Are Koreans friendly?
You might not consider Koreans friendly if you only visit for a two-week vacation. They don’t greet and wave like North Americans. Waving to a Korean stranger passing by on the sidewalk will only return a curious stare. People generally give only a slight nod of the head acknowledging one another in passing. It’s a completely different story, however, once you’ve been introduced. Korean’s are a good natured and friendly people. Over the course of a year, shop owners, colleagues, students and their families become close friends. You’ll dine with them, travel, visit their homes, celebrate holidays and festivals. Many will become life-long friends. Don’t be surprised if you’re asked out drinking – it’s a favourite, or to a noribong (Korean’s equivalent of Karaoke). Remember, the person inviting is also the person paying. Going “Dutch” or splitting the bill is not the custom in Korea.
