KoreanTraditions

Family Life
In traditional Korea, the typical family was large with three or four generations usually living together.
Because infant mortality was high and a big family was thought of as a blessing, having many children
was desired. However, the rapid industrialization and urbanization of the country in the 1960s and
1970s were accompanied by an effective birth control drive, and the average number of children in a
family dramatically decreased to two or less in the 1980s.
Having a long Confucian tradition under which the eldest son takes over as head of the family, a
preference for sons was prevalent in Korea. To tackle the problem of male preference, the government
has completely rewritten family-related laws in a way that ensures equality for sons and daughters in
terms of inheritance.
Industrialization of the country has made life more hectic and complicated. Young married couples
have begun to separate from their extended families and start their own homes. Now almost all
families are couple-centered nuclear families.
Marriage
Koreans think marriage is the most important passage in one's life and a divorce is regarded as a
disgrace not only for the couple but also for their families even though the divorce rate is growing
rapidly these days. Today's typical wedding ceremony is somewhat different from what it was in old
times: first a Western-style ceremony is usually held at a wedding hall or a church with the bride
wearing a white dress and the groom wearing a tuxedo, then later in the day the bride and groom have
a traditional ceremony at a different room in the venue, in colorful traditional costumes.
Jerye (Ancestral Memorial Rite)
According to a traditional Korean belief, when people die, their spirits do not immediately depart; they
stay with descendants for four generations. During this period the deceased are still regarded as family
members and Koreans reaffirm the relationship between ancestors and descendants through jerye on
the special days like Sollal (Lunar New Year's Day) and Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving Day), as well as
on the anniversary the ancestors passed away. Koreans also believe that people can live well and
happily thanks to benefits their ancestors bestow upon them.
Body Language
When you beckon to a person, do so with your palm down, and then flutter your hand up and down
with your fingers touching together. It is not polite to beckon with your palm up especially using only
one finger, because Koreans do that only for dogs!
Traditional Korean Clothing (Hanbok)
The hanbok has been the Korean people's unique traditional costume for thousands of years. The
beauty and grace of Korean culture can be seen in photographs of women dressed in the hanbok.
Before the arrival of Western-style clothing one hundred years ago, the hanbok was everyday attire.
Men wore jeogori (Korean jackets) with baji (trousers) while women wore jeogori with chima (skirt).

Today, the hanbok is worn on days of celebration such as wedding, Seollal (Lunar New Year's Day) or
Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving Day).
Traditional Korean Houses
A traditional Korean house is called 'Hanok'. Hanok sought to create a living space based on the
coexistence of nature and humans. Accordingly, the natural aspects of a traditional Korean houses
range from the structure's inner layout to the building materials which were used. Another unique
feature of traditional houses is their special design for cooling the interior in the summer and heating
the interior in the winter. Since Korea has such hot summers and cold winters, the 'ondol gudeul,' a
floor-based heating system and 'daecheong,' a cool wooden-floor style hall were devised long ago to
help Koreans survive the frigid winters and to make the sweltering and humid summers bearable.
These primitive types of heating and air-conditioning were so effective that they are still in use in many
homes today.

President of South Korea

The President of the Republic of Korea ( ; ) is,
according to the South Korean constitution, the chairman of the cabinet, the chief
executive of the government, commander-in-chief of the armed forces, and the head of
state of South Korea. The Constitution and the amended Presidential Election Act of
1987 provide for election of the president by direct, secret ballot, ending sixteen
years of indirect presidential elections under the preceding two governments. The
president is directly elected to a five-year term with no possibility of re-election. [1] If a
presidential vacancy should occur, a successor must be elected within sixty days,
during which time presidential duties are to be performed by the prime minister or
other senior cabinet members in the order of priority as determined by law. While in
office, the chief executive lives in Cheong Wa Dae (the "Blue House"), and is exempt
from criminal liability (except for insurrection or treason).
On February 25, 2013, Park Geun-hye became the 11th and current president. She is
also the country's first woman to assume this post.

