid serving in the armed forces due to religious beliefs. Unlike those in the North, those in South Korea are given much more freedom (Koo).
South Korean people are a diverse group of individuals who have the freedom to practice any religion they desire. This acceptance of others is unique in South Korea as it is ironic that only slightly up in the North, people are being forced to follow a very strict set of rules for all aspects of life. In the beginning of this essay, there is a quote from a Buddhist man who mentions that “we ourselves must walk the path”. This is true for every aspect of life no matter the country in which an individual may live. Religion is part of a person, or part of a country but it’s the life that the person lives that determines the results of their path.
References:
Cultural Corps of Korean Buddhism (n.d.). Major buddhist temples in korea. Retrieved from http://asiaenglish.visitkorea.or.kr/ena/RE/RE_EN_1_1_3_1.jsp
Koo, S. (n.d.). Religions of korea yesterday and today. Retrieved fromhttp://spice.stanford.edu/docs/religions_of_korea_yesterday_and_today/
Kraig, B. (2013). Hidden korea: Religion. Retrieved from http://www.pbs.org/hiddenkorea/religion.htm
Miller, C. (n.d.). Shamanism . Retrieved from http://www.arizonahealingtours.com/shamanic/SJ2.html
“No one saves us but ourselves. No one can and no one may. We ourselves must walk the path”- Gautama Buddha, Sayings of Buddha.
South Korea, a once united Korea with the North, is a land of many religions. Korea is unique in this way because instead of one formal religion it respects and appreciates the diversity of many. The origin of Korean religion is often debated because there is no exact time or place of creation, but many credit the first Korean religion to Shamanism. Its ancient teachings can be derived from all around the globe. Shamanism involves, “shamanic practitioners making journeys or soul-flights to other realities in order to bring back advice, help, or soul-parts for the individual or community” (Miller). Many of these ancient practices were based on the idea of spirits in the natural world and how to harness that energy. Shamans were also known for their special dances, medicines, and ceremonies, which allowed them to connect with the other worlds. In some time, the rise of Buddhism came into practice as monks made their way from China to Korea, during this time “many magnificently decorated temple were built and thousands are still to be found today” (Kraig, 2013). In the 17th century Christianity gained much popularity after missionaries visited Korea and began to educate many of the young Koreans. Many Confucian ideologies discouraged and persecuted those who practiced the Christian faith. As the lower classes began to up rise, Christianity was deemed as a normal practice and with the addition of the “U.S. Army Military Government in Korea and the establishment of the First Republic, South Korea was ruled as a Christian nation” (Koo) and today, ‘about fifty-one percent of Koreans are Christians” (Kraig, 2013).
Korean people believe in the meaning behind their most popular religions. They are practical and hope to live a life of good will. The Republic of Korea’s flag represented this simplicity in life and represents a “sense of harmony and balance” (Kraig, 2013). This harmony and balance accurately represented the balance that can be found between their many diverse religions. Although, history shows that not all religions where happily accepted when they were first established. Koreans practice an “instrumentalist approach to religious life, meaning they subscribe to any religion as long as it proves beneficial to their goals here and now” (Koo). The Korean people take great pride in their homeland and the many beautiful landmarks that reside here, especially their Temples, which have tested time. Religion is more then just that, religion, it is a way of life, which unites Korean people, both native and foreign.
Korea is home to thousands of unique Buddhist Temples, which are still appreciated by South Koreans natives and tourists alike. Buddhism focuses on living a life full of enlightenment and what better place to put a Temple which will bring you serenity but by a mountain, sea, river, or valley. Some of the “major temples are Tongdosa Temple and Beopheungsa Temple where sarira (relics of the Buddha) are kept; Haeinsa Temple, depository of the Goryeo Daejanggyeong (Tripitaka Koreana wooden printing blocks) which are on UNESCO’s Memory of the World list; Bongeunsa Temple and Hwagyesa Temple, well-known for temple stay programs; and Baekdamsa Temple and Naksansa Temple with their splendid natural landscapes” (Cultural Corps of Korean Buddhism).
South Korean government respects the idea that individuals should be able to practice religious freedom. There is no current state religion and no government established requirements for religious practices. Although citizens are not allowed to avoid serving in the armed forces due to religious beliefs. Unlike those in the North, those in South Korea are given much more freedom (Koo).
South Korean people are a diverse group of individuals who have the freedom to practice any religion they desire. This acceptance of others is unique in South Korea as it is ironic that only slightly up in the North, people are being forced to follow a very strict set of rules for all aspects of life. In the beginning of this essay, there is a quote from a Buddhist man who mentions that “we ourselves must walk the path”. This is true for every aspect of life no matter the country in which an individual may live. Religion is part of a person, or part of a country but it’s the life that the person lives that determines the results of their path.
