Koreans as seen through foreign eyes

Koreans as Seen Through Foreign Eyes

 

When foreigners view Koreans, the image that most readily comes to mind is that of “people who move together.” In Korean society, individuals tend to define themselves not as isolated beings but as members of communities—family, school, and workplace. As a result, the word “we” often comes before “I,” and personal choices are frequently made with consideration for harmony within the group. This strong sense of community can at times appear to constrain individual freedom, yet it has also shown remarkable power of solidarity in times of crisis and has long served as a force sustaining Korean society.

 

Another key concept for understanding Koreans is jeong, a uniquely Korean sense of affection and emotional bond. Foreigners often remark that Koreans may initially seem reserved or distant, but once a relationship is formed, they display unexpectedly deep warmth and devotion. Quiet acts of care, attentiveness that goes beyond what is strictly necessary, and a reluctance to sever relationships can sometimes appear intrusive. Beneath these behaviors, however, lies a heartfelt appreciation for human connections. This jeong extends beyond ties of blood or region and permeates society as a whole, creating a distinctly Korean sense of human warmth.

 

One characteristic that foreigners find particularly striking is the speed of Korean society. The so-called “ppalli-ppalli” (hurry-hurry) culture reveals itself in everyday life—rapid service, swift decision-making, and immediate execution. These traits make Korea appear highly efficient. This emphasis on speed is not merely a matter of temperament; it is a collective habit shaped by historical experience, especially the need to rebuild the nation and achieve industrialization in a short time after the war. Speed is one of Korea’s strengths, but it can also deprive people of rest and leisure.

 

Koreans’ intense zeal for education and strong orientation toward achievement are also clearly visible to foreign observers. Studying and hard work are seen not only as paths to individual success but as matters closely tied to family honor. The belief that “effort will pay off” is deeply rooted throughout society. While this attitude makes Koreans appear diligent and industrious, it also leads foreigners to view them as people under constant pressure from competition and comparison.

 

The hierarchical order that places importance on age and position is another unfamiliar aspect for many foreigners. Asking about age at a first meeting and adjusting one’s language and behavior accordingly reflect a tradition that values order and respect. However, for those accustomed to more horizontal relationships, this hierarchy can feel like a barrier to free and open communication. This culture embodies both the virtue of respect and consideration and the limitation of rigidity.

 

Foreigners also frequently note that although Koreans may appear outwardly calm and gentle, they possess strong inner resolve and endurance. Rather than expressing emotions openly, they tend to endure quietly and display intense focus at critical moments. This quality is often summarized by the phrase “gentle on the outside, strong on the inside.” Usually unnoticed, this inner strength emerges in times of crisis and reveals the resilience of Korean society.

 

Finally, Koreans are perceived as highly adaptable to change. They embrace elements of tradition and modernity, as well as Eastern and Western influences, without major conflict, and they absorb new technologies and cultures with remarkable speed. This flexibility has been a key factor enabling Korean society to stand shoulder to shoulder with the world in a relatively short time.

 

Seen through foreign eyes, Koreans are people of deep jeong who move together, act quickly, endure patiently, and persevere to the end. These traits can sometimes lead to misunderstanding or burden, but they have also been the most powerful driving forces behind Korea’s development to where it is today. The Korean character is not simply an ethnic disposition; it is a way of life shaped by history, experience, and human relationships.