Prime Minister of North Korea

Kim Jong-un (Chosn'gl: ; Korean: [ im dd d n];[5] born 8 January 1984[3]) is
the Chairman of the Workers' Party of Korea and supreme leader of the Democratic People's
Republic of Korea (DPRK), commonly referred to as North Korea.
Kim is the third and youngest son of Kim Jong-il (19412011) and his consort Ko Yonghui.[6] Little is known for certain about Kim Jong-un. Before taking power, Kim had
barely been seen in public, and many of the activities of both Kim and his
government remain shrouded in secrecy. [7] Even details such as what year he was
born, and whether he did indeed attend a Western school under a pseudonym, are
difficult to confirm with certainty.
Kim was officially declared the supreme leader following the state funeral of his father on
28 December 2011. Kim holds the titles of Chairman of the Workers' Party of Korea,
Chairman of the Central Military Commission, Chairman of the National Defence
Commission, Supreme Commander of the Korean People's Army,[1] and presidium member of
thePolitburo of the Workers' Party of Korea.[8]

Kim was promoted to the rank of Marshal of North Korea in the Korean People's Army on
18 July 2012, consolidating his position as the Supreme Commander of the Armed
Forces[9]and is often referred to as Marshal Kim Jong-un or "the Marshal" by state
media.[10][11]
Kim obtained two degrees, one in physics at Kim Il-sung University, and another as an
Army officer at the Kim Il-sung Military University.[12][13]
On 9 March 2014, Kim Jong-un was elected unopposed to the Supreme People's
Assembly. At 32 years of age, Kim is the first North Korean leader born after the
country's founding. Kim was named the World's 46th Most Powerful Person by
the Forbes list of The World's Most Powerful People in 2013

Spiritual Health in Korean Culture

Abstract
PURPOSE: This paper is a basic study done to establish spiritual health concepts according to Korean culture.
The focus was on identifying perceived concepts of spiritual health in Korean people. METHODS: The Q
method, which is effective in measuring individual subjectivity, was used in this study. RESULTS: Perception of
the concept of spiritual health was found to have 3 independent types, Type I is a self-directed, present life
centered type. This is a group stressing the importance of planning self-directed life and the people of this
group consider the values of the present life as important. Type II is a faith-oriented, afterlife centered type.
This is a group whose essence of spiritual health is religious devotion like faith in god and the people of this
group do not sympathize with the oriental world view. Type III is an oriental, value-sharing type. This is a group
with an oriental world view and the people of this group stress importance in sharing values with communities
or others. CONCLUSION: These results not only become the basis for understanding the concept of spiritual
health among Koreans, but also suggest the necessity of comprehensive education for spiritual health
promotion.

Public Holidays In South Korea By Date

New Years Day (January 1st) Referred to as Solar New Years by most Korean
citizens.
Lunar New Year (First Day of the First Month by the Lunar Calendar) One of the
most celebrated holidays in Korea (and east Asia). Visiting family, worshipping
ancestors, eating traditional Korean dishes and taking part in century old traditions
all come to life during this color national holiday.
Korean Independence Day (March 1st) Koreans observe the anniversary of the
March 1, 1919 Independence Movement against Japanese rule.
Arbor Day (April 5th) On this day, government officials, teachers, school children
and thousands of Koreans throughout the country plant trees in accordance with the
governments reforestation program. Note: Not all Korean schools view Arbor Day as
a true national holiday.
Childrens Day (May 5th)This is the day that Korean parents spoil their children
with gifts, treats, games and trips to theme parks, zoos and other prominent areas
that are of interest to younger children.
Budhhas Birthday (Eighth Day of the Fourth Month by the Lunar Calendar)
Solemn rituals are held at Buddhist temples, and the days festivities are climaxed
by a number of famous lantern parades across the country.
Memorial Day (June 6th) On this day the nation pays tribute to its war dead.
Memorial services are held at the National Cemetery in Seoul.
Constitution Day (July 17th) This day commemorates the adoption of the Republic
of Korea Constitution in 1948. Note: As of 2008 Constitution Day is no longer a

Korean national holiday. Korea will continue to celebrate this day but government
offices, schools and private businesses will remain open.
Liberation Day (August 15th) In 1945, Korea was liberated from Japan after 35
years of colonial rule. The day also marks the 1948 establishment of the
government of the Republic of Korea.
Harvest Moon Festival a.k.a Korean Thanks Giving (14th through the 16th of
the Eighth Month of the Lunar Calendar) The most important national holiday of the
year. During these 3 days Koreans gather with family members to honor their
deceased ancestors, clean off their ancestors tombs, give food and drink offerings,
and pray.
National Foundation Day (October 3rd) This day marks the founding of Korea by
Tan-gun (God-King) in 2333 B.C. Koreans celebrate over 4000 years of history
during this holiday.
Christmas Day (December 25th) Christians and other citizens celebrate this holy
day as in the West.

