South Korea, a nation more than 70 years old, is a center for centuries old tradition and modern age advancements. It is a country that is rich with culture and historical landmarks. In fact, South Korea is making its mark on the map as one of the most technologically advanced countries in the world.
South Korean culture has taken the world stage by storm. The global fascination with K-pop and Korean dramas—often called the “Hallyu” wave—showcases the nation’s vibrant entertainment industry and flair for storytelling. At the same time, South Korea dazzles with its ultra-fast internet, innovative gadgets, and the gleaming skylines of its futuristic cities.
South Korean cuisine has also found its way onto tables across the globe. Dishes like kimchi, bulgogi, and bibimbap have become beloved staples, further sharing the country’s flavors and traditions with people everywhere.
South Korean Provinces
South Korea, home to over 50 million people, was officially founded in 1948. Since its inception, South Korea has been one of the fastest growing nations in the world. With it’s technological advancements and achievements, it has become a hot spot for tourists.
South Korea consists of 9 provinces: Gangwon Do, Chungbuk Do, Gyeongbuk Do, Jeollabuk Do, Jeju Do, Gyeonggi Do, Chungnam Do, Gyeongnam Do, and Jeollanam Do. There are 7 metropolitan cities in South Korea. The three most popular cities being: Seoul, Busan, and Incheon.
Seoul, the capital of South Korea is known as one of the most advanced cities in the world. As Korean pop culture grows and is exposed to other nations, the amount of tourists visiting South Korea is readily increasing. Over 80% of the tourists that went to South Korea resided in Seoul.
The Korean Language: Hangul and Regional Dialects
At the heart of South Korea’s vibrant culture is its language. Hangul, the uniquely Korean script, was created in the 15th century under King Sejong’s rule with the goal of making reading and writing accessible to all. Characterized by its scientific design and simplicity, Hangul consists of just 24 basic letters, making it refreshingly straightforward compared to many writing systems in East Asia.
While standard Korean is spoken throughout the country, local dialects—or “satoori”—add color and variety depending on the region. Some of the most well-known include:
- Gyeongsang Dialect: Spoken in cities like Busan and Daegu, it has a distinct rhythm and unique intonation.
- Jeolla Dialect: Heard in the southwest, known for its soft tone and lyrical expressions.
- Jeju Dialect: From Jeju Island, this version of Korean is so distinct it can sometimes sound like a different language altogether!
These regional dialects breathe life into daily conversations, music, and even popular K-dramas, further enriching the tapestry of South Korea’s cultural traditions.
South Korean Culture
South Korean culture was built around Confucian beliefs. Confucianism circles around ancestral beliefs, culture, and nature. All three aspects help to shape Korean society. Hence, South Koreans are very respectful towards their elders, and officials; they have shaped their society around cultural and traditional beliefs.
But what truly sets South Korea apart is its seamless blend of the old and the new. In Seoul, you can stroll past ancient palaces and historic temples nestled among glass skyscrapers and neon-lit boulevards. It’s not uncommon to witness someone dressed in traditional hanbok heading to a temple, while others nearby are on their way to a modern karaoke lounge with friends. This juxtaposition of tradition and innovation defines daily life, where centuries-old customs live alongside cutting-edge fashion, technology, and pop culture.
Due to Confucius teachings, South Koreans are tolerant to all religions. Buddhists, Christians, and even Muslims make up the Korean population. Being fair and kind hearted is part of their culture and beliefs which is why you’ll find most South Koreans to be overwhelmingly helpful and kind. South Koreans, while deeply proud of their heritage, are generally friendly and welcoming to foreigners—always ready to lend a hand without being intrusive. This openness, combined with their strong sense of tradition, makes visitors feel respected and at ease, even as they experience a culture vastly different from their own.
Cultural richness extends beyond manners and beliefs to the vibrant arts scene. Pop music, movies, and television have become global exports, but South Korea still cherishes its traditional art forms—such as calligraphy, pottery, and folk music—which are celebrated at festivals and in community life. This respect for heritage is evident in everyday interactions, as well as in the preservation of historical sites and customs.
Respect is one of the main aspects of Korean culture. Respect towards your elders is absolutely essential. In the same fashion, respect must be given to those with authoritarian positions. Examples of people with authority would include: teachers, doctors, police officers, etc. Without respect, the core values of Korean culture would cease to exist. Indeed, kindness, understanding, good heartedness and courteousness are all products of respect.
Respected Art Forms in South Korea
Korea’s artistic heritage shines just as brightly as its storied traditions. Pottery and ceramics, in particular, are highly regarded throughout the country. For centuries, artisans in regions such as Icheon and Gyeonggi Province have crafted exquisite celadon, porcelain, and stoneware pieces. These timeless works reflect both Korean history and the nation’s appreciation for beauty in everyday life.
In addition to pottery, South Korean folk art forms—like calligraphy and ink painting—also hold a special place in society. These practices often focus on capturing the harmony of nature, a value rooted in Confucian and Buddhist philosophies. Traditional crafts, including intricate textile weaving and the making of “hanbok” (the vibrant national dress), are cherished and proudly displayed during festivals and major life events.
Modern South Korea continues to honor these traditional arts, blending them with contemporary interpretations to create a vibrant, ongoing artistic dialogue across the country.
