Most formal "hello" - annyeonghashimnikka (say this to the school principal, work bosses, the President or anyone really important)
Gift Giving
When meeting new people, being friendly or celebrating an event, people will often give gifts to each other! People sometimes give gifts to each other randomly just to be nice. When I first came to my new school, I gave gifts to my co-teachers!
History with North Korea
South Korea is still technically at war with North Korea. However, the two countries are not actively fighting. Lots of people in the United States think that South Koreans are constantly scared of North Korea, but this isn't true! In fact, North Korea is rarely talked about here.
Cleanliness
Did you know that Koreans don't wear shoes inside? Koreans wear slippers inside at home and at school! Also, people don't usually litter here. It is considered very rude.
Bus / Subway Culture
On the bus and subway, there are special-colored seats for elderly people, handicapped people and pregnant people. If you sit in these seats, people might give you a mean look. It is considered very rude to sit in those seats if you are not that identity!
It's important to learn about culture, but don't forget that people are always different no matter what culture or country they are from! Just like not all Americans are the same, not all Koreans are the same either.