Sports in South Korea

South Korea has traditional sports of its own, as well as sports from different cultures and
countries.
Taekwondo, a popular martial sport is often claimed to have historical origins on the
Korean peninsula with origins said to have been traced as far back as the 1st
century BCE[1]. However, such historical claims are difficult to empirically verify and
separate from the influences of neighboring counties. The sport rose to prominence
following the end of Japanese occupation with the end of WWII. Formalized rules
were established in 1961 and in 1988 the sport became an Olympic event. The
name "Taekwondo" literally means way of foot and fist, although the modern
emphasis lies on the kicks. This may be a way to help legitimize the sport's
connection to the traditional practice called Taekkyeon, which originated in Korea
during the Goguryeo period in the 4th century[2]. Taekkyeon uses open hands and the
feet, where as the use of clenched fists is not permitted. The motions are smoother
and more curvilinear than in Taekwondo[3]. Although both disciplines start with the
sound "tae" in English, there is no relationship.
Although there is much controversy regarding the historical origins of many martial
disciplines in South Korea, there is little question that, Koreanized or traditional in
origin, Korean martial arts and sports have enjoyed considerable success. Styles
such as Hapkido, Kuk Sool, Hwarangdo, Han Moo Do, Yudo, Kumdo, Goog-sool, and
many others arose quickly out of an independent Korea and have spread to
countries around the world. Although they are not as popular as Taekwondo, they
each uniquely represent the Korean martial spirit which dates back to antiquity.
Unlike Japanese martial arts which often use "-do" at a name's end (meaning
"way"), traditional Korean martial arts were called "Mu Sool" or "Mu Yea". This could
lead to some confusion since although the "do" in Taekwondo and Hapkido means
"way" (as in Karate-do and Aikido), the historical meaning in Hwarangdo is different
from the modern usage (also "way" like the others). When that martial art was
invented in the 1960s, the name was borrowed from an ancient group (do)
consisting mainly of the children of the gentry class (yangban) for learning military
tactics, leadership, and fighting skills.

Korean Cultural Beliefs

As the culture of a country develops over the centuries -- and for Korea, there have
been many centuries -- its people evolve a very distinct sense of belonging, and
begin to differentiate themselves from the other cultures of the world. Especially
when two cultures develop very far apart from one another, the members of each
will find the differences between the two cultures very pronounced. Asian cultures
and customs have long been a source of fascination for many North Americans and
Western Europeans, and continue to be today. Of course, everyone knows that
Koreans eat a lot of rice, that family is very important, and that any large parade is
going to have at least one dragon, but stay tuned for some of the more subtle
details that you really have to live there for a while to know about. For a normally
serious people, some of these will make you scratch your head a little.

Fan Death
The very first time you hear a Korean talking about fan death, its not something that
really phases you. It just sounds so absurd that your brain automatically files it
under the same category with the Loch Ness Monster, Big Foot and crossing black
cats on the road. In fact, you will probably still have more fear in your heart directed
at crossing those black cats later in the day. In a nutshell, the premise is this.
If you sleep in a room with a fan on and the windows closed: You will die.
True story. There are a multitude of reasons why Koreans believe this happens. The
most common of these seems to be that, especially if the fan is placed very close to
the sleeping person it will suck away the air from the persons face, and the person
will die in their sleep, suffocated. Other common beliefs include:

Because when you are breathing, you breathe in oxygen and breathe out carbon dioxide,
during the night carbon dioxide levels will increase due to the combination of the fan --which is
also reported to use up oxygen-- and closed windows and you will asphyxiate due to low
oxygen levels.

That the fan will cause the temperature in the room to drop to the point where you will
be susceptible to hypothermia, due to the body's decreased metabolism at night and therefore
increased sensitivity to cold during sleep.

That the fan's spinning blades will chop up all the oxygen particles in the room so that there
will be none to breathe.

That a partial vacuum is created when the spinning of the fan causes a small vortex to
happen, sucking all the oxygen out of the room.

That during very hot weather in the summer, the fan will cause a perceived lowering of room
temperature, and the person will actually suffer from hyperthermia, or heat stroke.

The last theory of fan death, that involves a lower perceived room temperature, is the only
one that is substantiated in any way. Even then, it can not by its self cause death, only
tricking you into thinking that you are cooler than you are. Similar in a way to saying that
coffee causes death by drunk driving. Not exactly a firm connection. The Korean Consumer
Protection Board however, does not agree. A public safety announcement on their website
(here) reads:
Doors should be left open when sleeping with the electric fan or air conditioner
turned on
If bodies are exposed to electric fans or air conditioners for too long, it causes bodies to
lose water and hypothermia. If directly in contact with a fan, this could lead to death from
increase of carbon dioxide saturation concentration and decrease of oxygen
concentration. The risks are higher for the elderly and patients with respiratory problems.
From 2003~2005, a total of 20 cases were reported through the CISS involving
asphyxiations caused by leaving electric fans and air conditioners on while sleeping. To
prevent asphyxiation, timers should be set, wind direction should be rotated and doors
should be left open.