South Korean Traditions And Holidays
South Koreans follow both the Gregorian calendar as well as the Lunar calendar. This means they have two new years celebrations—one for each calendar. The traditional New Year falls on December 31st, and the Lunar New Year, known as Seollal, occurs on the second new moon following the winter solstice.
During this time, Koreans have a three-day celebration: one day before New Year’s, the day itself, and another the day after. Over these three days, Koreans follow traditional services, including dressing in hanbok, the cultural garb of Korea; eating traditional food; and visiting family members both alive and deceased.
Chuseok: The Korean Harvest Festival
Among the many traditional holidays celebrated in South Korea, Chuseok stands out as one of the most cherished. Often compared to Thanksgiving, Chuseok is a major harvest festival held on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month. During this time, families come together from across the country to honor their ancestors and express gratitude for a bountiful harvest.
A central part of Chuseok involves visiting ancestral hometowns and performing rituals known as charye, where family members pay their respects to those who came before them. These memorial rites are accompanied by an impressive spread of foods, most notably songpyeon—crescent-shaped rice cakes stuffed with sesame seeds, beans, or chestnut paste.
Beyond the family gatherings and feasts, Chuseok is filled with festive activities. Folk games such as ssireum (traditional wrestling) and ganggangsullae (a circle dance performed by women under the full moon) bring communities together. Colorful hanbok, the traditional Korean dress, is often worn, adding further vibrancy to the celebration.
Chuseok is not just a day of rituals and food; it’s a time when the values of respect, family, and gratitude take center stage in Korean society.
Some of South Korea’s most popular celebrations are Valentine’s day, White day, and Black day. However, Valentines day in South Korea differs from that of the western world. In South Korea it is a day where females will give chocolates and gifts to males they admire. Only females participate in Valentine’s day whereas in western society both males and females take part in this celebration.
In return on White day males will give chocolates to females as a return favor. In fact, South Korea being a considerate nation has created a third holiday for those who do not have a significant other to celebrate Valentines or white day with.
Black day is a day for singles to celebrate themselves. They will gather with friends and eat black bean noodles, hence naming the holiday black day. Participants will have an enjoyable time with their friends while celebrating their single status.
South Korea is a nation that has well preserved it’s historical sights. Moreover, with over 30 historical landmarks and sights to visit, South Korea is one of the countries in the world with the largest collection of historical and religious sights to see. Some of the most popular sights include:
- Changdeokgung Palace
Changdeokgung Palace is 600 years of age and Seoul’s crowning jewel. With a vast expansion of gardens to visit, Changdeokgung Palace is one of the most desired places to go to when visiting South Korea. Along with tours of the grounds, there are tours of the gardens and the palace itself.
- Gwanghwamun Gate
Built in 1395, the Gwanghwamun Gate resides in Seoul. Created to serve as the main entrance to the Kyongbuk Palace this 623 year old architectural achievement represents the traditional architectural style of Korea. The gate now contains steel and concrete in order to help it stand tall against harsh weather conditions.
- Jongmyu Shrine
Jongmyu Shrine serves as the ancestral shrine for the Choson Kings and was built in the 16th century. Also residing in Seoul, the Jongmyu Shrine is known for its homage to the past. While there, you will feel as if you have stepped into the past, when life was easy and times were simpler. Visiting the shrine is like a breath of fresh air, it helps one to relax and forget all their worries even if only for a moment.
When visiting Seoul during a limited time trip these historical sights are a must.
South Korean cuisine circles around traditional dishes. Indeed, even modern restaurants in Korea make sure to incorporate traditional dishes into their menu. Some of the traditional dishes of Korea include:
- Kimchi
- Bibimbap
- Bulgogi
- Ddukbokkie
Kimchi is a traditional side dish in Korea. Indeed, consisting of fermented and salted vegetables, Kimchi is often served with every meal. A fun fact about Kimchi is that it is actually very healthy seeing as it is loaded with Vitamins A, B and C. Another factor which makes Kimchi greatly beneficial for ones health is that it contains lactobacilli, a healthy bacteria, commonly found in fermented dishes.
Bibimbap serves as a comfort dish in South Korea. Consisting of cooked rice and beef with an assortment of vegetables, Bibimbap is a wholesome meal. Much like pizza, Bibimbap has a set base but the toppings are completely in your control. This allows Bibimbap to be a versatile dish.
Bulgogi is a dish served mostly during celebratory events such as birthdays, and national holidays. Bulgogi is simply a dish consisting of marinated beef. However, the price of beef is quite high in South Korea which is why it is a dish saved for special occasions.
Ddukbokkie also known as Tteokbokki is spicy rice cake. A very common street food in South Korea, Ddukbokkie consists of cylinder shaped rice cakes and spicy sauce. Sometimes served wish fish cake or sausage Ddukbokkie is a traditional Korean dish that anyone can make at home.
Allow Seoul Cosmetic Surgery To Be Your Tour Guide
At Seoul Cosmetic Surgery we include guided tours and shopping trips as a part of your plan. We want you to experience South Korea to its fullest while on your cosmetic surgery journey. Come with us and take a walk through Changdokgung’s vast gardens or taste the savory street foods scattered across the streets of Seoul. To book a consultation please email us at info@seoulcosmeticsurgery.com. Moreover, we look forward to guiding you through the historic streets of South Korea.