Culture shock can be experienced just about every where you go. From across countries to across states, cities, offices, schools, towns, rivers and mountains. South Korea is only as big as size of the States of Ohio. However many mountain terrains caused this little country to have 8 to 10 different accents in their language. You don't have to fly far away especially when you live in United States too. You can experience slightly different culture when you travel across United States. Even right here in New York City.
I moved to New York city at the end of my enlistment in United States Air Force from Barksdale Air Force Base in Louisiana. Down south, we usually take our time with just about everything. For most part, people are very friendly, polite and laid back. It was an eye opening experience when I hopped on the subway for the first time going into New York city during morning rush hour. It was hard enough trying to get into the train without having the door closed on me and when I finally got off, people were literally pushing me while I was trying to figure my way out to the right exit.
This is very interesting because its not like I never lived in major city. Its because I got adjusted to the southern suburban life. I grew up most of my life in Seoul, which is the capital and one of the major city in Republic of South Korea. The people there are just as bad or if not worse in the subway or even side walks. People will bump into you without saying anything. One of the reasons why I was not afraid of New York City drivers was because I learn to drive in Korea. Most foreigners think people are rude but its just part of the city life. If you're not coming from another major city and it can be an eye opening experience. My parents live their whole life in the city of Seoul and I remember they had such hard time adjusting to quiet suburbs of Fairfax, Virginia when we first moved out here. However, now they complain about the headaches, traffics and crowded streets whenever they visit New York City or Seoul. Just like how I was adjusted to the suburban life of Louisiana, my parents were adjusted to the suburban life of Virginia.
I remember I use to have hard time understanding when southern people spoke too fast. Especially when their accents were heavy and I could barely make out what they were saying. However by the time I moved to New York, I missed hearing southern accents and when ever I ran into tourist that our from south made me just smile. Its quite interesting how we can adjust to certain culture and environment when we relocate.
In Korea, its common for same sex to hold hands and walk down the street and no one will ever think that they are gay or lesbians. I remember when I lived in Korea while I was young that I use to do hold hands my friends. After living in the United States for over a century, I visited Korea and remember being very uncomfortable when an old friend tried to grab my hand. In fact, I pushed him away asking him to give me space. We both laughed but I would have punched him if we were back in the States.
I've never been to Aisa, but I've seen the videos on TV and YouTube of the subways. I can't imagine thinking it's a good day when you don't crack a rib during my morning commute.
ReplyDeleteAs for driving... I too lived in the South for many years and in Northern Virginia (hands down the worst drivers of the world are all in DC if you ask me); but I can understand that people find NY driving intimidating. I find them offensive more than agressive. You just have to learn that the lines indicating lanes are more of a suggestion than rule.
When i was studied in Seattle there are a lot of Korean, some of my friends suprised me that they really care about the ages, not like American they can call their elder's names. I still remember when i went to my friends house we drink together, and all little thing will be do by a friend who is youger than them, he cooks for us and wash dishes, i ask to help him, they said no. They told me this is normal, he need to cooks for them for everyday and do everything they tell him to do. And even you are in same age but you were born 1 day later. lol we will never see this in U.S because they don't really care about this. Some of my friends just call their parents name at home or outside, i think if i do the same thing in my country, my parents will abandon me and others will say i am an illiberal person.
ReplyDeleteIn Kuwait, I had a married co-worker from Bangladesh was in a habit of holding of holding hands with his other male friends. Now I did not know this!!! Not that there is anything wrong with guys holding hands (Just protecting myself from any future liabilities.) One day when we were going to lunch, he grabbed hold of my hand. I was a little confused for a few seconds only to recompose and tell him to leave my hand and call his wife.
ReplyDeleteHe later told me that it was normal in his culture for friends of the same sex show their affection towards each other by holding hands.
:S hmmm... I kinda don't think it is rather true in bangladesh... a big hug or handshake is enough to express gratitude or affection back there.. but if you hold hands and walk all over the place.. buyer beware some eyes and nasty smirks will await you..
ReplyDeleteI was living in New Orleans of Louisiana for about 3 months. I totally agree with you that people over there are much more polite and friendly. One day i was walking to a grocery store. During the 5 minutes trip, there were two drivers stopped their cars and asked me if i need a ride. Besides that, i think they are quite humorous. Anyway, it was a delightful experience to me.
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