Blood Type Influences Personality

This widely held belief in Korean and Japanese culture started in the 1920s, and
although it is a myth that has been debunked several times since then, it has
persisted in its popularity over the years. The Korean theory of blood type and
personality can best be compared to the way westerners view zodiac signs. Just as
your zodiac sign influences your personality and predicts certain things about your
life, so does your blood type in Korea or in Japan. It is not considered to be as far
reaching as the zodiac sign, as it really just a commentary on your personality but,
there are many books about what the best job is for each blood type, and how
different blood types react in different situations and even about how romance
works between the blood types and who is the best match for each type.
Even on celebrity profiles in Korea and Japan, blood type is listed. If blood type is not
listed, your biography or profile is considered to be pretty well incomplete. Its one of
the first things you ask a new friend, especially a member of the opposite sex you
think is attractive. In fact, it is so common, that Koreans think it is quite strange
when westerners, or anyone for that matter, doesn't know his or her own blood
type.
A quick rundown of the best and worst personality traits looks like this:

Type A
Best traits
Earnest, creative, sensible
Worst traits
Fastidious, over-earnest

Type B
Best traits
Wild, active, doer
Worst traits
Selfish, irresponsible

Type AB
Best traits
Cool, controlled, rational
Worst traits
Critical, indecisive

Type O
Best traits
Agreeable, sociable, optimistic
Worst traits
Vain, rude

According to Bella Online, an international site for women, the best compatibility matches are as
follows:
A is most compatible with A and AB
B is most compatible with B and AB
AB is most compatible with AB, B, A and O
O is most compatible with O, and AB
The popularity of understanding personalities through blood type lost popularity in the 1940s after it's
original champion's death, but was re-popularized in the 1970s by Masahiko Nomi, a
Japanese lawyer who's books have been phenomenally popular, despite is lack of medical
background, and questionable, anecdotal research. Until recently it was not uncommon for children
in kindergarten classrooms, as well as employees at work to be divided by blood type so they would
work better together.

Other beliefs...
Although those are the two major common beliefs that most westerners find intriguing as they get to
know there Korean culture, there are also some others that are of note:

Never write a Korean name in red ink, as it is associated with death and brings bad luck.

Many Korean buildings, especially the older ones do not have a fourth floor as the number
four in Chinese-Korean numbering is similar to the word for death and is therefore considered
to be bad luck.

Although the famous '63 Building' on Yeoido island in Seoul has a fourth floor, according
to this article by the Korean TImes, it does not have a 44th floor. Apparently 'double death' was
just too much.

Valentine's Day in Korea is a day when women give men presents. White Day, one month
later on March 14, is for the men to return the favour.

A month after White Day is Black Day on April 14. Single people celebrate their singlness
and eat noodles with black sauce.

In spite of, or perhaps because of, all of these crazy beliefs, Korea actually is an amazing country,
that you should visit if you ever get the opportunity. The people are warm and friendly, and will go out
of their way to make sure that you have an amazing time and a pleasant stay. Just don't be surprised

