1. Use apps to hail Taxis. 2. Don't talk to guys who refuse to give Kakao talk ( message app ) 3. Don't expect K - Drama love from dating apps and clubs. 4. Always ask first if there's something you can't eat. 5. Be careful of language learning apps. 6. Don't underestimate the level of spicyness ( in food ) 7. Don't mess with an Ajumma. 8. Be careful of cults on the street. 9. Respect the Elders. 10. Be careful of spy cameras. Thanks so much for this list, Dan; I have a friend who intends to go to Korea one day. While she was aware of a few things on the list, I feel she is much more prepared now after watching your video. 'Like'd' and Subscribed. 🐱
agree with everything he said. I lived in Seoul for around 6 months. ps: when a Korean asked you as a FOREIGN about directions in Korea, red flag and from a cult. Walk away right away. korean guys: like he said, forget the kdrama type. Not happening. Could talk a lot about it. Spy cams: big issue that gave me anxiety, really be careful. They can be in hotels, public bathrooms and list goes on, I started to check everytme I went somewhere I could be privately filmed Last thing; never never sit on a seat (subway or bus) thats for elderly or pragnant women, this will be extremely embarrasing for you. Just watch out for the signs on top of the seats
just go with the flow, don't mind other people business than u will be absolutely ok.... I am a introvert I usually don't talk , even see other people or do party , clubing etc etc I never face problem or racism in Seoul (Korea) I know all u guys are not introvert like me but just try to don't mind other people business u will be ok... it's not your country end of the day..
I used to work with an older Korean woman, and a middle age Korean woman when I was younger and they both treated me like I was their own daughter. I quickly became friends with them both and spent A LOT of time with the older of the 2 and she always wanted to take me back to visit her home town. But I really wanted to say how welcoming, and warm, and sweet they were and they were one of the main reasons I appreciate Korean culture so much now. Now, they were SUPER sweet normally, but they would go from 0-100 so fast if someone upset/wronged another person. Absolutely destroy them lol. I strive to be like them. And I miss them so much (I moved from home) Edit: people are still responding to this, so I will just say, my use of "destroy them" was not in a physical sense. They never put her hands on anyone. The older woman had a strong finger point and a very angry tone and would really dig in verbally until you felt pretty bad about what you'd done. She was blunt, straight to the point and honest. Even if she wasn't mad. Some people didn't like it. I did. She treated me no differently, but she treated me well, because we treated each other well. So no, I don't like vengeance, or violence, or anything like that. But I miss being around people who will speak up when they see others mistreated.
@@DEUTSCHLAND.007 lol absolutely not. Most people go from about 0-15, enough energy to reach into their purse or pocket to grab their phone and start recording. Or leaning over to whisper to who's next to them. People don't help other people anymore. And if they do, even then, they have to make sure it's all filmed for their channel.
Lol I feel like what he said about them was true too! I was with my son is South Korea and we were in a little restaurant. Well, I didn't know it was only a spicy one, it was a specialty one. There was a woman with her teen daughter next to us, he only other people there. I asked the server if the food pictured was spicy (in broken Korean) he said no, so I ordered. It set my mouth on fire and my son couldnt eat it. I asked if they had something else so my son could eat but the server said no. Well, the lady next to us wouldn't have it. I don't know what she yelled at him, but he bowed to her, left, and came back in like 3 minutes with soup and rice 😅😅. I bowed to her and said thank you. I wouldn't want to mess with an 아줌마 either 😅😅
Using taxi's were the bain of my existence in Korea! It was one of my biggest complaints about Korea. I loved so many things about the country & my experience was one of the best times in my life so far. Korea promotes tourism but they are not foreigner friendly. I encountered so many rude & disrespectful drivers. From refusing to give me a ride to trying to charge triple the price for a 10 dollar ride. To literally having a Korean cop have to pull over late @ night and stand in the street to hail us a taxi himself & taxis still were not stopping for him, he was heated! I attended Korea University one of the top colleges in Korea & the students who worked @ the desk called & set up a taxi pick up 4 me. When he got there & saw me he refused to let me in. He got into a heated debate with the student who called him. I could tell she threatened to report him if he didn't take me. She was literally pushing me in the taxi & putting my luggage in when he was clearly not having it. I was like yes, these are the circumstances I want to be in, riding in a taxi with a hostile driver. They have an awesome night life but the subway stops running at midnight and taxi's don't want to pick up foreigners sooo u are stranded until 5 am when the subway starts up again because of this I didn't go out too much. As a woman I need to know I can get home safely at any time but especially @ night so this was a big deal 4 me.
why were those drivers so pressed?? 😭💀 im a very shy person so i feel like id want the ground to swallow me if a taxi refused to take me. im sorry you went through that
@@3xitthissid3 they do it was still fairly new & again drivers often times didn't want to pick up foreigners. The 1st time I lived there. We were shopping at stores by the college & had a ton of bags. Korea has steep hills everywhere so this was why it was difficult to walk back to school with a ton of bags. As a shopper you learn really fast not to buy heavy or unnecessary things because chances are you have to carry those things home literally. And you can bet there were will be hills on your way lol. You can only call the kakao taxi if you had a korean phone. When you are new students it takes time to get Korean phones because you have to wait for your temporary ID card to come in. We asked a student who was with his mother if he could help us call a kakao taxi. It shows up, he talks to the driver & they start arguing. In the end the driver refused to take us but the guy & his mom were so kind that instead of giving us an excuse as to why we couldn't take the taxi that showed up for us. They were embarrassed apologized & went even more out of their way by insisting on walking back to their car & giving us a ride. Like who does that?! We refused over & over but the guy was not having it. Not all of my experiences were bad of course. And in the end nothing could ruin my time in Korea. The discrimination & the fact that there are no laws to protect u from it was my biggest complaint. Korea humbled me in so many ways. Everything else was a wonderful experience and why I studied abroad there twice.
@@noodle1885 Aww thank you. The taxi was the worst for me but being refused at an over 21 club for being too old is what took the cake. How are you too old to drink & dance, like my mind is still blown. Korea hurt my pride & knocked me down a few pegs lol. Even with the bad stuff I would go a thousand more times because the good way outweighed the bad. I left my heart in Korea & I constantly think of when I can go back. You're not alone most people when in a new environment are shy too. So we were crazy embarrassed for everyone including ourselves.
I’ve recently found you channel and I enjoy your videos a lot. I’ve always been interested in Korean culture and history and while I think it is great that Korea has become so popular in recent years, I think it is nice that you dispel those romanticized views on Korea (e.g. the Kadrama love moment you mentioned). People forget that Korea is a country like any other with normal people and not KDrama land.
Yeah Korea is just like any other country well good and bad things exist. one thing I hate about thee over romanticized trend is that we get bigger backlash when people ideals don’t match the reality
@@ThizisDanny tnx for the information about your country. I too had romantic fantasies about Korea. From watching my K-DRAMAS and Korean TV stations. I still love the korean culture and music especially. Ciao!!!
It just makes me sad that when girls say they are into Asian guys, they specifically mean tall light skinned fancy K-PopAsian, and not short brown skinned jungle Asian.
@@janegoodall1837 I know right! Especially over here. Some ladies even go as far as praying the K-drama actors don't get married. It really baffles me. Maybe because I'm not a fan of celebrity crushes or maybe because I just have it in my mind that drama isn't "life".
I enjoyed this video a lot. I recently went to Korea, honestly there was a language barrier of course but for me since I’m a outgoing person it honestly wasn’t that bad especially since I know basics of Korean language. I have learned people will talk to just talk to you like to practice their English and I love it cause I am a talker! Also it was good practicing my Korean as well! Cannot wait to go back in October! Will be checking your channel out thanks for the tips!
This is really an eye opener. Thanks for the honest content. I am always scared of going to clubs or using public restroom in any foreign country. I hope I can avoid and take the required precautions when I am traveling to Korea. A personal experience:- Language apps have been a mixed bag. Sometimes we meet sincere language partners.. though many times they want to show the butterflies and end up stalking. The ahjumma comment was spot on! Can very well relate, though my kids are very young. Quick clarification:- I know Korea has a strong drinking culture. How do we refuse a drink; especially to someone senior who may not understand why we don’t drink? Don’t want to show disrespect to anyone.
Unless it’s your boss a simple “No I don’t drink” would be fine! Sometimes in toxic work settings they make you drink but in daily lives no one can really force you to drink :) So nothing to worry about
I never heard about Korea beying drinking country before, I am from alcohol nation (Czech) and refuse a drink can be really hard here, everyone expect from you that you will drink all the time and when you don't want to drink, you are weird and you have no friends. 😀
@@Pidalin I agree that some countries have a strong drinking culture. I love traveling and realized the world was our oyster. I come from a traditional culture where alcohol, smoking and drugs were a complete no no.. I moved to the US fifteen years ago where drinking was a social norm. Similarly Korea has a strong drinking culture and I realized it has deep roots embedded within social and cultural norms. I am lucky to have tons of friends on both spectrum and we respect each other’s boundaries. Sometimes I am the only one with a virgin pina colada but having the most entertaining conversation with a bunch of beer and soju drinking friends. I am their safe driver and ride to home 😂. True friends are always non judgemental.
@@Pidalin I come from a alcohol culture nations too (serbian and slovak which both drink all the time). At some point I was on meds that made me completely despise the smell of alcohol. Its when I realized the biggest problem was finding what to drink when you hang out or go out with friends lmao. Its a rare sight to find virgin cocktails and such so thats the first hurdle, finding what to drink instead that you wont get sick of. Second, I find people get over it pretty fast unless they have their own reasons to get you to drink. First I think a lot of people thought I couldnt have fun without alcohol and that I would be bored or boring if i was the only one not drinking. This happens when you start refusing and they might push you to drink more during this time, it comes from misguided worry and it passes soon. That got debunked pretty fast. When you meet new people theyll give you an unsure look, like are you gonna be a prude, give them lectures about drinking, etc. but they figure it out pretty fast when youre having a good time and leave you be. From my experience the 2 types of people that will really push you to drink are people that really just want you to drink so they dont feel bad about drinking by themselves. So they try to get others to drink so they dont feel bad or so they have an excuse to drink. Like I remember I actually yelled at a friend that pushed alcohol on people cause he was drinking a lot at the time, and that night the rest of us werent drinking (work+needed to drive home) so he felt bad about being the only one wanting to drink so he kept pushing others to join him. And the people that have an interest in getting you drunk and sloppy, and lets say they dont have good intentions. I say this cause I know it can feel impossible when something is so ingrained in the culture and socializing, but people tend to stop noticing pretty fast in reality.
