August 20, 2025 • 18 mins
In this episode of The Culture Hug Podcast, we dive into the fascinating world of Korea—both North and South. From centuries of history to the modern-day Korean Wave sweeping across the globe, we explore what makes this peninsula so unique. You’ll learn about the deep-rooted cultural values shaped by Confucianism, Buddhism, Christianity, and Juche ideology, and how these beliefs influence everyday life. We’ll talk about customs, etiquette, and what visitors should know before stepping into South Korea, while also peeking into the closed-off society of North Korea. Food lovers will get a taste of Korean cuisine, from kimchi and barbecue to the importance of communal dining. And of course, we’ll uncover why K-pop, K-dramas, and Korean cinema have captured worldwide attention, becoming a powerful cultural force. Whether you’re curious about Korean history, its spiritual traditions, or simply want to understand what life is like on both sides of the DMZ, this episode offers an engaging journey into the heart of Korean culture.
North Korea Sources:
North Korea Sources:
- Central Intelligence Agency. (2025, August 13). Korea, North. The World Factbook. https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/korea-north/
- Central Intelligence Agency. (2025, August 13). Korea, North factsheet. The World Factbook. https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/factbook-reference/north-korea-factsheet/
- Central Intelligence Agency. (2025, August 13). Korea, North travel facts. The World Factbook. https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/factbook-reference/north-korea-travel-facts/
- French, P. (2014, May 2). A day in the life of Pyongyang – How North Korea's capital goes to work. The Guardian. https://www.theguardian.com/cities/2014/may/02/day-in-the-life-pyongyang-north-korea-capital
- Liberty in North Korea. (n.d.). The North Korean people’s challenges. https://www.libertyinnorthkorea.org/learn-north-korea/
- North Korean culture, customs and etiquette. (n.d.). Another Travel. https://www.anothertravel.com/north-korea-culture-customs-etiquette/
- The lived travel experience to North Korea. (n.d.). Bournemouth University Research Online (BURO). http://eprints.bournemouth.ac.uk/
- U.S. Department of State. (2025, August 11). North Korea travel advisory. Travel.state.gov. https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/north-korea-travel-advisory.html
- Armstrong, J. (2025, May 26). Korean culture – Guide to history, customs, people, and modern day. 90 Day Korean. https://www.90daykorean.com/korean-culture/
- Armstrong, J. (2025, June 11). Korean table manners – Dining etiquette you need to know. 90 Day Korean. https://www.90daykorean.com/korean-table-manners/
- Central Intelligence Agency. (2025, August 13). Korea, South. The World Factbook. https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/korea-south/
- Central Intelligence Agency. (2025, August 13). Korea, South factsheet. The World Factbook. https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/factbook-reference/south-korea-factsheet/
- Central Intelligence Agency. (2025, August 13). Korea, South travel facts. The World Factbook. https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/factbook-reference/south-korea-travel-facts/
- Park, L. (n.d.). Korea: Brief history and culture [Presentation slides]. Sejong Cultural Society. https://sejongculturalsociety.org/
- u/stiljo24. (ca. 2022). A series of questions about etiquette as a westerner travelling solo [Online forum post]. Reddit. https://www.reddit.com/r/korea/
- U.S. Department of State. (2025, January 21). South Korea international travel information. Travel.state.gov. https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/KoreaSouth.html
- Commisceo Global. (n.d.). How different are North and South Korean cultures? https://www.commisceo-global.com/resources/country-guides/south-korea-guide
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:01):
In the quiet place. We share words on food like
whispers in.
Speaker 2 (00:10):
The air.
Speaker 1 (00:13):
To go whee we start. Welcome to the Culture Hook podcast,
your space to learn and learn and grow one hug
and one episode at a time. Welcome you, curious learners
to deep dive into the Korean Peninsula. It's a land
where millennia of vibrant culture collide with a modern day division.
(00:38):
Really one of the most compelling human stories on Earth,
I think it really is. We've getted the a fascinating
stack of sources for you, detailed cultural guides, real life
travel accounts, even official government advisories to help us navigate
this intricate landscape. Our mission today is to cut through
the noise, maybe reveal some surprising facts, and offer you
a nuanced understanding of a place that truly represent sense
(01:00):
two sides of a deeply rich cultural coin. Okay, let's
unpack this.
Speaker 2 (01:05):
You've captured it perfectly. It's a fascinating paradox to explore
how centuries of shared identity have fractured into profoundly different
societal paths, and yet some fundamental cultural threads persistently weave
through both.
Speaker 1 (01:17):
It's quite something, so to truly grasp modern Korea, we
really need to quickly rewind through its rich and often
tumultuous history.
Speaker 2 (01:26):
Indeed, we're looking at a continuous culture that stretches back
thousands of years. But a pivotal moment definitely shaping its
modern form was the early twentieth century Japan's invasion of Korea,
and particularly the attempts to eradicate Korean identity like the
forced name changes and banning the Korean language in nineteen
thirty eight that left an indelible mark.
Speaker 1 (01:47):
Wow.
Speaker 2 (01:48):
Yeah. And this era, of course also saw powerful resistance movements,
people like the Buddhist monk kanyong wuin right.