if they remind you to open your window when you sleep, or ask you what your blood type is within
minutes of making your acquaintance.
Buddhism
Buddhism first made its way into Korea in the 2nd year (A.D. 372) of the reign of King Sosurim of the Goguryeo
Kingdom. After its introduction, Buddhism exerted a powerful influence in the Baekje Kingdom and Silla Kingdom. The
Bulguksa Temple and the Seokguram Grotto, which are designated as World Cultural Heritage sites by UNESCO, are
Buddhist creations from the Silla Kingdom that are said to reflect the importance of Buddhism at this time.
Buddhism has exercised a far-reaching influence on Korean culture throughout its long history. Koreas invaluable
Buddhist heritage abides in the nations buildings, sculptures, paintings and handicrafts.
Protestantism & Catholicism
Protestantism came to Korea after the signing of the Korean-American Treaty in 1882. Since Christianity challenged
the basic values of Joseon society, its believers were subject to persecution in the early years, but as Christians took
an increasingly active role in the anti-colonial struggle against the Japanese and churches promoted more educational
opportunities, Christianity gained more acceptance. Today Korean churches evangelize abroad, and approximately
twenty five percent of the Korean population is Christian. Catholicism first came to Korea as a western academic
theory. Korean tributary missions to the imperial court of China took an interest in Jesuit missionary books and
brought them back to Korea for further study. In 1784, the first Korean was baptized in Beijing and returned to Korea
to set up a house of worship. Despite considerable persecution by the government, numerous people joined the
Catholic Church. Presently, over two million people in Korea belong to the Catholic church.
Confucianism
Confucianism was a common philosophy in ancient Korea that brought about profound changes and exerted
considerable influence on the Korean people. It has become an indispensable component of the Korean moral
system, way of life, and national law. Confucianism, which was the major philosophy of the Joseon Dynasty, eventually
gave rise to Silhak, or practical learning. Confucianism has deeply permeated the consciousness of Korean people
and can be seen today in many forms, including two ceremonies that continue today: Jongmyo Jerye, the royal
ancestral service at Jongmyo Shrine, and Seokjeon Daeje, the worship rites at the Seonggyungwan in honor of
Confucius, his disciples, and other celebrated Chinese and Korean Confucian scholars.
Shamanism
Various shamanistic practices are deeply ensconced in Korean life. Modern shamanism still remains very similar to
folk beliefs from ancient times, as it has remained relatively uninfluenced by Buddhist tradition. It is closely related to
the rituals of primitive cults and communal rites for the gods of heaven. Even today, Shamanism in Korea is a practice
that seeks to solve human problems through a meeting between humans and the spirits. This fundamental principle
can be seen in the various types of shamanistic rites which are still widely practiced today.

Korean New Year

Korean New Year (Hangul: ; RR: Seolnal; MR: Sllal, also known
as: Wondan (; ), Wonil (; ), Sinwon (; )) is the first day of
the Korean lunar calendar. It is one of the most significant traditional Korean
holidays. The celebration lasts three days: the day before Korean New Year day,
Korean New Year day itself, and the day after Korean New Year day. "Seollal"
generally refers to Eumnyeok Seollal ( , lunar new year), also known
as Gujeong (Hangul: ; Hanja: ). "Seollal" may also refer to Yangnyeok
Seollal ( , solar new year), also known as Sinjeong (Hangul: ; Hanja: ).
Korean New Year generally falls on the day of the second new moon after winter
solstice, unless there is a very rare intercalary eleventh or twelfth month in the
lead-up to the New Year. In such a case, the New Year falls on the day of the third
new moon after the solstice; the next occurrence of this will be in 2033.

Korean New Year is generally the same day as Chinese New Year except when new
moon occurs between 15:00 UTC (Korean midnight) and 16:00 UTC (Chinese
midnight). In such case (on average once every 24 years), new moon happens on
the "next day" in Korea compared to China, and Korean New Year will be one day
after Chinese New Year.

Christmas in South Korea

There are more Christians in South Korea (the Republic of Korea) than in other asian
countries such as China andJapan, so Christmas is celebrated more widely.
(Christians make up about 25-30% of the population.) However, the other 70% of
people in South Korea are Buddhist (about 25%) or don't have a religion.
Unlike Japan, Christmas is an official public holiday - so people have the day off work
and school! But they go back on the 26th (Boxing Day). There's a longer official
winter break in the New Year.
Churches are decorated with lights and many have a bright red neon cross on top
(all the year!) so that goes very well with the Christmas lights! Most churches will
have a service on Christmas day. Going to Church for Christmas is becoming more
popular, even among non Christians.
Department stores put on big displays of decorations. There's also an amazing
display of lights in the capital city, Seoul. The lights are all over the city center
including the bridges over the Han River.
Some people (especially Christians and westerns who live in South Korea) will have
decorations at home including aChristmas tree.
Presents are exchanged and a popular present is money! Giving actually gifts has
become more popular, but giving money is still very common.
Santa Claus can also be seen around Korea but he might be wearing red or blue!
He's also known as (santa kullosu) or (Santa Grandfather).
A popular Christmas food is a Christmas Cake, but it's often a sponge cake covered
in cream brought from a local bakery! Or you might even have an ice cream cake
from a shop like 'Baskin Robbins'!
Happy/Merry Christmas in Korean is 'Meri krismas' ( ) or 'Jeulgaeun
krismas doeseyo' ( ). Christians can say 'Sungtan
chukhahaeyo' ( ) to celebrate the birth of Jesus. Happy/Merry Christmas
in lots more languages.
If you live in North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea) Christmas will be
very different. Being a Christian is 'officially' allowed but you can go to prison, or
even be killed for being a Christian or even having a Bible. Christians in North Korea
have to meet in secret and any celebrations of Christmas will also be held in secret.