Very nice insight into foreigners issues. I'm surprised by how accurate and thoughtful it is! I lived a few years in Korea and while the experience might be different for Koreans and some other foreigners, I agree with all. Scammer taxi drivers and cults were a pain, but once you know, it handlable. As for spy cams... download the apps and check around, no other choice sadly
”If someone says you have a good aura…WALK AWAY”😂😂 sounds hilarious out of context. I’ve heard experiences that some restaurants have automatically made the food less spicy if they saw it’s for a foreigner. I think that’s really sweet and thoughtful and I’m sure I would really appreciate it if that happened to me😆 though I would probably start boasting about how good I am with spicy food not knowing the truth😂
No it wasn't nice. I love spicy and when I was living in Korea I had to beg for spicy because they would insist that I couldn't handle it. I know what I like I am a grown woman.
Respect to those that can handle that level of spice, but I cannot do it. I like some spice if it's also flavorful, but overly spicy for no reason makes no sense to me. Kudos!
Okay so I’m just gonna put my mini experience here. Lemme tell you guys I have an making tolerance for spicy food to the point where I just adore spiciness. But just because you have a good tolerance doesn’t mean your stomach does! You could literally destroy your stomach and/or rectem
Yeah. Everything you said is true. I've got Korean friends. So they told me everything I should know about South Korea. From people, dating, friendship etc. But most of my Korean friends we communicate through Kakaotalk. So lucky having Korean friends who are very kind and respectful. No racisms.
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Thanks So Much Mr Dan Of South Korea Republic🇰🇷For Your Information about Being A Foreigner In Korea 🇰🇷🤗 Love And Respect From Malaysia 🇲🇾😁 The Relations Between Our Country Are So Closed 🇲🇾💜🇰🇷Good Luck To Your Country Because I Heard That What Happened Today Is Presidential Election😌 #STAYSAFE #BTSFANS
I have a question though, what if you are older and unsure of how old the person is? I ask because I know in certain situations you act differently, such as if you go out with others and drink if they are older you look away to drink. If you’re the elder you normally pay and they are older you serve them, what do you do if you’re not sure??
@@shayshay7524 acting and talking in the polite form applies to people you meet for the first time and you are not close to regardless of age :) but situations like who pays for things.. it depends. if it’s a situation when you are with friends or someone close, oldest would try to pay but if it’s work related or school or whatever and you don’t know each other well including age, probably will share the bill or someone who is hosting will buy
Thank you for your videos, i just find your channel and i really like your work. I wanna spend some time i Korea in the future, and i houpe, your channel could help me to prepare myself for it. O:)
When I was teaching in China about 20 years ago, I was in my 60s, and I have to say I really appreciated the respect that I received because of my age. My students would often ask for advice, which is something a young person in the US would never do.
This relates to the Confucian 5-relations (ruler and subject, father and son, elder brother and younger, husband and wife, peers). It’s just always been a part of local philosophy-older people know more, and so we need respect for them or we can’t transfer the knowledge. America particularly has a problem with this since they value the opposite, flat hierarchy and clueless youth!
@@Sol-In-Seoul Confucianism also promotes toxic masculinity and puts women down. There is no reason that the father and son are more valuable in opinion or knowledge than the wife or daughter. A teacher or expert regardless of age/gender has more to say on any subject because they are educated and have experience in that field. Also respect is mandated in my book to everyone regardless of age or gender until they do something (usually treat someone like garbage, scam or harm another) that shows they aren't worthy of it from me. The idea that age brings wisdom universally is just wrong. However, the idea that everyone has value regardless of age is true. People from all different walks of life, ages and genders can all have valuable information, experience and things to share. I'm sick of ageism and it seems to just repeat with generations the more divided they are. I've met 13 year olds who are more mature and knowledgeable than people in my age group (which could easily explained by each new generation being more educated overall, especially in access to information). And I've met older individuals who have a lot to offer, especially when it comes to learning history, which is incredibly valuable. But I've also met arrogant, clueless and bitter people in both age ranges who think the world revolves or should revolve around them. Casting anyone off or thinking less of them because of age is just discrimination. Mindset matters a lot more than anything else about a person.
This was really helpful, thank you. I was wondering: Do non-Korean speaking women need to be careful of roofies at bars? Are Airbnb's safer in terms of hidden cameras (shudder)? This next question isn't safety related, but since you speak both languages, would you please recommend a bookstore with Korean poetry that is well translated into English? There seems to be a lot of beautiful poetry, but it always hinges on translation skills for a non-speaker to feel the senses conveyed. Would appreciate any suggestions you can share.
Dear Dan, thank you for this well thought out and helpful vlog. All cultures have their no nos and it good to be aware of what is ok and what is not. I have found that most of the Korean young people are very polite and reserved and elders even more so. I always felt uncomfortable when first time meeting a Korean student or professor they would bow or bow their head. I know that is a sign of respect but still I was always polite in my greetings just uncomfortable. I chuckled about Korean moms cuz my mom was the same way and now that I'm a mom, grandmother I'm the same way..I can be a momma bear 🤡 I really enjoy your vlogs. Thank you again for sharing. Safe travels and Godspeed. Tx🇺🇲
I understand it can be uncomfortable but just in our culture :) those people are well behaved and have learned their manners well! Some young people these days don’t know how to respect older people .. and sadly same can be said for some elders also 🥲
@@ThizisDannyIn Korea they have prejudice or racist attitude against people of Indian origin. 1. In Korea they will not given INDIAN tourists entry into pubs and night life places based on their nationality. Some pubs have signs that Indian and Pakistani people are not allowed inside. Bouncers in the night clubs misbehaved or denied entry to Indians based on their nationality or skin color. This makes Korea a very racist country. 2. Korean people won't rent their homes to indian people this creates issues to people who are studying or working in Korea. 3. Many Korean people dislike Indians due to their dark or dusky skin color. 4. Some Koreans say Indians are smelly others say their foods are smelly.. This is another kind of racist attitude when 70% Indian are vegetarians. 5. Some Koreans mock Indians by saying Indian culture is bad due to more rapes in India.. So here we like to highlight the gross rape per million is lowest in India compared to many developed nations like USA and most Muslim countries. Recently a Korean you tuber visited INDIA and was being harassed by Muslim boys, she was rescued by hindu boys. In india 79% of the rapes and crimes are conducted by illegal immigrants from Pakistan and Bangladesh who come inside India thru our porous borders. As you know Muslims hate hindus they come to india to create violence against hindus. Indian and British and UAE jails are filled with disproportionate number of Muslims this is because Muslims are prone to crimes. In foreign countries when Pakistani Muslims go to night clubs they pose themselves as INDIAN and misbehave or don't pay this creates bad impression about Indians so we would recommend before Korean make racism against INDIAN people they should ensure the people who did bad things in their country are Indian or Pakistanis and were they Muslim or hindu.. This will help you to understand the problem better.. Hindus of india seldom make problems or engage criminal acts, but Muslims are prone to violence, criminal acts and rapes. So Koreans must know about these things. In India it is said millions of Pakistani and Bangladeshi citizens are living illegally and they are engaged in criminal acts and rapes, when you visit INDIA be aware of this. 6. There is an organized effort in global media across the world to show Indians and Hindus in bad light.. This is primarily happened due to journalist and media are bribed by Chinese and oil rich Muslims.. You may have recently heard about the qatar gate scandals in European union.. This is now becoming obvious that China CCP and rich Muslim nation funding is targets Hindus and Indians they bribe journalists and media to mock Hindus and India, show them in bad light. This is happening across the world news papers and media.. This is not coincidence but a planned and organized efforts to persecute the indians globally. If this can happen to you due to our religion this can happen to you tomorrow. 7. Korean people should particularly know our history.. Indian hindu civilization and Koreans share a good history.. It is said most Koreans are having Indian dna due to Korean king married INDIAN queen in the past.. This is also why many many Korean language words are same as in Tamil, a regional Indian language.. Many many Korean foods are inspired or same as INDIAN Tamil foods.. Did you know that Tamil and Sanskrit are one of the oldest languages.. India and Korean govt have good relationships, do not spoil our relationship due to corruption in global media. Judge people by personal experience not based on media. Don't confuse INDIAN people with Pakistanis and Muslims. 8. Indian people love Koreans and watch lot of Korean movies and songs but your hatred and racism can create negative image of Korea in long run.. It is time to take note of all the points mentioned above.. The Chinese and Pakistani don't want INDIA to purchase Korean tanks they attack us with fake news to divide us, don't let them impact your vision about india and understand the conspiracy of china and Pakistanis. 9. Let us not forget how 20 Pakistani Muslims tapped raped 1600 non Muslim girls in just one city of UK is very famous.. In Rotherham UK 1600 non-muslim girls were raped due to their religion was hated by the Pakistani Muslims.
8:20 I love the Tandem app! I have this really cool Korean friend, we've been friends for over two years! We speak Korean together and text on other apps outside of Tandem. I have met many great people on this app, not just for Korean language learning, but also French, Chinese, Thai, whatever language really! People have also approached me and sent me a message to know more about my language, and I think in general the app is really cool and fun! I get many messages from Chinese people loving my blonde hair or loving the fact that I'm from Denmark
Danny this is an excellent video! My niece from Hawai’i just moved to Korea for university exchange program. I sent her link to your video to watch. Mahalo (thank you). Please continue making videos. Your English is perfect and very nice to listen to.
