Cultural Post #2

[Sarah Kwon]

Korea is really big on their formal language. This is especially true in the work force and towards the elderly. If you do not use formal language with them, it is seen as a sign of disrespect and is usually associated with major consequences. There are even different gestures a person must do when meeting with a person of higher authority or a person who is older than you. When drinking with them, you must look the other way, for it is a sign of disrespect if you drink alcohol right in front of their face. It is also rude to look at them directly in the eye when talking to them. I personally thought this was interesting because it is the opposite in America. In the states, it is seen as a sign of respect to look at others directly in the eye. It shows them that you are paying attention and are focused on that individual. 

[Sneha Salgam]

I think this is similar in many Asian cultures because when I was learning Hindi the distinction between the informal and formal language was very much enforced as well. I needed to make sure I knew what conjugations and pronouns were used for formal language instead of informal language so that I wouldn't offend anyone.