Homogeneous people
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"My country tis of thee" is the opening refrain of "America" a patriotic song by Samuel Francis Smith (first performed 190 years ago this Independence Day). Individualism is embodied in the lyrics. By contrast, in Korea it is always "our country".
Koreans are known to be homogeneous. Koreans refer themselves as HanMinJok, directly translated as ‘one ethnicity.’ This is based on the myth of Korea’s foundation which dates back 5,000 years and defines a single ethnic group.
Foreigners are 'outsiders' (literally – the word for foreigner is 'outside country person'.) There is a universal assumption that anyone who does not look Korean cannot speak Korean. Even long-term foreign residents who are required to pay taxes just like Koreans are often not eligible for social benefits such as reduced transportation costs for the elderly. A frequently asked question, even to long-term residents is, "When are you going home?" Foreigners are supposed to remain in Korea temporarily. Korea is for Koreans, for 'our minjok'.
Homogeneity was strengthened by the development of Hangul, the Korean alphabet, about 500 years ago. Before the Korean alphabet was created, Chinese characters were used for writing. Hangul was so simple that everyone was able to read and write. There are few countries with their own alphabet. Hangul created a strong bond among the people.
You can find reviews on global webpages written in Korean in an irregular spelling. These reviews were spelled irregularly so only Koreans could understand. The reviews start with compliments, in English or Korean, but all the negative factors regarding the product were written so only people who know Korean well are able to read the comments.
All Koreans are required to have a Citizens ID (CID), an identification system developed in 1968. The CID further emphasizes homogeneity at the expense of non-Koreans. The CID is used everywhere for identification, from creating a bank account to an email account on Google. Foreign residents, in turn have an Alien Registration Number (ARN) which is similar but clearly identifies the individual as a non-Korean. Extra steps are required when using an ARN rather than an CID.
Homogeneity is eroding in Korea. Koreans have extended experience overseas, the foreign population is growing, the internet has no national boundaries, and the younger generation is becoming more individualistic. However, there are still many cultural characteristics that are difficult to ascertain and understand but influence how Koreans interact with foreigners. When you are seeking to achieve your ambitious targets in Korea, let IRC Consulting guide your way.
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