Incredibly important info you've shared here. Especially for people who haven't traveled internationally. Been many years for me but I was military so I was taught the proper etiquette in every country we visited. Japan and Korea were beautiful btw.
Hello, I am from Trinidad & Tobago 🇹🇹 , I love traveling, these tips for traveling to Korea are very thoughtful. Have had to deal with the technology in different countries and I must say I am very glad for the information you have provided. Thanks so much.
Thank-you dan for the video my friend had a difficult time in south Korea they couldn't get a ride or anything like that she was being watched as well and followed I feel bad for her I told her to be careful when walking the streets of South Korea I'm really scared for her she needs to be aware of what is going on around her next time she goes to South Korea I'm going with her I'm tired of her thinking it's a kdrama romance I keep telling her it's not real I'm getting tired of having to tell her about these red flags it's ridiculous she can't even get herself together and is always chasing these guys around in south Korea 🤦♀️I'm getting fed up of having to deal with this nonsense anyways its ridiculous and childish
This is very informative Dan, thank you. When traveling to any country, it's always good to do some research. I honestly like the respectful factor of Korea, it's much like South-Africa, without the bowing. We're also quite accustomed to giving things or receiving them with both hands, because that is a custom our black people practice. White people are a bit more Westernised, so respect is very important, but we tend to be a little bit more casual with addressing people. You call an older person aunty and uncle whether they are your family or not. But it's more amongs the Afrikaans people, a sister language from Dutch. The British English custom doesn't do that much, they call you on your first name, so you learn to adapt and accept people for their individual values and standards. To an extent it's a bit of a cultural clash at times. For instance, you will absolutely never call your mother you (jy and jou) if you are Afrikaans. You'll be dead. It's means saying Mamma a 100 times a day. I tend to speak more formally than most, because my mom was a school teacher and manners is everything. 😆 So, my mother is Afrikaans and my father is English, I've adapted by speaking their respective languages with them. It's the safest. Jip, middle aged Mammas all over the world are scary, we're mostly overprotective creatures, but in SA, being polite and well mannered is the task looked up to, to the older mom's, they set the standards. 🙏🌻 Thanks for sharing. The spy camera thing is upsetting. My goodness! If ever my kids intend to travel, I can give them advice. 💐💐💐
I have to disagree, South African parents these days have slacken when it comes to manners, respect and morals values. "You'll be dead" - Agree 100%. Once I wasn't thinking what I was saying, words just came out of my mouth and I just back-chat my mother. Eish!! That was when my mother told, she once back-chat her grandmother, at first nothing happened... well so she thought. My great grandmother waited for the right opportunity patiently. Those elder people had a lot of patience and a lot of time on their hands. The right opportunity was when my mother least expected anything when she went to the bathroom to wash up... surprise surprise she received a wet washcloth Beating!! Kids these days will faint and think or hope they are dead. "Klaar gepraat". I would also find the spy camera or any spy method upsetting for me it is disrespectful putting your nose in my business. I would say these days kids are trained to be adults and not kids. There was a time that manners and respect was wore like badge of honor. Lekker dag.
My friends and I are actually coming to Korea this fall 😊 we plan on going to Seoul, Busan and Gyeongju. I’m so happy that Korea reopens for travelers again in April 2022! Thank you for your video! ☺️
Thank you so much for covering this topic! Loved it! ❤ I find other cultures so fascinating so it was wonderful to get some insight into certain parts of Korean culture that aren't really considered when traveling outside of ones own country. I can't wait to visit some day The spy cameras are also a problem here in Australia too..yuck! It's pretty well known here to try and avoid certain public restrooms and motels in certain districts.
Spy cams are awful. Idk what’s wrong with people and what’s worse and something I really can’t understand is why do you want to see someone in the toilet in the first place.. it’s so gross 🤢
@@ThizisDanny There's some very strange people out there, I couldn't think of seeing anything worse then someone using the toilet let alone have recordings of it. Gross.
I wished I found Dan earlier than 2 years ago. I travelled to Jeju Island its beautiful safe lovely food and nice people I had no problems at all.. Plus I have visited the Disney Land arranged by the Tour Group… had many good Korean foods
My friend and I are elders and hoping to visit Korea in a couple of years. I'm slowly learning Korean (565 day streak so far 😊) and loving it. Thank you so much for such an informative and helpful video. I really enjoy your channel. 고맙습니다
I've learned a lot from this video, about the kakao talk; public wifi/VPN. i visited Korea in 2019, stayed at Toyoko hotel inn, gangnam for 4 days. enjoyed my stay, the people were friendly. When you go to a shopping mall it was difficult to communicate but we used a language translate app to communicate. Planning on visiting again in the future
4 & 6) Luckily, I'm not allergic to any food. That being said, I am kind of picky and can't eat spicy food, so I am glad that you mentioned the options for checking ingredients. Also, I can really relate to the topic of someone saying "a little bit spicy" and then I take a bite and am instantly trying to gulp down milk. With my family, I got in the habit of saying something like "you're level of spicy or my level of spicy"... reminding them that even normal pepper is bad to me.
I'm the same as far as *spiciness goes. I can't have anything to do with spicy food. As a child I ate anything and everything being raised in a Asian fashion. Hawaii has a majority of influx of Asian food and cuisine and people too. We usually eat a mix of food. We call it a *mixed plate.
Korean spicy is on a completely different level though. I had an American friend (we worked together in a hostel in Seoul many years back) who loved spicy food and was very strong when it came to handling it. We all went out for lunch to have dumpling soup one day and he decided that he was going to try the spiciest thing on the menu. Mind you, this dish was actually very clearly marked as extremely spicy and had warnings on it. Even the staff warned him when he ordered it. He insisted though. Let's just say that it was so spicy that even I started tearing up just from sitting next to him at the table. Long story short; he finished the bowl, but he was a very miserable guy while eating it, haha. As for me, I'm like you; I can't handle hot food. That said, the longer you stay in Korea and the more Korean food you eat, the better your tolerance becomes. I'm a lot more tolerant to spicy food now than I was before going to Korea.
As for an Asian like me, I overestimated the spiciness level. Ahjumma was shocked I could eat the ojingeobokkeum so easily and not wincing and said she herself couldn’t eat that spicy dish. My spiciness tolerance is just through the roof. Also, yes. Most korean guys who talk to you and suddenly want to meet, in hotels? That’s a red flag. I even gave a long winded advice to one to live his life honestly 😅
This man straight on be guiding us in all folds. Shout out to you, sir!! I haven't met an influencer who is concerned with safety of his users. Thank you ✨💗
I've lived an accumulated two years in Korea. In 2015 for 6 months. Another 6 months in 2017. And just recently a full 13 months working in Korea in 2021-22. There's so much I've experienced, especially as a Hispanic, plus size girl as opposed to my friends who were also foreigners. Many of these issues he talked about arose between myself or my foreign friends. Great video!
@cacabaka2456 Yeah! I can send you an email or a message on insta with my experiences and some tips based on what you'll be doing? But things can always differ though.
This video is definitely helpful because I’m coming to Korea this summer. I scheduled my trip as a time off after my graduation without much thought, which was bad on my part. Since scheduling it though I have been researching a lot more and trying to learn Korean, but the apps you mentioned will be really helpful I’m sure! Thanks for the video!
Hello Dan!! Thank you so much for being realistic and honest about Korea. I follow and watch the TH-camr Rachel Kim (She's Korean and lives in South Korea as well) and she has said that Koreans tend to be defensive about Korea, so I just appreciate you being honest about life in Korea. I will definitely keep in mind what you talked about if I visit South Korea!! Also, have you done a Korean fashion video? Whenever I watch anything and I mean ANYTHING that has to do with a Korean person in that content, they are always so well dressed and on point when it comes to style and fashion. Plus, Korean fashion lines up with my personal style!! I truly enjoy watching your videos and I'll be looking for that video on Korean fashion!
Thank you so much as I was contemplating on visiting Korea. Gosh there are a lot of dont’s I see. But the scariest is the hidden cameras part. I’m from Malaysia and basically we are a fun loving country and don’t have a lot of rules. Any elderly person over here we address them as Uncle or Aunty even if they aren’t our aunties or uncles. It’s just politest way we address the elders over here regardless of race as you may know we are a multi racial country. You are amazing always giving great content thank you again.
@@shakunmarie Assalam alekum my sis but in Islam we have to have a Muslim name becz the non muslims they dont have a Muslim name Well came Salam from germany
Thank you, these are helpful! I’m planning on traveling around Korea in the next couple of years, and these were most of my fears! Especially hidden cameras. I don’t want to stay in motels or Airbnb because it seems riskier in that regard.
These are such good tips for me and my daughter when we visit Korea (hopefully next year). Thanks for the language tips. I am learning Korean but when to use what is so confusing and this helped so that I can just focus on the general formality phrases and not try to remember all of the differences. Thanks again for great content.
I visited Korea about 6 years ago, and I had no problems. I am older--a retired teacher--but I traveled from Seoul to Busan to Jeju and back to Seoul, both by train and flying. I was treated wonderfully by everyone without exception. Once at the train station outside of Busan, my cellphone battery was dead, and I could not contact the hotel that I would be late. A policeman who wasn't sure of English, walked away and returned with a civilian who spoke English and loaned me his cell to contact the hotel. Next, they called a taxi and made sure that I got in with my luggage. Then, I had the fastest ride of my life straight to the hotel in Busan. On Jeju, I also had a good taxi driver. One thing I learned: the cabs are in line, and one should take the first one first. Thank you for your information. Perhaps for younger people who get involved with dating, the warnings are important. I traveled alone, walked around Seoul in the evenings to the theater for concerts, and not once did I feel threatened or in danger.
Your video makes me want to go to Korea even more. What I've taken from this video is looking at Koreans as human beings and not equating them with K pop or K drama characters. I've been subscribing to Korean TH-cam channels that into the same things as me such as camping, hiking, and cycling.