Speaker 1 (01:56):
Then fast forward to August nineteen forty five Japan surrenders
where it gets really interesting, maybe defining the allied powers
the US, ussr UK they made a decision that would
forever alter the peninsula's fate. Division at the thirty eighth parallel,
and this led straight to two competing provisional governments, the
US backed Republic of Korea South Korea and the Soviet
(02:17):
supervised DPRK North Korea, which also got Chinese support.
Speaker 2 (02:20):
And as you can imagine, this division was anything but peaceful.
The Korean War nineteen fifty to fifty three. Well, it
was one of the bloodiest conflicts in human history.
Speaker 1 (02:27):
The numbers are staggering, they really are.
Speaker 2 (02:30):
An estimated one point five million military and maybe two
point five million civilian casualties, just devastating. And the armistice
signed by the UN North Korea and China, it solidified
that thirty eighth parallel division. It left behind this deep sorrow,
a sense of hopelessness you can still feel in the
literature and music from that time, and.
Speaker 1 (02:48):
The human pain of that division. It just continues to resonate,
doesn't it.
Speaker 2 (02:51):
It absolutely does.
Speaker 1 (02:52):
Our sources highlight this really poignant example from nineteen eighty three,
the KBSTV live program Looking for Dispersed Family started as
just a one day special. It turned into a NonStop
broadcast for over four hundred and fifty three hours.
Speaker 2 (03:06):
Wow, four hundred and fifty three hours.
Speaker 1 (03:08):
Yeah Therever fifty three thousand families appear on air, and
nearly ten two hundred of them actually found lost loved ones.
Can you imagine the national outpouring That.
Speaker 2 (03:17):
Story is just incredibly moving. It really underscores how despite
all the politics, that deep longing for family connection is
still such a profound shared reality exacts and beneath those
stark differences, you know, whether you're in bustling Soul or
those essentrally planned boulevards and Pyongyang, these deep seated cultural values,
they continue to shape daily life.
Speaker 1 (03:35):
Yeah, let's talk about those values. The spiritual ground. The
beliefs of Korean seem profoundly shaped by Confucianism, Buddhism and Christianity,
and Confucianism especially it has such a long pervasive influence.
Speaker 2 (03:48):
Right absolutely, even today, It's political and social philosophies are
clearly visible. That strong confusion concept of hierarchy based on
a person's age, job status, education, social rank directly emphasizes
respect for elders and ancestors.
Speaker 1 (04:02):
You see that everywhere you do.
Speaker 2 (04:04):
And while okay, younger generations in South Korea are becoming
more individualistic, the society remains largely collectivist. Family, workplace, how
you're perceived externally, it all holds immense importance. This also
means traditionally the eldest son often carries extra family responsibilities
like caring for parents in retirement.
Speaker 1 (04:22):
That deep emphasis on hierarchy and collectivism, it really is
reflected in so many aspects. But a South Korea changes
so rapidly. Are your sources showing any challenges to these values,
especially among younger, maybe more globally connected generations.
Speaker 2 (04:36):
It's a fascinating tension. Yeah. While individualism is definitely growing,
especially in urban South Korea, that foundational respect for elders
and the collective good it often manifests in new ways,
like maybe heightened social pressures around getting into the right
university or career success all for the family's honor, you know.
Speaker 1 (04:56):
Ah okay, So it adapts.
Speaker 2 (04:58):
It highlights how these ancient philosoph fee's subtly adapt and
speaking of shared heritage despite such different paths, the language
itself still binds them, doesn't it It does.
Speaker 1 (05:08):
Korean is the official language in both countries, and its
unique writing system, hong Yul, is celebrated globally.
Speaker 2 (05:14):
That's right. Hang Wol invented back in the fifteenth century
by King si Jong the Great. It's lauded for being
so scientifically structured and frankly easy to.
Speaker 1 (05:23):
Learn compared to Chinese characters.
Speaker 2 (05:24):
Certainly exactly, King Seijong designed it precisely to democratize literacy.
Chinese characters were just too complex for common people, leaving
most Koreans effectively illiterate. Before Hangol, it was truly revolutionary,
a profound act for universal literacy.
Speaker 1 (05:39):
Okay, so that's the language. Now, let's step into everyday life,
because this is where you really see the contrast, isn't it?
Absolutely on one side, this incredibly regimented reality of North Korea,
and on the other the vibrant, almost frantic, fast paced
rhythm of South Korea.
Speaker 2 (05:54):
Right by seven thirty am, North Areans are typically in
a thirty minute reading session. Doing exercise is studying the
daily party papers, receiving instructions for the day.
Speaker 1 (06:03):
Wow that early.
Speaker 2 (06:04):
Yeah, it's a highly controlled existence. Days start early, breakfast
often just corn or maze porridge. Children start school with
exercises marching, saluting the leader's image. The curriculum is heavily
based on Kim Ilsong's nineteen seventy seven thesis on socialist education,
emphasizing revolutionary spirit, a lot of roate learning, and college
(06:25):
admission often determined by social rank song bun, which further
reinforces the state script.
Speaker 1 (06:31):
And workplaces you mentioned operate with minimal modern tech, like
payrolls by hand.
Speaker 2 (06:35):
Exactly payrolls accounting done by hand. Lunch is often packed
from home or maybe a work canteen, serving very basic
fare like corn soup. It means the city feels strangely
empty during the day, quite unlike other global.
Speaker 1 (06:49):
Capitals, and it doesn't end at five pm, not at all.
