<Confucianism Ideals>
Despite the implementation of Westernized ideals in Korean society, confucius teachings are still prominent today. Confucius was a Chinese philosopher whose teachings were spread throughout all of East Asia, including Korea. His emphasis on familial structures and respect for elders is greatly instilled.
With people who are older, higher up in position, and higher up in education status, the honorific form has to be used. It is extremely rude if the form is not used. If one does not know whether or not use the honorific form, it should be used as default. Also, bowing is a habitual greeting that should be done upon people who are older, etc.
Furthermore, Koreans tend to look upon family as a strong support group. Even if one is far away from the family, there should still be some form of contact. In addition, children are pushed to take care of their parents when the parents are older. Nursing homes are not as popular as Westernized places. Because the parents spent their time and money on the children, the children are expected to reciprocate the gestures.
Despite being a Korean person who grew up in America, my parents have taught me the same ideals of respect and familial support. Thus, when I was in middle school, I would accidently bow to my American teachers once in a while!
Source: http://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20120213001231
Comments