Dan, thank you for this vlog. OMG, everything is so helpful. I was there a few years ago, and I was so lost and always felt like a step behind because I was finding out cultural and etiquette gestures after the fact. The good thing was I stayed in the tourist spots and it was soooo wonderful. After your vlog, I got a couple of apps on my phone because I want to venture of a bit this time. Take care. -S
I laughed when you said 'red flag if they don't use KaKao'. I heard some stories from some of my friends. LINE is the main app for the people who live in Taiwan. I also laughed at the Ajima (sorry if I got the spelling wrong) the Cantonese name for the married woman is See Lai (we do the same thing too: we don't argue, we just have to walk away - sometimes can spot them from a mile away because of their style😝😉). Thank you for all your advice! Really enjoy your videos. Looking forward to your next one.
I was looking for some TH-cam channels to improve my english, and finally i found you ! I love your voice, you speak clear and calm, that is it what i was looking for ! So I am really really happy. I also watch a lot of kdramas or listen to kpop music, And i know that in real live for sure not everything is that magical like they shows, so i am grateful that you are talking about how real korea looks, what to expect and be carefull about. I am definitely staying with you ! Thank you for your work and i wish you the best !
Thank you Dan.. very insightful 👏.. I was supposed to have done 5 weeks Asian tour Vietnam South Korea and Japan last year but was cancelled 😢 and again cancelled this year 😢..but this gives me more time to learn more basic Korean as we are staying longer there.. I'm lucky I have friends in all 3 countries to help guide us and looking forward to a mixed bag of cultures next year .. keep safe and keep making g us aware xx
Hi Dan, I just found your channel and I'm moving to Seoul from Melbourne Australia this November/December. So I'm always curious about these type of videos. Several Korean ladies told me about the spy cameras and their experiences which creeped me out a bit. I'm glad to see you also share this information. Personally one of the first things I learnt was to use polite speech always and now to elders and also to use two hands. I do these gestures etc in my own country with Korean people/ elders. I enjoy your videos. Good information and explained clearly. Thankyou.
Whenever you said Aura it's remind me park seo joon 😂 I think in korea which people compliment on you that you have good Aura you have to stay away from them and dont follow them to certain places and if you met a person like park seo joon of ( Secretary kim ) you can trust on them 😂😂 because they never ever compliment on yours Aura lol 😂
Because I won't be able to leave my country to visit Korea (yes, I'm learning Korean but it's for fun and a brilliant brain jogging) I enjoy to get to know your country a bit through your or other eyes. It is very different to Germany and I love tlo learn new things...I freaked out as I saw a video where they bought already peeled onions!! 🤯 That is exactly what we (I) need here in Germany (in my favorite supermarket)! 😍😍😍 So thank you for bringing your country closer to me, with all its facets...and that with the KDrama love, I already suspected that the Korean film industry was lying to us.😔🤭
I’ve been a little nervous about going this fall (especially since I’m African lol), but this eases it. And that info about Line instead of Cacou (I don’t know how to spell it, sorry) is interesting because I’ve tried to meet people overseas on an app ahead of time, and a lot of them have asked if I had line. Thank you! I’m saving this video
Interesting, will have to remember these if I get to visit to Korea. I actually really like how respectful Koreans are to their elders, it's nice. I'm currently taking a Korean course and learning the different informal and formal phrases. Hopefully I can remember to use the right ones when it comes to meeting new people, I'll be scared of getting it wrong though 😅
As someone who has SEVERE seafood allergies, I have a legit fear of not being able to actually EAT while visiting. I don't know if the food industry is regulated as strict as it is here in the US. For instance, raw meats have their own counter/space, and veggies/fruit have their own. And between different meats, the counter is always disinfected to prevent cross contamination. I'm scared of ordering something like fried chicken and sweet potatoes, and the chef prepares fish/shellfish on the same counter. Can you offer any insight to food prep or guidelines that food handlers in Korea must follow for health and safety of their customers?
You literally let the restaurant manager know you hv a severe allergy - & make sure you've made it clear; do you keep an epipen with you - is that the level of severity?! That's what I've always done. Am pretty sure food standards are just as high, or higher - S Korea is a very developed country - it's not like going to such as even Cambodia or Vietnam, espc not in say, Seoul🙏💜
Many restaurants specialize. So often if you don’t go to a seafood restaurant, you will be fine. Many restaurants have one or two menu items with different options.
Thanks dan this helps a lot coz I am really interested in korea culture a lot and this helps me to know more before I travel to Korea Once again thank you ssssoooooo much for making this video
That was so informative. Thanks Dan! I understand the respect culture, we also have it in my country and language. The spy camera thing is very disturbing and it can easily trigger paranoia in some people.
Thanks for your videos, I just find your channel. And Its really interesting for one that lives in Denmark to get an insight into another cultur. And i will visit Korea in the future :)
Thank you Danny, very good advice, I do plan on visiting Korea soon - once restrictions for Covid are lifted, and this information is very helpful. I enjoy learning different ways of culture. Every country is so different! I also like you throwing in Korean words for us to learn, hope you continue with that, adds an extra depth to video😋 also helps with studying the language. What are some places you would recommend for visitors to see? Thanks again for sharing some of your time with us again, it’s appreciated!
Thank you again for your content 🙏🏼 I’ve been looking for a long time to find useful information for my first visit there since I’ll be solo. I feel weird looking up “dating” in Korea as a way to prepare for a trip sometimes but I have heard so many rumors about needing to “watch out” if you’re in another country for scams and such. I appreciate your direct answers and advice!
Interesting topic and thanks for sharing! Been to South Korea for Holiday several times with friends. Mostly enjoyable experiences! I know basic korean conversation so i got around places purely by subway, buses or walk with the help of naver map. The only thing i did not get to try was to order food through delivery apps because i didnt have a korean local number to do so. Totally agreed on the Spiciness level! I asked for mild….but it was hella spicy and i almost died. Oh ya danny, just curious- when i was in korea, we encountered random ladies at different occasions asking us for directions (at bus station or subway station), and they said this to us “Unnie, is this bus or train going to xxxx place” ? I was so puzzled by this because they look like they are in their 50s while we are just 20s? Or this is how they address people when they are asking for directions?
Yes Unnie can also be used as an expression to call women in their 20s or 30s. it’s especially more common when those people are working in a shop then it’s a familiar way of calling them, instead of calling them Miss which could sound a little to formal:) Just like the term Aunty (이모) in Korea is used for women working at restaurants when they aren’t really our Aunties
Good Danny, the video is exhaustive, I liked it a lot, when you go to a foreign country it is always better to inform yourself first about the habits, customs, traditions so as not to run into situations that are also dangerous, every country has its sides dark, its ghosts, and you have explained them very well. Even when you talk about language dating apps, it's nice to talk to people from other countries, but I'm very skeptical about these apps, they seem ambiguous to me, better not trust them. The topic on allergies is also interesting, I have a friend who is allergic to garlic, if she eats it, her lips, eyes swell and she goes into anaphylactic shock, she risks dying she swells her throat and suffocates, given the amount of garlic you use in Korea is probably not the right country for you. You made a very useful video, with great content.
Thank you Dan! This is very useful! I am getting more excited about traveling to South Korea next year. I saw this morning that the quarantine will be lifted April 1st for those who are totally vaccinated. So that is a good thing!
Hi, I am new to the channel and I find it very entertaining. I am planning to come and teach English as a foreign language in your country. So I do a lot of research on South Korea. I even have kakoatalk and other apps to make connections with people. I am also learning Korean but I'm a bit lazy with that. I have a fear of being alone in a crowd with strangers. I'm not sure how I'm going to deal with that. It will be the first time being on my own and away from family and friends. Thank you for your channel though and being honest about things. I love Korean culture, the respectful mannerisms, exquisite food and beautiful country. That is what attracted me to your country and moving there will be a scary move but I'm totally up for it...
This wasn't the only video I've watched that tackles about red flags in SK but still thanks for the heads up. I have never been in your country, just my father coz he used to work there. I only liked K love stories through webtoon but I'm aware that there are still something beyond it in real life. Like every country in the world has its own bad side. Nice topic! 👍😊
I'm planning a trip to Korea next year and I randomly had this video recommended to me, I'm glad I clicked and watched 😊 Thank you for the information!
와... 영어를 잘합니다 !!! You are the first Korean person I know who speaks English with pretty much no Korean slang and in proper English structure !!!! Awesome !!
Dan, it seems that almost all the videos are exclusively about eating food. I believethere is so much more to see in south Korea than eating. Maybe I'm one of the only people out here wanting more than just the food - which is great, but I sincerely believe there is so much more to see. YES, I want to visit Korea, mostly inspired by a old friend and I want to honor her. Thanks so much for your many videos about Korea. william
Thank you for your honest take on important cultural points to consider while visiting Korea, from the perspective of someone who is new to the place and people!
Your content was good and actually I did learn a few things that I didn’t know but I’ve already been to South Korea and I had a wonderful time and I’ll be going back very soon. I met many nice people over there and now I have a lot of Korean sisters and brothers me and my daughter decided to get baptized while we were in South Korea and I am still in touch with many of the people in my sisters and brothers that I now have over there and we miss each other a lot. I have always enjoyed learning about different cultures and meeting different people and their way of life. It doesn’t matter what country you go to what state you always have to be careful because they’re always creeps perverts murderers just strange people everywhere but I do like the information that you shared and I agree with you that when a Korean man ask you to contact them online or WhatsApp or hangouts or whatever these different apps are don’t take them seriously and I have learned the hard way with that losing a lot of money and having my feelings hurt just to say the least. I was just taking a drive and listening to my Korean music and your site popped up so I decided to look at a few of your videos and now I subscribed so I just want to say keep up the good work.
hi dan, this was a super informative video! i think in general if you’re from an Asian country, a lot of the cultural norms/practises are pretty similar like respect, honorifics, even spice levels lol. i was supposed to visit Seoul (+ Tokyo as well) with my friend in 2020 but obviously corona happened and we haven’t been able to reschedule it since ☹️ the spy cameras were a big concern to us because it’s so scary to think that your privacy can just be invaded like that when it’s so hard to spot. I’ve been learning Korean for a few years, I’d say I’m intermediate so I think I’d be okay getting around etc but when I was planning our trip I was pretty confused about transport? mainly public transport within Seoul and also ktx to places like busan, would that be something you’d be interested in making a video about maybe? that would be super helpful ☺️ hope you’re doing well :)
Greetings Dan, ur blog was great and very informative, I wanted to visit several Asian country’s when I retired this was very interesting and very good, Thanks 🙏
I came across your channel by accident today and checked out a fair few of your videos. I'm currently debating whether to finish up my masters in IELTS (for those who don't know it is basically teaching english to people foreign to the english language) and one of the programs was to work in South Korea. I've been learning to speak Korean as well as hangul but was completely unaware of Korea itself as a country. Thank you for posting content that is helpful to travellers, students, visitors and workers thinking of heading to South Korea. I am a really naieve and sometime gullible person lol so knowing these things is more helpful that you may ever know haha!! Keep up the good work, it is very appreciated!!