Traditional Culture of Korea

The traditional culture of Korea refers to the shared cultural heritage of the Korean
Peninsula. Since the mid-20th century, the peninsula has been split politically
between and, resulting in a number of cultural differences. [1][2][3][4] Before Joseon Dynasty,
the practice of Korean shamanism was deeply rooted in the Korean culture

Traditional arts
Dance
Main article: Korean dance

Jinju geommu

Music, there is a distinction between court dance and folk dance. Common court
dances are jeongjaemu () performed at banquets, and ilmu (), performed
at Korean Confucian rituals. Jeongjaemu is divided into native dances (
, hyangak jeongjae) and forms imported from Central Asia and China (
, dangak jeongjae). Ilmu are divided into civil dance (, munmu) and military
dance (, mumu). Many mask dramas and mask dances are performed in many
regional areas of Korea.[7] The traditional clothing is the genja, it is a special kind of
dress that women wear on festivals. It is pink with multiple symbols around the neck
area.
Traditional choreography of court dances is reflected in many contemporary
productions.
Taekkyeon, a traditional Korean martial art, is central to the classic Korean dance.
Taekkyeon, being a complete system of integrated movement, found its core
techniques adaptable to mask, dance and other traditional artforms of Korea.

Painting
Main article: Korean painting

Korean horseback archery in the fifth century

The earliest paintings found on the Korean peninsula are petroglyphs of prehistoric
times. With the arrival of Buddhism from India via China, different techniques were
introduced. These techniques quickly established themselves as the mainstream
techniques, but indigenous techniques still survived.

There is a tendency towards naturalism with subjects such as realistic landscapes,

flowers and birds being particularly popular. Ink is the most common material used,
and it is painted on mulberry paper or silk.
In the 18th century indigenous techniques were advanced, particularly in
calligraphy and seal engraving.
Arts are both influenced by tradition and realism. For example, Hans nearphotographic "Break Time at the Ironworks" shows muscular men dripping with
sweat and drinking water from tin cups at a sweltering foundry. Jeong Sons "Peak
Chonnyo of Mount Kumgang" is a classical Korean landscape of towering cliffs
shrouded by mists.[8]

Crafts
Blue and White Porcelain Peach-Shaped Water Dropper from the Joseon Dynasty 18th century

Lacquer drawer with mother-of-pearl inlay, at the National Museum of Korea in Seoul

There is a unique set of handicrafts produced in Korea. Most of the handicrafts are
created for a particular everyday use, often giving priority to the practical use
rather than aesthetics. Traditionally, metal, wood, fabric, lacquerware,
and earthenware were the main materials used, but later glass, leather or paper
have sporadically been used.
Ancient handicrafts, such as red and black pottery, share similarities with pottery
of Chinese cultures along the Yellow River. The relics found of the Bronze Age,
however, are distinctive and more elaborate.
Many sophisticated and elaborate handicrafts have been excavated, including gilt
crowns, patterned pottery, pots or ornaments. During the Goryeo period the use of
bronze was advanced.Brass, that is copper with one third zinc, has been a
particularly popular material. The dynasty, however, is most prominently renowned
for its use of celadon ware.
During the Joseon period, popular handicrafts were made of porcelain and decorated
with blue painting. Woodcraft was also advanced during that period. This led to
more sophisticated pieces of furniture, including wardrobes, chests, tables or
drawers.

Ceramics
Main articles: Korean pottery and porcelain and Celadon

A celadon incense burner from the Goryeo Dynasty with Korean kingfisher glaze

The use of earthenware on the Korean peninsula goes back to the Neolithic. The
history of Korean Ceramics is long and includes both Korean pottery a later
development after the traditional use of coils and hammered clay to create early
votive and sculptural artifacts. During the Three Kingdoms period, pottery was
advanced in Silla. The pottery was fired using a deoxidizing flame, which caused the
distinctive blue grey celadon color. The surface was embossed with various
geometrical patterns.
In the Goryeo period jade green celadon ware became more popular. In the 12th
century sophisticated methods of inlaying were invented, allowing more elaborate
decorations in different colours. In Arts of Korea, Evelyn McCune states, "During the
twelfth century, the production of ceramic ware reached its highest refinement.
Several new varieties appeared simultaneously in the quarter of a century, one of
which, the inlaid ware must be considered a Korean invention." [9] Neither the
Chinese nor the Japanese had produced inlaid celadon, which was unique to Goryeo
wares. William Bowyer Honey of the Victoria and Albert Museum of England, who
after World War II wrote, "The best Corean (Korean) wares were not only original,
they are the most gracious and unaffected pottery ever made. They have every
virtue that pottery can have. This Corean pottery, in fact, reached heights hardly
attained even by the Chinese."[10]
White porcelain became popular in the 15th century. It soon overtook celadon ware.
White porcelain was commonly painted or decorated with copper.
During the Imjin wars in the 16th century, Korean potters were brought back
to Japan where they heavily influenced Japanese ceramics. [11] Many Japanese pottery
families today can trace their art and ancestry to these Korean potters whom the
Japanese captured by the thousands during its repeated conquests of the Korean
peninsula.[12][13][14]
In the late Joseon period (late 17th century) blue-and-white porcelain became
popular. Designs were painted in cobalt blue on white porcelain.