Speaker 2 (06:52):
After five pm, people are required to stay for daily
community and learning sessions. These include self criticism, all based
on the ten prinnciples for firmly establishing the party's unique
thought system.
Speaker 1 (07:03):
Sounds incredibly intense. Yeah, regimented it is.
Speaker 2 (07:06):
Even Personal appearance is heavily regulated. Clothing designed by the
State Apparel Research Center. While okay, some bright colors are
permitted now, foreign brands, often fake, are smuggled in at
great risk. Genes have sometimes been banned as decadent. Same
for long hair on men that can lead to forced haircuts,
even arrest.
Speaker 1 (07:24):
And the Kim Il Sung badge.
Speaker 2 (07:26):
Ah. Yes, a constant daily ritual. Wearing the badge is mandatory.
It's a prized item, apparently even coveted by Bickpocket When.
Speaker 1 (07:32):
Housing has its own issues high rises but no power
for elevators.
Speaker 2 (07:36):
That's a major challenge. Many live in these twenty forty
story high rises, but chronic power cuts mean elevators often
don't work, so older people can be essentially trapped in
their apartments. And there's this fascinating detail from the sources,
an alternative suspension of electricity system. One side of a
street gets power while the other is blacked out, then
(07:57):
they switch.
Speaker 1 (07:58):
Unbelievable. And entertainment Formal.
Speaker 2 (08:01):
Entertainment is very limited, state run cinemas showing heavily propagandist films.
Apparently the first on screen kiss only appeared recently in
a film called Beyond Joy and Sorrow.
Speaker 1 (08:11):
Really yeah.
Speaker 2 (08:12):
Foreign media is strictly forbidden, though some news does filter
through via illegal shortwave radios by midnight. Pyonyang is effectively
a ghost city, a stark testament to a life entirely
governed by the state.
Speaker 1 (08:24):
And if that paints a picture of stark control, get
ready for a vivid contrast. Let's talk about everyday life
for citizens in South Korea, and then we get to
visitor etiquette.
Speaker 2 (08:33):
Right. While etiquette is key for visitors, everyday life for
South Koreans themselves is often a whirlwind. You have this
intense work culture, the high speed connectivity everywhere, vibrant social scenes.
You really see the polypali or hurry hurry culture in action,
it's reflected in their rapid development, efficient public transport, but
(08:54):
also maybe less positively, in the super competitive educational landscape,
the pressure, and then the booming nightlife in areas like Gangnum.
Speaker 1 (09:03):
It's a blend, isn't it. Ancient traditions meeting hyper modern innovation.
Speaker 2 (09:07):
Exactly, a kind of NonStop energy that seems to underpin
much of its global success.
Speaker 1 (09:12):
Okay, so now if you're planning a trip to South Korea,
you're going into that environment different norms. People sometimes overthink
the etiquette, right, but generally locals are used to tourists.
Speaker 2 (09:21):
Generally, yes, the key is just showing respect for the culture,
especially around dining right.
Speaker 1 (09:26):
Dining is big.
Speaker 2 (09:27):
Eating is very communal, Observing who eats first, usually the
oldest person, and trying to match the group's eating pace.
Those are important signs of deference. But it's also perfectly
fine to eat alone in restaurants. There's really no stigma
there if you're by yourself.
Speaker 1 (09:40):
Good to know, and the courtesies don't pour your own drink.
Speaker 2 (09:43):
Correct, let others pour for you, and use two hands
when pouring or receiving a drink especially with elders or superiors.
It shows respect.
Speaker 1 (09:52):
And crucially, tipping is not.
Speaker 2 (09:54):
A thing, definitely not. It's not customary and can actually
be seen as a bit disrespectful, be implying they aren't
paid properly, so best avoided.
Speaker 1 (10:03):
Okay.
Speaker 2 (10:04):
Chopstick etiquette, ah yes, never stick your chopsticks straight up
in your rice bowl. It resembles incense sticks used in
funeral rituals. A definite no no. And just general things.
Keep your voice down on public transport. Understand that in
busy areas people are often in a hurry. The Paula
Pelli thing again, stick to the right on escalators. Don't
(10:24):
hold elevator doors. While Fauth, Korea is becoming more open,
modesty and fashion is still appreciated. For women, bare shoulders
or cleavage might attract more attention than say, short skirts.
Speaker 1 (10:36):
Interesting. So it sounds like while there are specific customs,
basic common sense and just being observant and willing to
adapt takes you a long way pretty much. But you know,
to truly grasp the profound differences and maybe the subtle
connections between these two Koreas, we need to look beyond
just surface customs. We need delve into the bedrock their
belief systems.
Speaker 2 (10:55):
Precisely, the spiritual landscape of Korea is as complex as
its history, and at fundamental shapes everything from daily behaviors
to state ideology. In South Korea, our sources show a
really diverse religious tapistry that twenty fourteen Gallop report, nearly
half the population forty six point five percent identifies as
having no formal religion. That's hot it is, but Buddhism
(11:16):
around twenty four point four percent, and Christianity Protestant at
twenty one point four percent Catholic at six point seven percent.
They coexist with almost equal strength among the religious population.