Found your channel by mistake. But glad I did. Never thought about ever visiting but the way you break things down to help new visitors out I might just check South Korea out.
So do you not run up to your girl friend with an umbrella and cover her head. Lol just kidding. K dramas are very romantic except for the kiss. They put their face together and don’t move. There is one thing that I found strange in a lot of the Kdramas. They always sleep in their clothes? Enjoyed your video
I used to think they were romantic too until i realised who i am now, if someone brough me umbrella, i would look at them lime they have gone mad cos i was enjoying the rain on my face or if someone held my hands, i would pull it away cos social distancing is my thing before it became a thing or me falling? I catch myself and look at his hands like, what were u trying to achieve? Ya ever since i realised i have changed, ive been palm facing to kdramas
Hi Dan, thank you very much about the helpfull informations. I would like to ask you something. I heard a lot of rumors from korea about beautystandart/lookisim. Did you already do a video about it? I've been shocked when I heard that people who are not beautyfull or skinny enough are treated bad/ get bullied. Is it true?
Danny I have a question 🙋🏻♀️ How accessible is South Korea for wheelchair users? I’m doing physical therapy and I’m not 100% sure I can walk again yet so I most likely have to be prepared for my wheelchair. I heard from another video it’s not so I’m curious now as that would affect my future plans. Thanks for the food allergies heads up! I definitely need to look out for that. Dairy and gluten trigger my immune system to attack my thyroid so I have to be that annoying customer at all the restaurants. The Ajummas warning surprised me. All the ones I hung out with in my classes were the sweetest 🥺 They would always feed me snacks lol and one even held my hand when I said something that made her emotional which I’m not gonna lie freaked me out because I’m not used to Asians being touchy. But now I’m going to remember not to upset them 😅 I just can’t imagine them upset
@@AlejandraXio Since May 2021 when I was finally able to be transferred from a bed after a near fatal car accident. I am learning to walk again, but it's a slow process and I have had a total of 15 surgeries so far since 2/16/21
This is such a helpful video! Thanks so much for making it. I will definitely make note of these things before I come to Korea and as I continue to learn Korean. Hope you are feeling better! 😀
I am proud of Korea's respect just like Africa. Second your mom is like me when I'm protecting my kids. Sometimes I'm like that. . And thank you so much I enjoy your video.
Hey Danny, you really blew mind!🤯 But thank you for the information. It will definitely come in handy. I am going to try speaking Korean to some of my elderly customers on my mail route. 👌🏼😊
'Be careful in Korea' was very interesting. You shared good tips on 'Kakao' and 'Papago' - will check what I can find on the cultural manners . Thank you Dan
Lovely advice. I’m a pink haired 51 year old married mum. I’m dying to travel around Korea. I’m gonna stick out like a sore thumb lol. In England, especially at night it’s not safe for women on their own. I have noticed a lot of women my age and older who travel alone often hire a guide to keep them company and take them to the best spots. But ladies, no matter what country you’re in, meet someone in a public place and make sure people know where you are going.
I'm thinking about moving to korea, and this really helped me so thank you. And if anyone has any advice on living in korea/ or any culture or language advice if you put it in the comments I would be very appreciative! 😁
5) Confirmed, Danny is popular. Also being overwhelmed is the main reason Koreans seem to not reply on language apps... and unfortunately, the vast majority of people messaging Koreans are not interested in language exchange either. 9) Honorifics are probably one of the hardest things for a foreigner to understand. When I was first learning some Korean, it was also suggested to learn the polite forms first because if you mess up it wouldn't be as costly as being impolite.
Honorifics are not only in Korea. We have this way of expression in Bulgaria too. Plus all naming for the members of the family like in East India and other countries East of Bulgaria...
@@ixoraroxi It’s in every country. Even in the US, you don’t call older people by their first name easily. Also with people that you don’t know because it’s considered impolite. It’s also the same in the Caribbean and in many European countries.
1. Use apps to hail Taxis.
2. Don't talk to guys who refuse to give Kakao talk ( message app )
3. Don't expect K - Drama love from dating apps and clubs.
4. Always ask first if there's something you can't eat.
5. Be careful of language learning apps.
6. Don't underestimate the level of spicyness ( in food )
7. Don't mess with an Ajumma.
8. Be careful of cults on the street.
9. Respect the Elders.
10. Be careful of spy cameras.
Thanks so much for this list, Dan; I have a friend who intends to go to Korea one day.
While she was aware of a few things on the list, I feel she is much more prepared now after watching your video.
'Like'd' and Subscribed.
🐱
🙏 Thank You So Much for your Valuable Advice! Stay Safe & Stay Healthy! 🌷🌿🌏💜🕊
2nd one i don't understand it ..
And 5th one like how ... Because i wanna know please tell me
@@ymira__486 some give the wrong translation
@@ymira__486 those apps are easy for the guys to make fake numbers-
Make fake numbers for a one nightstand.
agree with everything he said. I lived in Seoul for around 6 months.
ps: when a Korean asked you as a FOREIGN about directions in Korea, red flag and from a cult. Walk away right away.
korean guys: like he said, forget the kdrama type. Not happening. Could talk a lot about it.
Spy cams: big issue that gave me anxiety, really be careful. They can be in hotels, public bathrooms and list goes on, I started to check everytme I went somewhere I could be privately filmed
Last thing; never never sit on a seat (subway or bus) thats for elderly or pragnant women, this will be extremely embarrasing for you. Just watch out for the signs on top of the seats
This is world wide.Save seats on the bus for the elderly.
@@josephpress1235 🎉it’s surprising to me how many people don’t do that automatically!
@@katsmeow6946 I know; right?
just go with the flow, don't mind other people business than u will be absolutely ok....
I am a introvert I usually don't talk , even see other people or do party , clubing etc etc I never face problem or racism in Seoul (Korea)
I know all u guys are not introvert like me but just try to don't mind other people business u will be ok...
it's not your country end of the day..
Can you tell me what do you use to check the spy cams? I’m also worried about that …
I used to work with an older Korean woman, and a middle age Korean woman when I was younger and they both treated me like I was their own daughter. I quickly became friends with them both and spent A LOT of time with the older of the 2 and she always wanted to take me back to visit her home town. But I really wanted to say how welcoming, and warm, and sweet they were and they were one of the main reasons I appreciate Korean culture so much now. Now, they were SUPER sweet normally, but they would go from 0-100 so fast if someone upset/wronged another person. Absolutely destroy them lol. I strive to be like them. And I miss them so much (I moved from home)
Edit: people are still responding to this, so I will just say, my use of "destroy them" was not in a physical sense. They never put her hands on anyone. The older woman had a strong finger point and a very angry tone and would really dig in verbally until you felt pretty bad about what you'd done. She was blunt, straight to the point and honest. Even if she wasn't mad. Some people didn't like it. I did. She treated me no differently, but she treated me well, because we treated each other well. So no, I don't like vengeance, or violence, or anything like that. But I miss being around people who will speak up when they see others mistreated.
Oh wow, you sound like you're repeating my life story, lol!
@makurakoneko : going from 0-100 when upset applies to most human beings - not just Korean.
@@DEUTSCHLAND.007 lol absolutely not. Most people go from about 0-15, enough energy to reach into their purse or pocket to grab their phone and start recording. Or leaning over to whisper to who's next to them. People don't help other people anymore. And if they do, even then, they have to make sure it's all filmed for their channel.
It is collective mind of korean.
Lol I feel like what he said about them was true too! I was with my son is South Korea and we were in a little restaurant. Well, I didn't know it was only a spicy one, it was a specialty one. There was a woman with her teen daughter next to us, he only other people there. I asked the server if the food pictured was spicy (in broken Korean) he said no, so I ordered. It set my mouth on fire and my son couldnt eat it. I asked if they had something else so my son could eat but the server said no. Well, the lady next to us wouldn't have it. I don't know what she yelled at him, but he bowed to her, left, and came back in like 3 minutes with soup and rice 😅😅. I bowed to her and said thank you. I wouldn't want to mess with an 아줌마 either 😅😅
Using taxi's were the bain of my existence in Korea! It was one of my biggest complaints about Korea. I loved so many things about the country & my experience was one of the best times in my life so far.
Korea promotes tourism but they are not foreigner friendly. I encountered so many rude & disrespectful drivers. From refusing to give me a ride to trying to charge triple the price for a 10 dollar ride. To literally having a Korean cop have to pull over late @ night and stand in the street to hail us a taxi himself & taxis still were not stopping for him, he was heated!
I attended Korea University one of the top colleges in Korea & the students who worked @ the desk called & set up a taxi pick up 4 me. When he got there & saw me he refused to let me in. He got into a heated debate with the student who called him. I could tell she threatened to report him if he didn't take me. She was literally pushing me in the taxi & putting my luggage in when he was clearly not having it. I was like yes, these are the circumstances I want to be in, riding in a taxi with a hostile driver.
