South Korea Tourist Guides — Culture

This nation is not a moment.s monument. Just as Rome was not built in a day, so also the development of South Korea not completed in a very short period of time. The culture of Korea gradually evolved by the influence of natural environment, unique history and a wonderful climate. On one hand the Koreans are tolerant towards historical artifacts and architecture and refuse to consider these as redundant, on the other hand they have a passion for science and technology. This harmonious co-existence of the old and the new have slowly given shape to this unique culture that every Korean takes pride in. No wonder, UNESCO recognizes the value of this fascinating culture and have already included several Korean treasures in its world heritage list.

Food:
The influence of the west notwithstanding, Koreans prefer a simple fare. Rice is the staple food but they have enough resources and knowledge to prepare a variety of side dishes. Vegetable is cooked in different ways to suit the taste buds of different people. Boiled dishes are flavored with Soya sauce. Non-Veg. food items too are a delicacy. Grilled and pan-fried meat and fish can be had. People here are mad about seafood. Quite a few types of alcoholic beverages are produced in Korea. Remember the word .soju. if you desire to get a bit tipsy.

Rice has been a part of the Korean diet from before the Three Kingdom period. Earlier the grain was steamed but now it is boiled. Beans, millets and other grains are often added to not only enhance the nutrition level but also add a bit of flavor and color.

Kimchi means a lot to the people of South Korea and no meal is complete without it. It is a kind of fermented vegetable prepared by preserving different vegetable like Chinese cabbage, radish, cucumber, green onion, etc. in a mixture of salt and other ingredients. Seafood is sometimes added to enrich the taste and augment the fermentation process.

Soup is cooked with meat, fish, clams or other Seafood. Cold soups of cucumber are preferred in the summer.

Traditional sports:
The martial art called Taekwondo has been a good ambassador of the country worldwide. This internationally recognized form of self- defense helps in building the body and the mind. No wonder it is so popular. Ssirum is a Korean style wrestling, the origin of which can be traced to the days of the Three Kingdom.

Religion:
South Korea is a secular country where any person can practice his own belief. Buddhism and Confucianism are the predominant religion and have a great influence on the life and attitudes of men and women. Christianity too has been able to gather a sizable following and influence the social life of the country.

Language:
Korean system of alphabet is called .Hangul.. Developed under the patronage of King Sejong in 1443, it has 10 vowels and 14 consonants. The unique phonetic alphabet following scientific syllable system offer greater freedom of expression. Classified as Ural . Altaic language, it is completely different from Chinese and Japanese.

Music, Art and Literature:
Traditional music of Korea is similar to that of Japan or China. String instruments are popular. Chongak and Misnsogak are two forms of music. There are also different types of folk dance like drum dance, monk dance, mask dance and spirit cleansing dance. The city gates of Seoul testify to the architecture of Korea. Visual arts like painting and sculpturing are very well developed. The influence of Buddhism is undeniable. .Samguk Yusa. written by 12th century monk Illyon is considered to be the most important work of Korean literature.

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