Speaker 1 (11:27):
That's quite unique compared to global patterns, isn't it? And Confucianism,
while not always listed as a formal religion, its philosophical
underpinning still profoundly influenced daily behavior and social structure. Like
we discussed exactly, this unique blend seems to reflect a
society navigating its spiritual identity. Historical philosophies subtly inform daily
(11:47):
life even for those without formal religion. It's a complex
interplay between tradition and modernity.
Speaker 2 (11:52):
But then you turn north to North Korea and the
landscape changes dramatically. The official ideology is juice or self reliance.
Speaker 1 (12:00):
Jusies broadly meaning self sufficiency broadly.
Speaker 2 (12:03):
Yes, championing North Korea's ability to develop independently without external influence.
But while it's a complex philosophy, our sources really highlight
its practical manifestation their profound deification of the Kim dynasty,
Kim Ilsung, Kim Jong Yale, Kim Jong Un. Their portraits
statues are everywhere, their words treated as sacred. Bowing or
(12:24):
showing deference isn't just expected, it's essential for survival.
Speaker 1 (12:27):
So this effectively replaces traditional religious practices entirely.
Speaker 2 (12:31):
It does. In fact, US travel advisories explicitly state that
promoting any religious activities, even accidentally leaving religious materials behind,
is illegal in North Korea and.
Speaker 1 (12:40):
Can lead to immediate arrest and detention.
Speaker 2 (12:42):
Exactly, it shows how the state controls not just physical life,
but belief systems too. There's very little room for anything
outside the state sanctioned ideology. The state is the ultimate authority,
even over belief.
Speaker 1 (12:55):
Chilling okay, let's shift gears a bit from ancient crafts
to modern pop culture. Korea's creative output is just undeniably
impactful globally.
Speaker 2 (13:03):
It really is. Historically, Korean arts flourished. Think back to
the Goryo Dynasty tenth century. Elegant jade green seladon pottery
with that unique inlay technique was invented then creates an
amazing optical effect like images floating on the surface.
Speaker 1 (13:19):
Beautiful stuff.
Speaker 2 (13:20):
And then there's military tech. A fascinating innovation was the Geobuxium,
the turtle warship, considered the world's first ironclad warship, built
by the legendary General Ye Sunshin in fifteen ninety two
during the Japanese.
Speaker 1 (13:33):
Invasion wow sixteenth century.
Speaker 2 (13:35):
Yep, you can even see replicas in museums around the
world today.
Speaker 1 (13:39):
Okay, speaking of things everyone knows and loves, let's talk food.
Rice seems truly central to Korean cuisine, reflecting that agricultural
history absolutely, and of course kimchi, the iconic fermented vegetable dish.
It defines Korean cuisine, really present at nearly every single
meal it is.
Speaker 2 (13:56):
But beyond kinschi, Korean cuisine uses these wonderful common ingredients douejung,
that rich savory for ment, to bean paste, go chijon,
the spicy hot pepper paste, ginger, garlic, sesame oil, making
me hungry me too. Meals typically feature multiple side dishes,
bon chens served alongside the main dish. Pork, especially grilled
pork belly sam jack saul is hugely popular. Beef once
(14:19):
a luxury, is more common now food is often grilled, steamed, fermented, pickled,
and there's a really rich culture of shared communal meals.
It emphasizes connection, hospitality.
Speaker 1 (14:30):
And then there's the phenomenon the Korean wave or HOLLEYU.
It's just swept the glow. Hasn't it just K pop
groups like BTS, Black Pink, global sensations, and it's not
just the music is it's the whole package, music, dance, fashion, performance.
These idols trained for years in intensive system.
Speaker 2 (14:47):
It's a whole industry. And K dramas too, celebrated for
emotional storytelling, strong characters, now increasingly tackling serious social issues,
mental health, class divides.
Speaker 1 (14:56):
And films like Parasite trained at bussan huge international claim
showing the depth of their cinematic creach.
Speaker 2 (15:02):
Definitely, this media influence, it reflects that blend of tradition
and trendiness. We talked about it showcases Korean cultural values,
but also soft power, that ability to influence through cultural
appeal and often with strong government support for these cultural exports.
South Korea is also known for leading global beauty and
skincare trends, aiming for that glass skin you know, that
(15:23):
incredibly clear, luminous look, multi step routines, innovative products. Oh yeah,
Chia beauty is huge and technology. South Korea is one
of the most connected countries globally. Widespread smartphone use, smart
home features are common. Even esports and gaming culture are massive,
progamers competing globally, a truly wired society.
Speaker 1 (15:44):
So we've journeyed through these two Koreas shaped by this
common past, but with these incredibly divergent modern realities. What
does it all mean for understanding the Korean Peninsula as
a whole.
Speaker 2 (15:54):
Well, if we try to connect it to the bigger picture.
Despite that stark political division since nineteen forty five, there's
still this undeniable shared cultural heritage, language ancestry spanning thousands
of years. Take the concept of face or cameon, for instance,
that appearance a person wants to project, especially regarding social status,
maintaining harmony. It's deeply ingrained across the culture, regardless of
(16:17):
the border.
Speaker 1 (16:17):
Hmmm, interesting, But the differences are just so dramatic. South
Korea the democratic republic, embracing global trends, rapid tech advancement,
a mix of traditional and hyper modern life. Ye North
Korea an authoritarian, single party state, highly controlled, strict limits
on personal freedom, information, even daily life. It's night and day,
it really is.
Speaker 2 (16:37):
And the travel experience itself just underscores this profound contrast.