They have an awesome night life but the subway stops running at midnight and taxi's don't want to pick up foreigners sooo u are stranded until 5 am when the subway starts up again because of this I didn't go out too much. As a woman I need to know I can get home safely at any time but especially @ night so this was a big deal 4 me.
do they not have a korean version of uber or some type of ride share?
why were those drivers so pressed?? 😭💀 im a very shy person so i feel like id want the ground to swallow me if a taxi refused to take me. im sorry you went through that
@@3xitthissid3 they do it was still fairly new & again drivers often times didn't want to pick up foreigners.
The 1st time I lived there. We were shopping at stores by the college & had a ton of bags.
Korea has steep hills everywhere so this was why it was difficult to walk back to school with a ton of bags.
As a shopper you learn really fast not to buy heavy or unnecessary things because chances are you have to carry those things home literally.
And you can bet there were will be hills on your way lol.
You can only call the kakao taxi if you had a korean phone. When you are new students it takes time to get Korean phones because you have to wait for
your temporary ID card to come in.
We asked a student who was with his mother if he could help us call a kakao taxi. It shows up, he talks to the driver & they start arguing.
In the end the driver refused to take us but the guy & his mom were so kind that instead of giving us an excuse as to why we couldn't take the taxi that showed up for us.
They were embarrassed apologized & went even more out of their way by insisting on walking back to their car & giving us a ride.
Like who does that?! We refused over & over but the guy was not having it. Not all of my experiences were bad of course.
And in the end nothing could ruin my time in Korea. The discrimination & the fact that there are no laws to protect u from it was my biggest complaint.
Korea humbled me in so many ways.
Everything else was a wonderful experience and why I studied abroad there twice.
@@noodle1885 Aww thank you.
The taxi was the worst for me but being refused at an over 21 club for being too old is what took the cake.
How are you too old to drink & dance, like my mind is still blown. Korea hurt my pride & knocked me down a few pegs lol.
Even with the bad stuff I would go a thousand more times because the good way outweighed the bad.
I left my heart in Korea & I constantly think of when I can go back.
You're not alone most people when in a new environment are shy too. So we were crazy embarrassed for everyone including ourselves.
Oh. Good to know. Interesting 🤔🇫🇮🙏
I’ve recently found you channel and I enjoy your videos a lot. I’ve always been interested in Korean culture and history and while I think it is great that Korea has become so popular in recent years, I think it is nice that you dispel those romanticized views on Korea (e.g. the Kadrama love moment you mentioned). People forget that Korea is a country like any other with normal people and not KDrama land.
Yeah Korea is just like any other country well good and bad things exist. one thing I hate about thee over romanticized trend is that we get bigger backlash when people ideals don’t match the reality
@@ThizisDanny tnx for the information about your country. I too had romantic fantasies about Korea. From watching my K-DRAMAS and Korean TV stations. I still love the korean culture and music especially. Ciao!!!
@@ThizisDanny
Hmmmm
It just makes me sad that when girls say they are into Asian guys, they specifically mean tall light skinned fancy K-PopAsian, and not short brown skinned jungle Asian.
@@janegoodall1837 I know right! Especially over here. Some ladies even go as far as praying the K-drama actors don't get married. It really baffles me. Maybe because I'm not a fan of celebrity crushes or maybe because I just have it in my mind that drama isn't "life".
I enjoyed this video a lot. I recently went to Korea, honestly there was a language barrier of course but for me since I’m a outgoing person it honestly wasn’t that bad especially since I know basics of Korean language. I have learned people will talk to just talk to you like to practice their English and I love it cause I am a talker! Also it was good practicing my Korean as well! Cannot wait to go back in October! Will be checking your channel out thanks for the tips!
I m also going in October 😅 late me see you there
@@faresalkabode4043 hope you enjoy and love it as much as I did!
This is really an eye opener. Thanks for the honest content. I am always scared of going to clubs or using public restroom in any foreign country. I hope I can avoid and take the required precautions when I am traveling to Korea. A personal experience:- Language apps have been a mixed bag. Sometimes we meet sincere language partners.. though many times they want to show the butterflies and end up stalking. The ahjumma comment was spot on! Can very well relate, though my kids are very young.
Quick clarification:- I know Korea has a strong drinking culture. How do we refuse a drink; especially to someone senior who may not understand why we don’t drink? Don’t want to show disrespect to anyone.
Unless it’s your boss a simple “No I don’t drink” would be fine! Sometimes in toxic work settings they make you drink but in daily lives no one can really force you to drink :) So nothing to worry about
@@ThizisDanny Thank you! Crossing my fingers😊
I never heard about Korea beying drinking country before, I am from alcohol nation (Czech) and refuse a drink can be really hard here, everyone expect from you that you will drink all the time and when you don't want to drink, you are weird and you have no friends. 😀
@@Pidalin I agree that some countries have a strong drinking culture. I love traveling and realized the world was our oyster. I come from a traditional culture where alcohol, smoking and drugs were a complete no no.. I moved to the US fifteen years ago where drinking was a social norm. Similarly Korea has a strong drinking culture and I realized it has deep roots embedded within social and cultural norms. I am lucky to have tons of friends on both spectrum and we respect each other’s boundaries. Sometimes I am the only one with a virgin pina colada but having the most entertaining conversation with a bunch of beer and soju drinking friends. I am their safe driver and ride to home 😂. True friends are always non judgemental.
@@Pidalin I come from a alcohol culture nations too (serbian and slovak which both drink all the time). At some point I was on meds that made me completely despise the smell of alcohol. Its when I realized the biggest problem was finding what to drink when you hang out or go out with friends lmao. Its a rare sight to find virgin cocktails and such so thats the first hurdle, finding what to drink instead that you wont get sick of. Second, I find people get over it pretty fast unless they have their own reasons to get you to drink. First I think a lot of people thought I couldnt have fun without alcohol and that I would be bored or boring if i was the only one not drinking. This happens when you start refusing and they might push you to drink more during this time, it comes from misguided worry and it passes soon. That got debunked pretty fast. When you meet new people theyll give you an unsure look, like are you gonna be a prude, give them lectures about drinking, etc. but they figure it out pretty fast when youre having a good time and leave you be.
From my experience the 2 types of people that will really push you to drink are people that really just want you to drink so they dont feel bad about drinking by themselves. So they try to get others to drink so they dont feel bad or so they have an excuse to drink. Like I remember I actually yelled at a friend that pushed alcohol on people cause he was drinking a lot at the time, and that night the rest of us werent drinking (work+needed to drive home) so he felt bad about being the only one wanting to drink so he kept pushing others to join him. And the people that have an interest in getting you drunk and sloppy, and lets say they dont have good intentions.
I say this cause I know it can feel impossible when something is so ingrained in the culture and socializing, but people tend to stop noticing pretty fast in reality.
Very nice insight into foreigners issues. I'm surprised by how accurate and thoughtful it is!
I lived a few years in Korea and while the experience might be different for Koreans and some other foreigners, I agree with all.
Scammer taxi drivers and cults were a pain, but once you know, it handlable. As for spy cams... download the apps and check around, no other choice sadly
Could you name me some of those spy apps?
”If someone says you have a good aura…WALK AWAY”😂😂 sounds hilarious out of context. I’ve heard experiences that some restaurants have automatically made the food less spicy if they saw it’s for a foreigner. I think that’s really sweet and thoughtful and I’m sure I would really appreciate it if that happened to me😆 though I would probably start boasting about how good I am with spicy food not knowing the truth😂
lol that would be cute 😂😂 yeah some might do that but if they have a fixed recipe .. nope haha so just watch out
Nah I’d be upset if they did that, I love spicy food
No it wasn't nice. I love spicy and when I was living in Korea I had to beg for spicy because they would insist that I couldn't handle it. I know what I like I am a grown woman.
Respect to those that can handle that level of spice, but I cannot do it. I like some spice if it's also flavorful, but overly spicy for no reason makes no sense to me. Kudos!
Okay so I’m just gonna put my mini experience here. Lemme tell you guys I have an making tolerance for spicy food to the point where I just adore spiciness. But just because you have a good tolerance doesn’t mean your stomach does! You could literally destroy your stomach and/or rectem
Yeah. Everything you said is true. I've got Korean friends. So they told me everything I should know about South Korea. From people, dating, friendship etc. But most of my Korean friends we communicate through Kakaotalk. So lucky having Korean friends who are very kind and respectful. No racisms.
subtitles coming soon and if you want to check out the VPN
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Thanks So Much Mr Dan Of South Korea Republic🇰🇷For Your Information about Being A Foreigner In Korea 🇰🇷🤗 Love And Respect From Malaysia 🇲🇾😁 The Relations Between Our Country Are So Closed 🇲🇾💜🇰🇷Good Luck To Your Country Because I Heard That What Happened Today Is Presidential Election😌
#STAYSAFE
#BTSFANS
I have a question though, what if you are older and unsure of how old the person is? I ask because I know in certain situations you act differently, such as if you go out with others and drink if they are older you look away to drink. If you’re the elder you normally pay and they are older you serve them, what do you do if you’re not sure??
@@shayshay7524 acting and talking in the polite form applies to people you meet for the first time and you are not close to regardless of age :) but situations like who pays for things.. it depends. if it’s a situation when you are with friends or someone close, oldest would try to pay but if it’s work related or school or whatever and you don’t know each other well including age, probably will share the bill or someone who is hosting will buy
@@ThizisDanny Thank you, when I go I don’t want to be disrespectful, I don’t want to be THAT person. Your videos are helping👍🏽
Thank you for your videos, i just find your channel and i really like your work. I wanna spend some time i Korea in the future, and i houpe, your channel could help me to prepare myself for it. O:)
When I was teaching in China about 20 years ago, I was in my 60s, and I have to say I really appreciated the respect that I received because of my age. My students would often ask for advice, which is something a young person in the US would never do.
You're in your 80s now? O:
I’m 86 right now!
