What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Pyeongtaek?
We asked people in Pyeongtaek if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!...
"In Pyeongtaek, it is considered rude to blow your nose in public, especially at the dining table. Avoid using one hand when giving or receiving items, as it is seen as disrespectful. Always use both hands or your right hand with your left hand supporting your right wrist. Avoid pointing with your fingers, as it is considered impolite. Instead, use your whole hand to gesture. It is also considered disrespectful to write someone's name in red ink, as it symbolizes death. When dining, wait for the eldest person to start eating before you begin. It's also important not to leave chopsticks sticking upright in a bowl of rice, as this is a practice associated with funerals. Avoid touching someone you are not close with, as Koreans value personal space. It's also important to remove your shoes before entering someone's home. In conversation, avoid discussing sensitive topics such as politics, North Korea, and the Korean War. Koreans also consider it rude to ask personal questions, especially about age, marital status, or income. Lastly, remember to bow when greeting someone. The depth of your bow should reflect the person's social status - the higher the status, the deeper the bow," said another expat in Pyeongtaek, Korea.
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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Pyeongtaek?
If you live in Pyeongtaek, newcomers to Pyeongtaek would love to hear your answer to this question.