For visitors, South Korea is largely Level one exercise normal precautions.
The etiquette guidelines mostly involve common sense and respect manageable right.
North Korea, however, is a Level four do not travel
advisory from the US government, and for good reason. The
(16:58):
serious risk of arbitrary rest, long term wrongful detention, and
virtually no consular assistance available if things.
Speaker 1 (17:06):
Go wrong terrifying.
Speaker 2 (17:07):
Really electronic devices are searched. Privacy is non existent. Any
action deemed disrespectful to leadership is treated as a severe crime.
This stark difference in freedom and risk. It's perhaps the
most profound manifestation of that division.
Speaker 1 (17:21):
We're an illuminating and sometimes sobering dive into Korea. You've
journeyed with us through centuries of shared heritage and into
these fascinating, starkly different realities of two nations today, from
ancient innovations like Celadon pottery and the total warship to
the global phenomenon of k pop, and from the enduring
influence of confusion values to the frankly chilling realities of
(17:41):
daily life in Pyongyang. It's a culture of incredible resilience,
but also immense complexity, and.
Speaker 2 (17:47):
It raises this important question, doesn't it. How does that
shared history, that fundamental cultural DNA continue to shape the
distinct identities of North and South Korea today and what
might that mean for their few, especially as younger generations
navigate these complex legacies. It truly is a testament to
the enduring human spirit, finding ways to preserve culture even
(18:09):
under the most disparate circumstances.
Speaker 1 (18:11):
We really hope this deep dive is giving you a richer,
more informed perspective on the Korean peninsula. Maybe it'll inspire
you to learn a few Hangul phrases, or perhaps explore
further the intricate ways culture and history intertwine. Until next time,
keep digging. Who we start
In the quiet place. We share words on food like
whispers in.
Speaker 2 (00:10):
The air.
Speaker 1 (00:13):
To go whee we start. Welcome to the Culture Hook podcast,
your space to learn and learn and grow one hug
and one episode at a time. Welcome you, curious learners
to deep dive into the Korean Peninsula. It's a land
where millennia of vibrant culture collide with a modern day division.
(00:38):
Really one of the most compelling human stories on Earth,
I think it really is. We've getted the a fascinating
stack of sources for you, detailed cultural guides, real life
travel accounts, even official government advisories to help us navigate
this intricate landscape. Our mission today is to cut through
the noise, maybe reveal some surprising facts, and offer you
a nuanced understanding of a place that truly represent sense
(01:00):
two sides of a deeply rich cultural coin. Okay, let's
unpack this.
Speaker 2 (01:05):
You've captured it perfectly. It's a fascinating paradox to explore
how centuries of shared identity have fractured into profoundly different
societal paths, and yet some fundamental cultural threads persistently weave
through both.
Speaker 1 (01:17):
It's quite something, so to truly grasp modern Korea, we
really need to quickly rewind through its rich and often
tumultuous history.
Speaker 2 (01:26):
Indeed, we're looking at a continuous culture that stretches back
thousands of years. But a pivotal moment definitely shaping its
modern form was the early twentieth century Japan's invasion of Korea,
and particularly the attempts to eradicate Korean identity like the
forced name changes and banning the Korean language in nineteen
thirty eight that left an indelible mark.
Speaker 1 (01:47):
Wow.
Speaker 2 (01:48):
Yeah. And this era, of course also saw powerful resistance movements,
people like the Buddhist monk kanyong wuin right.
Speaker 1 (01:56):
Then fast forward to August nineteen forty five Japan surrenders
where it gets really interesting, maybe defining the allied powers
the US, ussr UK they made a decision that would
forever alter the peninsula's fate. Division at the thirty eighth parallel,
and this led straight to two competing provisional governments, the
US backed Republic of Korea South Korea and the Soviet
(02:17):
supervised DPRK North Korea, which also got Chinese support.
Speaker 2 (02:20):
And as you can imagine, this division was anything but peaceful.
The Korean War nineteen fifty to fifty three. Well, it
was one of the bloodiest conflicts in human history.
Speaker 1 (02:27):
The numbers are staggering, they really are.
Speaker 2 (02:30):
An estimated one point five million military and maybe two
point five million civilian casualties, just devastating. And the armistice
signed by the UN North Korea and China, it solidified
that thirty eighth parallel division. It left behind this deep sorrow,
a sense of hopelessness you can still feel in the
literature and music from that time, and.
Speaker 1 (02:48):
The human pain of that division. It just continues to resonate,
doesn't it.
Speaker 2 (02:51):
It absolutely does.
Speaker 1 (02:52):
Our sources highlight this really poignant example from nineteen eighty three,
the KBSTV live program Looking for Dispersed Family started as
just a one day special. It turned into a NonStop
broadcast for over four hundred and fifty three hours.
Speaker 2 (03:06):
Wow, four hundred and fifty three hours.
Speaker 1 (03:08):
Yeah Therever fifty three thousand families appear on air, and
nearly ten two hundred of them actually found lost loved ones.
Can you imagine the national outpouring That.
Speaker 2 (03:17):
Story is just incredibly moving. It really underscores how despite
all the politics, that deep longing for family connection is
still such a profound shared reality exacts and beneath those
stark differences, you know, whether you're in bustling Soul or
those essentrally planned boulevards and Pyongyang, these deep seated cultural values,
they continue to shape daily life.