This relates to the Confucian 5-relations (ruler and subject, father and son, elder brother and younger, husband and wife, peers). It’s just always been a part of local philosophy-older people know more, and so we need respect for them or we can’t transfer the knowledge. America particularly has a problem with this since they value the opposite, flat hierarchy and clueless youth!
@@Sol-In-Seoul I absolutely agree!
@@Sol-In-Seoul Confucianism also promotes toxic masculinity and puts women down. There is no reason that the father and son are more valuable in opinion or knowledge than the wife or daughter.
A teacher or expert regardless of age/gender has more to say on any subject because they are educated and have experience in that field.
Also respect is mandated in my book to everyone regardless of age or gender until they do something (usually treat someone like garbage, scam or harm another) that shows they aren't worthy of it from me.
The idea that age brings wisdom universally is just wrong. However, the idea that everyone has value regardless of age is true. People from all different walks of life, ages and genders can all have valuable information, experience and things to share.
I'm sick of ageism and it seems to just repeat with generations the more divided they are. I've met 13 year olds who are more mature and knowledgeable than people in my age group (which could easily explained by each new generation being more educated overall, especially in access to information). And I've met older individuals who have a lot to offer, especially when it comes to learning history, which is incredibly valuable. But I've also met arrogant, clueless and bitter people in both age ranges who think the world revolves or should revolve around them. Casting anyone off or thinking less of them because of age is just discrimination. Mindset matters a lot more than anything else about a person.
This was really helpful, thank you. I was wondering: Do non-Korean speaking women need to be careful of roofies at bars? Are Airbnb's safer in terms of hidden cameras (shudder)? This next question isn't safety related, but since you speak both languages, would you please recommend a bookstore with Korean poetry that is well translated into English? There seems to be a lot of beautiful poetry, but it always hinges on translation skills for a non-speaker to feel the senses conveyed. Would appreciate any suggestions you can share.
Dear Dan, thank you for this well thought out and helpful vlog. All cultures have their no nos and it good to be aware of what is ok and what is not. I have found that most of the Korean young people are very polite and reserved and elders even more so. I always felt uncomfortable when first time meeting a Korean student or professor they would bow or bow their head. I know that is a sign of respect but still I was always polite in my greetings just uncomfortable. I chuckled about Korean moms cuz my mom was the same way and now that I'm a mom, grandmother I'm the same way..I can be a momma bear 🤡 I really enjoy your vlogs. Thank you again for sharing. Safe travels and Godspeed. Tx🇺🇲
I understand it can be uncomfortable but just in our culture :) those people are well behaved and have learned their manners well! Some young people these days don’t know how to respect older people .. and sadly same can be said for some elders also 🥲
@@ThizisDanny
Omg seriously.......😱😱😱😱😱........????????!!!!!!!!!
OMG 😱😱😱😱😱
@@ThizisDannyIn Korea they have prejudice or racist attitude against people of Indian origin.
1. In Korea they will not given INDIAN tourists entry into pubs and night life places based on their nationality. Some pubs have signs that Indian and Pakistani people are not allowed inside.
Bouncers in the night clubs misbehaved or denied entry to Indians based on their nationality or skin color.
This makes Korea a very racist country.
2. Korean people won't rent their homes to indian people this creates issues to people who are studying or working in Korea.
3. Many Korean people dislike Indians due to their dark or dusky skin color.
4. Some Koreans say Indians are smelly others say their foods are smelly.. This is another kind of racist attitude when 70% Indian are vegetarians.
5. Some Koreans mock Indians by saying Indian culture is bad due to more rapes in India.. So here we like to highlight the gross rape per million is lowest in India compared to many developed nations like USA and most Muslim countries. Recently a Korean you tuber visited INDIA and was being harassed by Muslim boys, she was rescued by hindu boys. In india 79% of the rapes and crimes are conducted by illegal immigrants from Pakistan and Bangladesh who come inside India thru our porous borders. As you know Muslims hate hindus they come to india to create violence against hindus. Indian and British and UAE jails are filled with disproportionate number of Muslims this is because Muslims are prone to crimes. In foreign countries when Pakistani Muslims go to night clubs they pose themselves as INDIAN and misbehave or don't pay this creates bad impression about Indians so we would recommend before Korean make racism against INDIAN people they should ensure the people who did bad things in their country are Indian or Pakistanis and were they Muslim or hindu.. This will help you to understand the problem better.. Hindus of india seldom make problems or engage criminal acts, but Muslims are prone to violence, criminal acts and rapes. So Koreans must know about these things. In India it is said millions of Pakistani and Bangladeshi citizens are living illegally and they are engaged in criminal acts and rapes, when you visit INDIA be aware of this.
6. There is an organized effort in global media across the world to show Indians and Hindus in bad light.. This is primarily happened due to journalist and media are bribed by Chinese and oil rich Muslims.. You may have recently heard about the qatar gate scandals in European union.. This is now becoming obvious that China CCP and rich Muslim nation funding is targets Hindus and Indians they bribe journalists and media to mock Hindus and India, show them in bad light. This is happening across the world news papers and media.. This is not coincidence but a planned and organized efforts to persecute the indians globally. If this can happen to you due to our religion this can happen to you tomorrow.
7. Korean people should particularly know our history.. Indian hindu civilization and Koreans share a good history.. It is said most Koreans are having Indian dna due to Korean king married INDIAN queen in the past.. This is also why many many Korean language words are same as in Tamil, a regional Indian language.. Many many Korean foods are inspired or same as INDIAN Tamil foods.. Did you know that Tamil and Sanskrit are one of the oldest languages.. India and Korean govt have good relationships, do not spoil our relationship due to corruption in global media. Judge people by personal experience not based on media. Don't confuse INDIAN people with Pakistanis and Muslims.
8. Indian people love Koreans and watch lot of Korean movies and songs but your hatred and racism can create negative image of Korea in long run.. It is time to take note of all the points mentioned above.. The Chinese and Pakistani don't want INDIA to purchase Korean tanks they attack us with fake news to divide us, don't let them impact your vision about india and understand the conspiracy of china and Pakistanis.
9. Let us not forget how 20 Pakistani Muslims tapped raped 1600 non Muslim girls in just one city of UK is very famous.. In Rotherham UK 1600 non-muslim girls were raped due to their religion was hated by the Pakistani Muslims.
8:20 I love the Tandem app! I have this really cool Korean friend, we've been friends for over two years! We speak Korean together and text on other apps outside of Tandem. I have met many great people on this app, not just for Korean language learning, but also French, Chinese, Thai, whatever language really! People have also approached me and sent me a message to know more about my language, and I think in general the app is really cool and fun! I get many messages from Chinese people loving my blonde hair or loving the fact that I'm from Denmark
Danny this is an excellent video! My niece from Hawai’i just moved to Korea for university exchange program. I sent her link to your video to watch. Mahalo (thank you). Please continue making videos. Your English is perfect and very nice to listen to.
This was really useful information. Thank you 🙌
I can't believe these things need to be said, Dan, and God bless you for doing it!
Incredibly important info you've shared here. Especially for people who haven't traveled internationally. Been many years for me but I was military so I was taught the proper etiquette in every country we visited. Japan and Korea were beautiful btw.
I spent 3 yrs in Korea in the 1980s as a military member. I enjoyed the experience
The Korean people were genuine and heartfelt
Hello, I am from Trinidad & Tobago 🇹🇹 , I love traveling, these tips for traveling to Korea are very thoughtful. Have had to deal with the technology in different countries and I must say I am very glad for the information you have provided. Thanks so much.
Thank-you dan for the video my friend had a difficult time in south Korea they couldn't get a ride or anything like that she was being watched as well and followed I feel bad for her I told her to be careful when walking the streets of South Korea I'm really scared for her she needs to be aware of what is going on around her next time she goes to South Korea I'm going with her I'm tired of her thinking it's a kdrama romance I keep telling her it's not real I'm getting tired of having to tell her about these red flags it's ridiculous she can't even get herself together and is always chasing these guys around in south Korea 🤦♀️I'm getting fed up of having to deal with this nonsense anyways its ridiculous and childish
This is very informative Dan, thank you. When traveling to any country, it's always good to do some research. I honestly like the respectful factor of Korea, it's much like South-Africa, without the bowing. We're also quite accustomed to giving things or receiving them with both hands, because that is a custom our black people practice. White people are a bit more Westernised, so respect is very important, but we tend to be a little bit more casual with addressing people. You call an older person aunty and uncle whether they are your family or not. But it's more amongs the Afrikaans people, a sister language from Dutch. The British English custom doesn't do that much, they call you on your first name, so you learn to adapt and accept people for their individual values and standards. To an extent it's a bit of a cultural clash at times. For instance, you will absolutely never call your mother you (jy and jou) if you are Afrikaans. You'll be dead. It's means saying Mamma a 100 times a day. I tend to speak more formally than most, because my mom was a school teacher and manners is everything. 😆 So, my mother is Afrikaans and my father is English, I've adapted by speaking their respective languages with them. It's the safest.
Jip, middle aged Mammas all over the world are scary, we're mostly overprotective creatures, but in SA, being polite and well mannered is the task looked up to, to the older mom's, they set the standards. 🙏🌻 Thanks for sharing. The spy camera thing is upsetting. My goodness! If ever my kids intend to travel, I can give them advice. 💐💐💐
I have to disagree, South African parents these days have slacken when it comes to manners, respect and morals values. "You'll be dead" - Agree 100%. Once I wasn't thinking what I was saying, words just came out of my mouth and I just back-chat my mother. Eish!! That was when my mother told, she once back-chat her grandmother, at first nothing happened... well so she thought. My great grandmother waited for the right opportunity patiently. Those elder people had a lot of patience and a lot of time on their hands. The right opportunity was when my mother least expected anything when she went to the bathroom to wash up... surprise surprise she received a wet washcloth Beating!! Kids these days will faint and think or hope they are dead. "Klaar gepraat". I would also find the spy camera or any spy method upsetting for me it is disrespectful putting your nose in my business. I would say these days kids are trained to be adults and not kids. There was a time that manners and respect was wore like badge of honor. Lekker dag.
