Explanations on Korean way of thinking
โ ๏ธ This book is generated by AI, the content may not be 100% accurate.
1 Hierarchy and Respect
1.2 Respect for Elders
๐ Koreans show great respect for their elders, and it is considered rude to speak to them in a disrespectful way.
1.2.1 item Koreans believe that elders are wise and experienced, and that they should be respected as such.
- rationale:
- This belief is based on the Confucian ideal of filial piety, which emphasizes respect for oneโs parents and elders.
1.2.2 item Koreans believe that it is important to show respect for elders in all aspects of life, including in speech, behavior, and dress.
- rationale:
- This belief is reflected in the Korean language, which has a number of different honorifics that are used to address elders.
1.2.3 item Koreans believe that it is important to provide for elders in their old age.
- rationale:
- This belief is based on the Confucian ideal of filial piety, which emphasizes the importance of taking care of oneโs parents and elders.
1.2.4 item Koreans believe that it is important to listen to the advice of elders.
- rationale:
- This belief is based on the Confucian ideal of filial piety, which emphasizes the importance of respecting the wisdom of oneโs parents and elders.
1.2.5 item Koreans believe that it is important to maintain a harmonious relationship with elders.
- rationale:
- This belief is based on the Confucian ideal of harmony, which emphasizes the importance of maintaining peace and order in all aspects of life.
1.3 Saving Face
๐ Koreans are very concerned about saving face, and they will often go to great lengths to avoid embarrassing themselves or others.
1.3.1 item Koreans are often reluctant to criticize others directly, as this could cause the other person to lose face.
- rationale:
- Koreans value harmony and social cohesion, and they believe that direct criticism can be disruptive and damaging to relationships.
1.3.2 item Koreans often avoid making eye contact with strangers, as this could be seen as a sign of disrespect.
- rationale:
- Koreans believe that it is important to show respect for others, and they avoid making eye contact with strangers as a way of showing that they are not trying to challenge or confront them.
1.3.3 item Koreans often use indirect language when speaking to others, as this can help to avoid causing offense.
- rationale:
- Koreans believe that it is important to be polite and respectful when speaking to others, and they often use indirect language as a way of avoiding saying something that could be hurtful or embarrassing.
1.3.4 item Koreans often give gifts to others as a way of showing appreciation or respect.
- rationale:
- Koreans believe that giving gifts is a way of showing that they care about others and that they value their relationships.
1.3.5 item Koreans often avoid speaking about their personal problems or difficulties, as this could be seen as a sign of weakness.
- rationale:
- Koreans believe that it is important to be strong and independent, and they often avoid speaking about their personal problems as a way of showing that they are not weak or needy.
1.4 Group Harmony
๐ Koreans value group harmony, and they will often put the needs of the group above their own individual needs.
1.4.1 item Koreans tend to avoid direct confrontation and conflict, as it is seen as disruptive to group harmony.
- rationale:
- Koreans place a high value on maintaining social harmony, and direct conflict is seen as a threat to this harmony. As such, Koreans will often try to avoid direct confrontation and conflict, and will instead try to resolve issues through indirect means, such as negotiation or compromise.
1.4.2 item Koreans are often willing to sacrifice their own individual needs for the sake of the group.
- rationale:
- Koreans believe that the group is more important than the individual, and that the needs of the group should come first. As such, Koreans are often willing to sacrifice their own individual needs for the sake of the group, such as by working long hours or taking on additional responsibilities.
1.4.3 item Koreans value consensus and cooperation.
- rationale:
- Koreans believe that consensus and cooperation are essential for maintaining group harmony. As such, Koreans will often try to reach consensus on decisions, and will work together to achieve common goals.
1.4.4 item Koreans are often reluctant to express their own opinions if they believe it will disrupt group harmony.
- rationale:
- Koreans believe that it is important to maintain group harmony, and that expressing oneโs own opinions can be disruptive to this harmony. As such, Koreans are often reluctant to express their own opinions if they believe it will disrupt group harmony.
1.4.5 item Koreans often use indirect communication to avoid conflict.
- rationale:
- Koreans believe that indirect communication is a more polite and respectful way to communicate, and that it helps to avoid conflict. As such, Koreans often use indirect communication, such as hints, suggestions, or parables, to express their thoughts and feelings.
1.5 Indirect Communication
๐ Koreans often communicate indirectly, and they may not always say what they mean directly.
1.5.1 item Koreans often avoid direct confrontation, as it is seen as impolite and disrespectful.
- rationale:
- In Korean culture, harmony and maintaining relationships are highly valued. Direct confrontation can be seen as disruptive to these values.
1.5.2 item Koreans may use indirect language or hints to convey their thoughts and feelings.
- rationale:
- Direct communication can be seen as too forward or aggressive, so Koreans may use more subtle methods to express themselves.
1.5.3 item The use of honorifics and polite speech is essential in Korean communication.
- rationale:
- Honorifics show respect for the social status and age of the person you are speaking to. Using polite speech is a way of showing that you are considerate of others.
1.5.4 item Koreans may use silence or nonverbal cues to communicate.
- rationale:
- Silence can be used to show respect, agreement, or contemplation. Nonverbal cues, such as facial expressions and gestures, can also be used to convey messages.
1.5.5 item It is important to be aware of the cultural context when interpreting Korean communication.
- rationale:
- The meaning of words and gestures can vary depending on the cultural context. It is important to be mindful of this when communicating with Koreans.