Speaker 1 (03:35):
Yeah, let's talk about those values. The spiritual ground. The
beliefs of Korean seem profoundly shaped by Confucianism, Buddhism and Christianity,
and Confucianism especially it has such a long pervasive influence.
Speaker 2 (03:48):
Right absolutely, even today, It's political and social philosophies are
clearly visible. That strong confusion concept of hierarchy based on
a person's age, job status, education, social rank directly emphasizes
respect for elders and ancestors.
Speaker 1 (04:02):
You see that everywhere you do.
Speaker 2 (04:04):
And while okay, younger generations in South Korea are becoming
more individualistic, the society remains largely collectivist. Family, workplace, how
you're perceived externally, it all holds immense importance. This also
means traditionally the eldest son often carries extra family responsibilities
like caring for parents in retirement.
Speaker 1 (04:22):
That deep emphasis on hierarchy and collectivism, it really is
reflected in so many aspects. But a South Korea changes
so rapidly. Are your sources showing any challenges to these values,
especially among younger, maybe more globally connected generations.
Speaker 2 (04:36):
It's a fascinating tension. Yeah. While individualism is definitely growing,
especially in urban South Korea, that foundational respect for elders
and the collective good it often manifests in new ways,
like maybe heightened social pressures around getting into the right
university or career success all for the family's honor, you know.
Speaker 1 (04:56):
Ah okay, So it adapts.
Speaker 2 (04:58):
It highlights how these ancient philosoph fee's subtly adapt and
speaking of shared heritage despite such different paths, the language
itself still binds them, doesn't it It does.
Speaker 1 (05:08):
Korean is the official language in both countries, and its
unique writing system, hong Yul, is celebrated globally.
Speaker 2 (05:14):
That's right. Hang Wol invented back in the fifteenth century
by King si Jong the Great. It's lauded for being
so scientifically structured and frankly easy to.
Speaker 1 (05:23):
Learn compared to Chinese characters.
Speaker 2 (05:24):
Certainly exactly, King Seijong designed it precisely to democratize literacy.
Chinese characters were just too complex for common people, leaving
most Koreans effectively illiterate. Before Hangol, it was truly revolutionary,
a profound act for universal literacy.
Speaker 1 (05:39):
Okay, so that's the language. Now, let's step into everyday life,
because this is where you really see the contrast, isn't it?
Absolutely on one side, this incredibly regimented reality of North Korea,
and on the other the vibrant, almost frantic, fast paced
rhythm of South Korea.
Speaker 2 (05:54):
Right by seven thirty am, North Areans are typically in
a thirty minute reading session. Doing exercise is studying the
daily party papers, receiving instructions for the day.
Speaker 1 (06:03):
Wow that early.
Speaker 2 (06:04):
Yeah, it's a highly controlled existence. Days start early, breakfast
often just corn or maze porridge. Children start school with
exercises marching, saluting the leader's image. The curriculum is heavily
based on Kim Ilsong's nineteen seventy seven thesis on socialist education,
emphasizing revolutionary spirit, a lot of roate learning, and college
(06:25):
admission often determined by social rank song bun, which further
reinforces the state script.
Speaker 1 (06:31):
And workplaces you mentioned operate with minimal modern tech, like
payrolls by hand.
Speaker 2 (06:35):
Exactly payrolls accounting done by hand. Lunch is often packed
from home or maybe a work canteen, serving very basic
fare like corn soup. It means the city feels strangely
empty during the day, quite unlike other global.
Speaker 1 (06:49):
Capitals, and it doesn't end at five pm, not at all.
Speaker 2 (06:52):
After five pm, people are required to stay for daily
community and learning sessions. These include self criticism, all based
on the ten prinnciples for firmly establishing the party's unique
thought system.
Speaker 1 (07:03):
Sounds incredibly intense. Yeah, regimented it is.
Speaker 2 (07:06):
Even Personal appearance is heavily regulated. Clothing designed by the
State Apparel Research Center. While okay, some bright colors are
permitted now, foreign brands, often fake, are smuggled in at
great risk. Genes have sometimes been banned as decadent. Same
for long hair on men that can lead to forced haircuts,
even arrest.
Speaker 1 (07:24):
And the Kim Il Sung badge.
Speaker 2 (07:26):
Ah. Yes, a constant daily ritual. Wearing the badge is mandatory.
It's a prized item, apparently even coveted by Bickpocket When.
Speaker 1 (07:32):
Housing has its own issues high rises but no power
for elevators.
Speaker 2 (07:36):
That's a major challenge. Many live in these twenty forty
story high rises, but chronic power cuts mean elevators often
don't work, so older people can be essentially trapped in
their apartments. And there's this fascinating detail from the sources,
an alternative suspension of electricity system. One side of a
street gets power while the other is blacked out, then
(07:57):
they switch.
Speaker 1 (07:58):
Unbelievable. And entertainment Formal.
Speaker 2 (08:01):
Entertainment is very limited, state run cinemas showing heavily propagandist films.
Apparently the first on screen kiss only appeared recently in
a film called Beyond Joy and Sorrow.
Speaker 1 (08:11):
Really yeah.
Speaker 2 (08:12):
Foreign media is strictly forbidden, though some news does filter
through via illegal shortwave radios by midnight. Pyonyang is effectively
a ghost city, a stark testament to a life entirely
governed by the state.