Music

Pungmul

There is a genre distinction between folk music and court music. Korean folk music
is varied and complex, but all forms maintain a set of rhythms (called ; Jangdan)
and a loosely defined set of melodic modes. Korean folk musics are Pansori ()
performed by one singer and one drummer. Occasionally, there might be dancers
and narraters. They have been designated an intangible cultural property
in UNESCO's Memory of the world,[15] and Pungmul () performed by drumming,
dancing and singing. Samul Nori is a type of Korean traditional music based on
Pungmul, and Sanjo () that is played without a pause in faster
tempos. Nongak () means "farmers' music".
Korean court music can be traced to the beginning of the Joseon Dynasty in 1392.
Korean court musics include A-ak, Dang-ak and Hyang-ak. Korean music is still
played and sang a lot.

Music
Main article: Music of Korea

Pungmul

There is a genre distinction between folk music and court music. Korean folk music
is varied and complex, but all forms maintain a set of rhythms (called ; Jangdan)
and a loosely defined set of melodic modes. Korean folk musics are Pansori ()
performed by one singer and one drummer. Occasionally, there might be dancers
and narraters. They have been designated an intangible cultural property
in UNESCO's Memory of the world,[15] and Pungmul () performed by drumming,
dancing and singing. Samul Nori is a type of Korean traditional music based on
Pungmul, and Sanjo () that is played without a pause in faster
tempos. Nongak () means "farmers' music".
Korean court music can be traced to the beginning of the Joseon Dynasty in 1392.
Korean court musics include A-ak, Dang-ak and Hyang-ak. Korean music is still
played and sang a lot.

Lifestyle
Homes
Main article: Korean architecture

Traditional house, hanok ()

Traditional farmer's house; Folk Village, Seoul

Korean traditional houses are called Hanok (Hangul:). Sites of residence are
traditionally selected using traditional geomancy. Although geomancy had been a
vital part of Korean culture and Korean Shamanism since prehistoric times,
geomancy was later re-introduced by China during the Three Kingdoms period of
Korea's history.
A house should be built against a hill and face south to receive as much sunlight as
possible. This orientation is still preferred in modern Korea. Geomancy also
influences the shape of the building, the direction it faces and the material it is built
of.
Traditional Korean houses can be structured into an inner wing (, anchae) and
an outer wing (, sarangchae). The individual layout largely depends on the
region and the wealth of the family. Whereas aristocrats used the outer wing for
receptions, poorer people kept cattle in the sarangchae. The wealthier a family, the
larger the house. However, it was forbidden to any family except for the king to
have a residence of more than 99 kan. A kan is the distance between two pillars
used in traditional houses.
The inner wing normally consisted of a living room, a kitchen and a wooden-floored
central hall. More rooms may be attached to this. Poorer farmers would not have
any outer wing. Floor heating (, ondol) has been used in Korea since prehistoric
times. The main building materials are wood, clay, tile, stone, and thatch. Because
wood and clay were the most common materials used in the past not many old
buildings have survived into present times.

Gardens

Hyangwonjeong, a garden inGyeongbokgung, Seoul

The principles of temple gardens and private gardens are the same. Korean
gardening in East Asia is influenced by primarily Korean Shamanism and Korean folk
religion. Shamanism emphasizes nature and mystery, paying great attention to the

details of the layout. In contrast to Japanese and Chinese gardens, which fill a
garden with man made elements, traditionalKorean gardens avoid artificialities,
trying to make a garden "more natural than nature".
The lotus pond is an important feature in the Korean garden. If there is a natural
stream, often a pavilion is built next to it, allowing the pleasure of watching
the water. Terraced flower beds are a common feature in traditional Korean gardens.
The Poseokjeong site near Gyeongju was built in the Silla period. It highlights the
importance of water in traditional Korean gardens. The garden of Poseokjeong
features an abalone-shaped watercourse. During the last days of the Silla kingdom,
the king's guests would sit along the watercourse and chat while wine cups were
floated during banquets.

