Treating someone with proper respect is important as it shows that you are a good member of the community.
This tradition is connected to Korea's social environment. Showing respect demonstrates that you are a responsible and good member of society. Being seen in these positive ways makes it easier for a person to find jobs or to make friends. Being part of the community is more important in Korean society because many situations are based off of being part of the community. It is even a little uncommon for individuals to eat alone, because eating alone can make it seem that you are not very social.
