Adjusting to Korean Culture: Challenges and Rewards

Living in South Korea as a foreigner, especially after coming from literally the opposite side of the world, Brazil, has been both challenging and rewarding. I’ve been here for six years now, and the cultural differences are something I continue to learn from every day. The adjustments haven’t always been easy but over time I’ve come to appreciate the things that make life in Korea so unique. The first challenge I faced was of course the language barrier. Korean is nothing like Portuguese, so even though I knew I had to learn, it felt overwhelming at first. I started with Hangul, the Korean alphabet, which is actually pretty straightforward compared to the language itself. Speaking Korean though, was a whole different story. I had a hard time understanding how to use polite forms of speech, which are so important in Korean culture. At first I would say the wrong thing at the wrong time, but thankfully people are understanding that it’s not your first language and appreciate your effort to learn. After some practice, I started to feel more comfortable and could communicate more effectively, even though I’m still learning. Another thing I had to get used to was how important hierarchy and respect are in everyday interactions. Back in Brazil, we’re pretty relaxed when it comes to talking to people, no matter their age or status. It’s common to use informal language with almost everyone, and sometimes it even feels like using casual speech makes people feel closer or more intimate. But in Korea, the way you speak to someone is influenced by their age, job, or relationship to you. At first, it was tough to adjust, and there were moments where I’d feel awkward or unsure if I was using the right tone. Over time, I realized how deeply this respect is woven into Korean culture. Even though it was difficult to get used to, I understood why it’s so important, and now I try my best to show that respect in my everyday interactions, even if it’s a challenge language-wise. Food was also a big part of my adjustment. The spiciness and sweetness of many dishes took me by surprise at first, and another difference is that meals here are often shared, with everyone eating from the same dishes. At first it felt strange, but now I can’t imagine eating without sharing. Over time I’ve become a huge fan of Korean food, and every time I go back to Brazil I find myself craving it. One of the rewards of living in Korea, though, has been the sense of efficiency and convenience. Public transportation here is clean, punctual, and affordable. There are also many apps that make it easy to get around, even if you don’t speak the language fluently. The subway systems are straightforward, and there’s always someone willing to help if you get lost. It’s one of those little things that makes daily life smoother. In the end, life in Korea has taught me to be adaptable and open-minded. I came here not knowing what to expect, but after six years, I feel like this place is home.