Speaker 1 (08:24):
And if that paints a picture of stark control, get
ready for a vivid contrast. Let's talk about everyday life
for citizens in South Korea, and then we get to
visitor etiquette.
Speaker 2 (08:33):
Right. While etiquette is key for visitors, everyday life for
South Koreans themselves is often a whirlwind. You have this
intense work culture, the high speed connectivity everywhere, vibrant social scenes.
You really see the polypali or hurry hurry culture in action,
it's reflected in their rapid development, efficient public transport, but
(08:54):
also maybe less positively, in the super competitive educational landscape,
the pressure, and then the booming nightlife in areas like Gangnum.
Speaker 1 (09:03):
It's a blend, isn't it. Ancient traditions meeting hyper modern innovation.
Speaker 2 (09:07):
Exactly, a kind of NonStop energy that seems to underpin
much of its global success.
Speaker 1 (09:12):
Okay, so now if you're planning a trip to South Korea,
you're going into that environment different norms. People sometimes overthink
the etiquette, right, but generally locals are used to tourists.
Speaker 2 (09:21):
Generally, yes, the key is just showing respect for the culture,
especially around dining right.
Speaker 1 (09:26):
Dining is big.
Speaker 2 (09:27):
Eating is very communal, Observing who eats first, usually the
oldest person, and trying to match the group's eating pace.
Those are important signs of deference. But it's also perfectly
fine to eat alone in restaurants. There's really no stigma
there if you're by yourself.
Speaker 1 (09:40):
Good to know, and the courtesies don't pour your own drink.
Speaker 2 (09:43):
Correct, let others pour for you, and use two hands
when pouring or receiving a drink especially with elders or superiors.
It shows respect.
Speaker 1 (09:52):
And crucially, tipping is not.
Speaker 2 (09:54):
A thing, definitely not. It's not customary and can actually
be seen as a bit disrespectful, be implying they aren't
paid properly, so best avoided.
Speaker 1 (10:03):
Okay.
Speaker 2 (10:04):
Chopstick etiquette, ah yes, never stick your chopsticks straight up
in your rice bowl. It resembles incense sticks used in
funeral rituals. A definite no no. And just general things.
Keep your voice down on public transport. Understand that in
busy areas people are often in a hurry. The Paula
Pelli thing again, stick to the right on escalators. Don't
(10:24):
hold elevator doors. While Fauth, Korea is becoming more open,
modesty and fashion is still appreciated. For women, bare shoulders
or cleavage might attract more attention than say, short skirts.
Speaker 1 (10:36):
Interesting. So it sounds like while there are specific customs,
basic common sense and just being observant and willing to
adapt takes you a long way pretty much. But you know,
to truly grasp the profound differences and maybe the subtle
connections between these two Koreas, we need to look beyond
just surface customs. We need delve into the bedrock their
belief systems.
Speaker 2 (10:55):
Precisely, the spiritual landscape of Korea is as complex as
its history, and at fundamental shapes everything from daily behaviors
to state ideology. In South Korea, our sources show a
really diverse religious tapistry that twenty fourteen Gallop report, nearly
half the population forty six point five percent identifies as
having no formal religion. That's hot it is, but Buddhism
(11:16):
around twenty four point four percent, and Christianity Protestant at
twenty one point four percent Catholic at six point seven percent.
They coexist with almost equal strength among the religious population.
Speaker 1 (11:27):
That's quite unique compared to global patterns, isn't it? And Confucianism,
while not always listed as a formal religion, its philosophical
underpinning still profoundly influenced daily behavior and social structure. Like
we discussed exactly, this unique blend seems to reflect a
society navigating its spiritual identity. Historical philosophies subtly inform daily
(11:47):
life even for those without formal religion. It's a complex
interplay between tradition and modernity.
Speaker 2 (11:52):
But then you turn north to North Korea and the
landscape changes dramatically. The official ideology is juice or self reliance.
Speaker 1 (12:00):
Jusies broadly meaning self sufficiency broadly.
Speaker 2 (12:03):
Yes, championing North Korea's ability to develop independently without external influence.
But while it's a complex philosophy, our sources really highlight
its practical manifestation their profound deification of the Kim dynasty,
Kim Ilsung, Kim Jong Yale, Kim Jong Un. Their portraits
statues are everywhere, their words treated as sacred. Bowing or
(12:24):
showing deference isn't just expected, it's essential for survival.
Speaker 1 (12:27):
So this effectively replaces traditional religious practices entirely.
Speaker 2 (12:31):
It does. In fact, US travel advisories explicitly state that
promoting any religious activities, even accidentally leaving religious materials behind,
is illegal in North Korea and.
Speaker 1 (12:40):
Can lead to immediate arrest and detention.
Speaker 2 (12:42):
Exactly, it shows how the state controls not just physical life,
but belief systems too. There's very little room for anything
outside the state sanctioned ideology. The state is the ultimate authority,
even over belief.
Speaker 1 (12:55):
Chilling okay, let's shift gears a bit from ancient crafts
to modern pop culture. Korea's creative output is just undeniably
impactful globally.
Speaker 2 (13:03):
It really is. Historically, Korean arts flourished. Think back to
the Goryo Dynasty tenth century. Elegant jade green seladon pottery
with that unique inlay technique was invented then creates an
amazing optical effect like images floating on the surface.
