Back in Indonesia, there is a term that we grew up learning called “gotong royong”. To put it simply, it means that when there is someone in need or a task to be done, everyone comes together to complete what is necessary. In Korea, most people prefer to do things individually at their own pace. There is, of course, no “correct” way to do things, but just simply different preferred methods to reach the goal.
After interacting with people from various backgrounds, I can confirm that my home country has the reputation of having friendly people. Many would say that even when they’re alone, they never really have the chance to feel lonely because of the many smiles and greetings they’d get from the people around them. In contrary, I have read multiple remarks on community discussions that South Korea can feel unfriendly and individualistic to outsiders.
However, I have to disagree with them because even though people don’t look at you straight in the eyes, silent acts of kindness are still performed, even if they sometimes go unnoticed. There have been instances where people helped me carry my heavy suitcase down the stairs without even expecting a thank you in return. Some chased me down the street when I accidentally left my phone at a restaurant.
In other countries, these actions might always be paired with small talk and greetings, but in Korea the quiet gestures stand strongly alone. Compassion may not always be shown through words, but you can see that kindness is there. One can be loud in showing care, but another displays their effort through subtle gestures and personal care. Living between the two has made me realize that being more observant and more grateful is important in order to truly appreciate the company we have around us.
Photo from: Seoul Metropolitan Government Website
Back in Indonesia, there is a term that we grew up learning called “gotong royong”. To put it simply, it means that when there is someone in need or a task to be done, everyone comes together to complete what is necessary. In Korea, most people prefer to do things individually at their own pace. There is, of course, no “correct” way to do things, but just simply different preferred methods to reach the goal.
After interacting with people from various backgrounds, I can confirm that my home country has the reputation of having friendly people. Many would say that even when they’re alone, they never really have the chance to feel lonely because of the many smiles and greetings they’d get from the people around them. In contrary, I have read multiple remarks on community discussions that South Korea can feel unfriendly and individualistic to outsiders.
However, I have to disagree with them because even though people don’t look at you straight in the eyes, silent acts of kindness are still performed, even if they sometimes go unnoticed. There have been instances where people helped me carry my heavy suitcase down the stairs without even expecting a thank you in return. Some chased me down the street when I accidentally left my phone at a restaurant.
In other countries, these actions might always be paired with small talk and greetings, but in Korea the quiet gestures stand strongly alone. Compassion may not always be shown through words, but you can see that kindness is there. One can be loud in showing care, but another displays their effort through subtle gestures and personal care. Living between the two has made me realize that being more observant and more grateful is important in order to truly appreciate the company we have around us.
Photo from: Seoul Metropolitan Government Website