References:
Cultural Corps of Korean Buddhism (n.d.). Major buddhist temples in korea. Retrieved from http://asiaenglish.visitkorea.or.kr/ena/RE/RE_EN_1_1_3_1.jsp
Koo, S. (n.d.). Religions of korea yesterday and today. Retrieved fromhttp://spice.stanford.edu/docs/religions_of_korea_yesterday_and_today/
Kraig, B. (2013). Hidden korea: Religion. Retrieved from http://www.pbs.org/hiddenkorea/religion.htm
Miller, C. (n.d.). Shamanism . Retrieved from http://www.arizonahealingtours.com/shamanic/SJ2.html
This is a normal distribution of religions in South Korea, while many say that are not religious many others feel that they are deeply religious.
http://270c81.medialib.glogster.com/media/ac/ac94789ece27e567f4939077e296c6455f4baae5a2a19509217f94dabe6c22b3/southkorea-pie-chart-jpg.jp This map shows the religions of the world. If you locate India on the map (in purple) and move slightly to the right you see Korea. When reading the map key, Korea is highlighted in light green showing that Korea is made up of Buddhism. http://www.rayfowler.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/map_world_religions.gif |
South Korean people come together for a time of worship. Here they engage in songs in th
http://www.slate.com/content/dam/slate/blogs/trending/2012/06/06/south_korea_taking_evolution_out_of_textbooks_after_campaign_by_religious_group/143250740.jpg.CROP.rectangle3-large.jpg People worship in a beautiful Buddhist temple. This is a time for reflection, mediation, and enlightenment http://www.jaunted.com/files/3873/Temple_in_Seoul_South_Korea.jpg
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Snapshot of South Korean Cuisine
What should I expect when eating South Korean food?
Food that is:
Healthy, spicy, and full of flavor!
Fruits, vegetables and rice are most likely found at the South Korean table.
What should I expect when eating South Korean food?
Food that is:
Healthy, spicy, and full of flavor!
Fruits, vegetables and rice are most likely found at the South Korean table.
Popular Foods
Plenty of vegetables Some meat, usually seafood Garlic, soybeans, soy sauce, and chillies Noodles Green Tea Rice Soup Hangwa- traditional cookies Kimbap- seaweed wrap with veggies and egg Mattang- traditional dessert with sweet potatoes Juk- a porridge with grains. Q: What do South Koreans eat for breakfast? Seaweed soup with turnips, rice, fish, breads, or more traditional cereals South Korean Dishes. (2000, January 1). AngloInfo. Retrieved April 25, 2014, from http://southkorea.angloinfo.com/lifestyle/food-and-drink/south-korean-dishes/ Q: Are there any relations between religion and food?
A: Korean food is more heavily influenced by its neighbors and rich historical background then religion. Farmers cultivated the rich lands and gathered food for the meals. Many foods are foods that could be preserved during the cold winters. Traditional, earthy pots can be found in almost all the homes and restaurants. Also influenced by the Chinese Han Dynasty, South Korean people eat with chopsticks and sit cross legged at low rising tables. Image source: Korean Table Manners | EARTH EXCURSION. (2013, June 10). EARTH EXCURSION. Retrieved April 25, 2014, from http://www.earthexcursion.com/tag/korean-table-manners/ Q: Where does the food come from? A: Because South Korea is actually a peninsula with a climate with cold winters, warm summers and cool autumns food is grown throughout the land. "Rice, beans, and vegetables are grown in the valleys while in the mountains mushrooms and many wild plants such as bracken and bellflower are either collected or cultivated. Each region has its own dishes unique to its climate. In the mountainous northeastern part of the country, for instance, the most famous dishes have plenty of wild ferns and native roots in them. In the rice-growing valleys of the south, in the region of Chonju city, the best known dish is a large bowl of rice covered in a variety of finely sliced vegetables, meats, and a spicy sauce"
Sources: Korean Food. (n.d.). PBS. Retrieved April 25, 2014, from http://www.pbs.org/hiddenkorea/food.htm Q: What is the price of food in South Korea? (In USD)
At a restaurant (one meal)- $5.76 Coffee- $4.80 Coke/Pepsi- $1.35 Milk- $2.22 Bread-$2.21 Rice-$3.57 Eggs-$2.99 Water-$1.18 Apples-$5.87 Wine-$16.36 Source: Cost of Living . (n.d.). Numbeo. Retrieved April 25, 2014, from http://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/country_result.jsp?country=South+Korea&displayCurrency=USD |
Q: What is a popular dish in South Korea that I can make at home?
A: Kimchi! "In late November or early December, families would prepare enough kimchi to last the winter. It was then stored in large clay jars partially buried, but today they often don't have enough time or space to store large amounts" Recipe How to Make Cabbage Kimchi What You Need Ingredients 1 (2-pound) head napa cabbage 1/4 cup sea salt or kosher salt (see Recipe Notes) Water (see Recipe Notes) 1 tablespoon grated garlic (about 5-6 cloves) 1 teaspoon grated ginger 1 teaspoon sugar 2-3 tablespoons seafood flavor or water (optional, see Recipe Notes) 1-5 tablespoons Korean red pepper flakes (gochugaru) 8 ounces Korean radish or daikon, peeled and cut into matchsticks 4 scallions, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces Equipment Cutting board and knife Large bowl Gloves (optional but highly recommended) Plate and something to weigh the kimchi down, like a jar or can of beans Colander Small bowl Clean 1-quart jar with canning lid or plastic lid Bowl or plate to place under jar during fermentation Instructions
Sources How To Make Easy Kimchi at Home Cooking Lessons from The Kitchn. (2013, January 1). The Kitchn. Retrieved April 25, 2014, from http://www.thekitchn.com/how-to-make-cabbage-kimchi-cooking-lessons-from-the-kitchn-189390 Food. (1999, January 1). Korean food : A Korean traditional meal. Retrieved April 25, 2014, from http://www.korea.net/AboutKorea/Korean-Life/Food . |