Speaker 1 (13:19):
Beautiful stuff.
Speaker 2 (13:20):
And then there's military tech. A fascinating innovation was the Geobuxium,
the turtle warship, considered the world's first ironclad warship, built
by the legendary General Ye Sunshin in fifteen ninety two
during the Japanese.
Speaker 1 (13:33):
Invasion wow sixteenth century.
Speaker 2 (13:35):
Yep, you can even see replicas in museums around the
world today.
Speaker 1 (13:39):
Okay, speaking of things everyone knows and loves, let's talk food.
Rice seems truly central to Korean cuisine, reflecting that agricultural
history absolutely, and of course kimchi, the iconic fermented vegetable dish.
It defines Korean cuisine, really present at nearly every single
meal it is.
Speaker 2 (13:56):
But beyond kinschi, Korean cuisine uses these wonderful common ingredients douejung,
that rich savory for ment, to bean paste, go chijon,
the spicy hot pepper paste, ginger, garlic, sesame oil, making
me hungry me too. Meals typically feature multiple side dishes,
bon chens served alongside the main dish. Pork, especially grilled
pork belly sam jack saul is hugely popular. Beef once
(14:19):
a luxury, is more common now food is often grilled, steamed, fermented, pickled,
and there's a really rich culture of shared communal meals.
It emphasizes connection, hospitality.
Speaker 1 (14:30):
And then there's the phenomenon the Korean wave or HOLLEYU.
It's just swept the glow. Hasn't it just K pop
groups like BTS, Black Pink, global sensations, and it's not
just the music is it's the whole package, music, dance, fashion, performance.
These idols trained for years in intensive system.
Speaker 2 (14:47):
It's a whole industry. And K dramas too, celebrated for
emotional storytelling, strong characters, now increasingly tackling serious social issues,
mental health, class divides.
Speaker 1 (14:56):
And films like Parasite trained at bussan huge international claim
showing the depth of their cinematic creach.
Speaker 2 (15:02):
Definitely, this media influence, it reflects that blend of tradition
and trendiness. We talked about it showcases Korean cultural values,
but also soft power, that ability to influence through cultural
appeal and often with strong government support for these cultural exports.
South Korea is also known for leading global beauty and
skincare trends, aiming for that glass skin you know, that
(15:23):
incredibly clear, luminous look, multi step routines, innovative products. Oh yeah,
Chia beauty is huge and technology. South Korea is one
of the most connected countries globally. Widespread smartphone use, smart
home features are common. Even esports and gaming culture are massive,
progamers competing globally, a truly wired society.
Speaker 1 (15:44):
So we've journeyed through these two Koreas shaped by this
common past, but with these incredibly divergent modern realities. What
does it all mean for understanding the Korean Peninsula as
a whole.
Speaker 2 (15:54):
Well, if we try to connect it to the bigger picture.
Despite that stark political division since nineteen forty five, there's
still this undeniable shared cultural heritage, language ancestry spanning thousands
of years. Take the concept of face or cameon, for instance,
that appearance a person wants to project, especially regarding social status,
maintaining harmony. It's deeply ingrained across the culture, regardless of
(16:17):
the border.
Speaker 1 (16:17):
Hmmm, interesting, But the differences are just so dramatic. South
Korea the democratic republic, embracing global trends, rapid tech advancement,
a mix of traditional and hyper modern life. Ye North
Korea an authoritarian, single party state, highly controlled, strict limits
on personal freedom, information, even daily life. It's night and day,
it really is.
Speaker 2 (16:37):
And the travel experience itself just underscores this profound contrast.
For visitors, South Korea is largely Level one exercise normal precautions.
The etiquette guidelines mostly involve common sense and respect manageable right.
North Korea, however, is a Level four do not travel
advisory from the US government, and for good reason. The
(16:58):
serious risk of arbitrary rest, long term wrongful detention, and
virtually no consular assistance available if things.
Speaker 1 (17:06):
Go wrong terrifying.
Speaker 2 (17:07):
Really electronic devices are searched. Privacy is non existent. Any
action deemed disrespectful to leadership is treated as a severe crime.
This stark difference in freedom and risk. It's perhaps the
most profound manifestation of that division.
Speaker 1 (17:21):
We're an illuminating and sometimes sobering dive into Korea. You've
journeyed with us through centuries of shared heritage and into
these fascinating, starkly different realities of two nations today, from
ancient innovations like Celadon pottery and the total warship to
the global phenomenon of k pop, and from the enduring
influence of confusion values to the frankly chilling realities of
(17:41):
daily life in Pyongyang. It's a culture of incredible resilience,
but also immense complexity, and.
Speaker 2 (17:47):
It raises this important question, doesn't it. How does that
shared history, that fundamental cultural DNA continue to shape the
distinct identities of North and South Korea today and what
might that mean for their few, especially as younger generations
navigate these complex legacies. It truly is a testament to
the enduring human spirit, finding ways to preserve culture even
(18:09):
under the most disparate circumstances.
Speaker 1 (18:11):
We really hope this deep dive is giving you a richer,
more informed perspective on the Korean peninsula. Maybe it'll inspire
you to learn a few Hangul phrases, or perhaps explore
further the intricate ways culture and history intertwine. Until next time,
keep digging. Who we start
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