Clothing
Main article: Hanbok
See also: List of Korean clothing

Hanbok

Hwarot, bridal robe

The traditional dress known as hanbok (, ) (known as joseonot [] in the DPRK) has
been worn since ancient times. The hanbok consists of a shirt (jeogori) and a skirt (chima).
According to social status, Koreans used to dress differently, making clothing an important mark of
social rank. Impressive, but sometimes cumbersome, costumes were worn by the ruling class and
the royal family. These upper classes also used jewellery to distance themselves from the ordinary
people. A traditional item of jewellery for women was a pendant in the shape of certain
elements[which?] of nature which was made of precious gemstones, to which a tassel of silk was
connected.
Common people were often restricted to undyed plain clothes. This everyday dress underwent
relatively few changes during the Joseon period. The basic everyday dress was shared by everyone,
but distinctions were drawn in official and ceremonial clothes.
During the winter people wore cotton-wadded dresses. Fur was also common. Because ordinary
people normally wore pure white undyed materials, the people were sometimes referred to as
the white-clad people.
Hanbok are classified according to their purposes: everyday dress, ceremonial dress and special
dress. Ceremonial dresses are worn on formal occasions, including a child's first birthday (doljanchi),
a wedding or a funeral. Special dresses are made for purposes such as shamans, officials.

Today the hanbok is still worn during formal occasions. The everyday use of the dress, however, has
been lost. However, elderly still dress in hanbok as well as active estates of the remnant of
aristocratic families from the Joseon Dynasty.

Cuisine
Main article: Korean cuisine

Bibimbap

Rice is the staple food of Korea. Having been an almost exclusively agricultural country until
recently, the essential recipes in Korea are shaped by this experience. The main crops in Korea are
rice, barley, beans and Gochujang (hot pepper paste), but many supplementary crops are
used. Fish and other seafood are also important because Korea is a peninsula.
Fermented recipes were also developed in early times, and often characterize traditional Korean
food. These include pickled fish and pickled vegetables. This kind of food provides
essential proteins and vitamins during the winter.
A number of dishes have been developed. These can be divided into ceremonial foods and ritual
foods. Ceremonial foods are used when a child reaches 100 days, at the first birthday, at a wedding
ceremony, and the sixtieth birthday. Ritual foods are used at funerals, at ancestral rites, shaman's
offerings and as temple food.
A distinguishing characteristic of Temple Food is that it does not use the common five strongflavoured ingredients of Korean cuisine--(garlic, spring onion, wild rocambole, leek, and ginger), and
meat.
Kimchi is one of the famous foods of Korea. Kimchi is pickled vegetables which contain vitamins A
and C, thiamine, riboflavin, iron, calcium, carotene, etc. There are many types of kimchi including
cabbage kimchi, spring onion kimchi, cucumber kimchi, radish kimchi, and sesame kimchi.
For ceremonies and rituals rice cakes are vital. The colouring of the food and the ingredients of the
recipes are matched with a balance of yin and yang.
Today, surasang (traditional court cuisine) is available to the whole population. In the past vegetable
dishes were essential, but meat consumption has increased. Traditional dishes
includessambap, bulgogi, sinseollo, kimchi, bibimbap, and gujeolpan.

Tea[edit]
Main article: Korean tea
Originally tea was used for ceremonial purposes or as part of traditional herbal medicine. Some of
teas made of fruits, leaves, seeds or roots are enjoyed. Five tastes of tea are distinguished in Korea:
sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and pungent.

Festivals of the lunar calendar

Main article: Korean calendar

Daeboreum

The traditional Korean calendar was based on the lunisolar calendar.[16] Dates are
calculated from Korea's meridian. Observances and festivals are rooted in Korean
culture. The Korean lunar calendar is divided into 24 turning points (, jeolgi),
each lasting about 15 days. The lunar calendar was the timetable for the agrarian
society in the past, but is vanishing in the modern Korean lifestyle.
The Gregorian calendar was officially adopted in 1895, but traditional holidays
and age reckoning are still based on the old calendar.[16][17] Older generations still
celebrate their birthdays according to the lunar calendar.
The biggest festival in Korea today is Seollal (the traditional Korean New Year). Other
important festivals include Daeboreum (the first full moon), Dano (spring festival),
and Chuseok (harvest festival).
There are also a number of regional festivals, celebrated according to the lunar
calendar. See also Public holidays in North Korea and Public holidays in South Korea.