Eastern Ways/Western Ways

It's been 8 months and I still become overwhelmed by the cultural differences. Lining up, taking turns and personal space are the norm in western culture. We follow a simple system directed by courtesy, fairness and the law. In Asia, as an outsider, it seems the unwritten code is every person for themselves. It is just the way of life here and not considered rude. So, I have to put my western ideals aside and guard against frustration and road rage!


This morning, I was first in line to make a left hand turn but had to wait for a break in traffic. The car behind me came around me from the right and put his nose ahead of mine so that he could turn first. Last night, on our way home from Jinju we stopped at a red light but several cars came around from the left side and blew through the light without hesitation.

The most stressful situation happens on two way streets that are so narrow there is only room for the traffic to flow in one direction. The result is a standoff! At home, we would handle this like a four way stop sign. The cars would each wait and go in turn from order of arrival. In Korea, I cannot see a structure or courtesy system applied to these situations!

When I am paying at the grocery store it is common practice for people with just a few things to hand the cashier their money before she has finished my order. You have to bag your own groceries and quite quickly because they keep ringing and pushing the next persons groceries on top of your things.

Last week, during Lunar New Year, I stopped by Top Mart to get a few liters of milk. I used a small basket and put it on the counter and waited my turn. The woman behind me was trying to tell me to take my things out of the basket but did so by touching me and my groceries. It was difficult for me and I think the surprised look on my face told her I wasn't open to her instruction.


So, as ST told me "if you accept Korean way, you will be happier"! I'm working on it-- but it's not easy!