My friends and I are actually coming to Korea this fall 😊 we plan on going to Seoul, Busan and Gyeongju. I’m so happy that Korea reopens for travelers again in April 2022! Thank you for your video! ☺️
Thank you so much for covering this topic! Loved it! ❤
I find other cultures so fascinating so it was wonderful to get some insight into certain parts of Korean culture that aren't really considered when traveling outside of ones own country.
I can't wait to visit some day
The spy cameras are also a problem here in Australia too..yuck! It's pretty well known here to try and avoid certain public restrooms and motels in certain districts.
Spy cams are awful. Idk what’s wrong with people and what’s worse and something I really can’t understand is why do you want to see someone in the toilet in the first place.. it’s so gross 🤢
@@ThizisDanny There's some very strange people out there, I couldn't think of seeing anything worse then someone using the toilet let alone have recordings of it. Gross.
I wished I found Dan earlier than 2 years ago. I travelled to Jeju Island its beautiful safe lovely food and nice people I had no problems at all.. Plus I have visited the Disney Land arranged by the Tour Group… had many good Korean foods
My friend and I are elders and hoping to visit Korea in a couple of years. I'm slowly learning Korean (565 day streak so far 😊) and loving it. Thank you so much for such an informative and helpful video. I really enjoy your channel. 고맙습니다
Thaaaanks :) Going to Seoul by the end of this Month, solo traveling and soooooo excited but also soooo anxious :D
Its always good to know what people should look at when they travel, every country has its own do and don'ts, thanks for sharing
I've learned a lot from this video, about the kakao talk; public wifi/VPN.
i visited Korea in 2019, stayed at Toyoko hotel inn, gangnam for 4 days. enjoyed my stay, the people were friendly. When you go to a shopping mall it was difficult to communicate but we used a language translate app to communicate. Planning on visiting again in the future
4 & 6) Luckily, I'm not allergic to any food. That being said, I am kind of picky and can't eat spicy food, so I am glad that you mentioned the options for checking ingredients. Also, I can really relate to the topic of someone saying "a little bit spicy" and then I take a bite and am instantly trying to gulp down milk. With my family, I got in the habit of saying something like "you're level of spicy or my level of spicy"... reminding them that even normal pepper is bad to me.
yeah don’t ever ask a Korean haha they will be like it’s just a little spicy and then you will end up not feeling your tongue
I'm the same as far as *spiciness goes. I can't have anything to do with spicy food. As a child I ate anything and everything being raised in a Asian fashion. Hawaii has a majority of influx of Asian food and cuisine and people too. We usually eat a mix of food. We call it a *mixed plate.
@@ThizisDanny
Omg
Seriously........???????!!!!!!!
Or I should say shincha
Korean spicy is on a completely different level though. I had an American friend (we worked together in a hostel in Seoul many years back) who loved spicy food and was very strong when it came to handling it. We all went out for lunch to have dumpling soup one day and he decided that he was going to try the spiciest thing on the menu. Mind you, this dish was actually very clearly marked as extremely spicy and had warnings on it. Even the staff warned him when he ordered it. He insisted though. Let's just say that it was so spicy that even I started tearing up just from sitting next to him at the table. Long story short; he finished the bowl, but he was a very miserable guy while eating it, haha.
As for me, I'm like you; I can't handle hot food. That said, the longer you stay in Korea and the more Korean food you eat, the better your tolerance becomes. I'm a lot more tolerant to spicy food now than I was before going to Korea.
As for an Asian like me, I overestimated the spiciness level. Ahjumma was shocked I could eat the ojingeobokkeum so easily and not wincing and said she herself couldn’t eat that spicy dish. My spiciness tolerance is just through the roof.
Also, yes. Most korean guys who talk to you and suddenly want to meet, in hotels? That’s a red flag. I even gave a long winded advice to one to live his life honestly 😅
Meeting at a hotel is a red flag in all cultures.
@@mytravls😂😂 agreed
This man straight on be guiding us in all folds. Shout out to you, sir!! I haven't met an influencer who is concerned with safety of his users. Thank you ✨💗
I've lived an accumulated two years in Korea. In 2015 for 6 months. Another 6 months in 2017. And just recently a full 13 months working in Korea in 2021-22.
There's so much I've experienced, especially as a Hispanic, plus size girl as opposed to my friends who were also foreigners.
Many of these issues he talked about arose between myself or my foreign friends. Great video!
how did you go there
@@litmuspaper7238 How did I go to Korea?
Im a Hispanic but I’m white as hell and white washed 😭😭 but do you have any tips I plan on going there just for vacation?
@cacabaka2456 Yeah! I can send you an email or a message on insta with my experiences and some tips based on what you'll be doing? But things can always differ though.
This video is definitely helpful because I’m coming to Korea this summer. I scheduled my trip as a time off after my graduation without much thought, which was bad on my part. Since scheduling it though I have been researching a lot more and trying to learn Korean, but the apps you mentioned will be really helpful I’m sure! Thanks for the video!
This is one of the best informative traveling videos I’ve seen. Thanks for sharing.
I still stand by my message btw, the biggest thing we all need to be careful of while in Korea, FALLING FOR DANNY!
Yes my adopted son is quiet handsome inside and out. I’ll help be a momma bear 😄😄😄. (Kidding of course)
lol 😂😂😂😂 that doesn’t happen so often
Lol 💕
I have my own Danny lol Sorry Danny!
@@ThizisDanny 말도 안돼요! 믿을 수가 없어요 ㅎㅎㅎ
Hello Dan!!
Thank you so much for being realistic and honest about Korea. I follow and watch the TH-camr Rachel Kim (She's Korean and lives in South Korea as well) and she has said that Koreans tend to be defensive about Korea, so I just appreciate you being honest about life in Korea. I will definitely keep in mind what you talked about if I visit South Korea!!
Also, have you done a Korean fashion video? Whenever I watch anything and I mean ANYTHING that has to do with a Korean person in that content, they are always so well dressed and on point when it comes to style and fashion. Plus, Korean fashion lines up with my personal style!! I truly enjoy watching your videos and I'll be looking for that video on Korean fashion!
Thank you so much as I was contemplating on visiting Korea. Gosh there are a lot of dont’s I see. But the scariest is the hidden cameras part. I’m from Malaysia and basically we are a fun loving country and don’t have a lot of rules. Any elderly person over here we address them as Uncle or Aunty even if they aren’t our aunties or uncles. It’s just politest way we address the elders over here regardless of race as you may know we are a multi racial country. You are amazing always giving great content thank you again.
You are a Muslima and your name is Mar louis
@@amiragadotimtim8203 yes it is. I was born into a Catholic family. I chose to keep the name my folks gave me as it from them. Alhamdullilah
@@shakunmarie Assalam alekum my sis but in Islam we have to have a Muslim name becz the non muslims they dont have a Muslim name Well came Salam from germany
Thank you, these are helpful! I’m planning on traveling around Korea in the next couple of years, and these were most of my fears! Especially hidden cameras. I don’t want to stay in motels or Airbnb because it seems riskier in that regard.
These are such good tips for me and my daughter when we visit Korea (hopefully next year). Thanks for the language tips. I am learning Korean but when to use what is so confusing and this helped so that I can just focus on the general formality phrases and not try to remember all of the differences. Thanks again for great content.
I visited Korea about 6 years ago, and I had no problems. I am older--a retired teacher--but I traveled from Seoul to Busan to Jeju and back to Seoul, both by train and flying. I was treated wonderfully by everyone without exception. Once at the train station outside of Busan, my cellphone battery was dead, and I could not contact the hotel that I would be late. A policeman who wasn't sure of English, walked away and returned with a civilian who spoke English and loaned me his cell to contact the hotel. Next, they called a taxi and made sure that I got in with my luggage. Then, I had the fastest ride of my life straight to the hotel in Busan. On Jeju, I also had a good taxi driver. One thing I learned: the cabs are in line, and one should take the first one first. Thank you for your information. Perhaps for younger people who get involved with dating, the warnings are important. I traveled alone, walked around Seoul in the evenings to the theater for concerts, and not once did I feel threatened or in danger.
Great advice, Dan! I'm an American ajumma (sometimes we're called mama-bears), and we can be scary! Thanks especially for the taxi tip!!
Your video makes me want to go to Korea even more. What I've taken from this video is looking at Koreans as human beings and not equating them with K pop or K drama characters. I've been subscribing to Korean TH-cam channels that into the same things as me such as camping, hiking, and cycling.
Dan, thank you for this vlog. OMG, everything is so helpful. I was there a few years ago, and I was so lost and always felt like a step behind because I was finding out cultural and etiquette gestures after the fact. The good thing was I stayed in the tourist spots and it was soooo wonderful. After your vlog, I got a couple of apps on my phone because I want to venture of a bit this time. Take care. -S
Thank’s for the tips, want to visit Korea someday
I laughed when you said 'red flag if they don't use KaKao'. I heard some stories from some of my friends. LINE is the main app for the people who live in Taiwan. I also laughed at the Ajima (sorry if I got the spelling wrong) the Cantonese name for the married woman is See Lai (we do the same thing too: we don't argue, we just have to walk away - sometimes can spot them from a mile away because of their style😝😉). Thank you for all your advice! Really enjoy your videos. Looking forward to your next one.
I was looking for some TH-cam channels to improve my english, and finally i found you ! I love your voice, you speak clear and calm, that is it what i was looking for ! So I am really really happy. I also watch a lot of kdramas or listen to kpop music, And i know that in real live for sure not everything is that magical like they shows, so i am grateful that you are talking about how real korea looks, what to expect and be carefull about. I am definitely staying with you ! Thank you for your work and i wish you the best !
Thank you Dan.. very insightful 👏.. I was supposed to have done 5 weeks Asian tour Vietnam South Korea and Japan last year but was cancelled 😢 and again cancelled this year 😢..but this gives me more time to learn more basic Korean as we are staying longer there.. I'm lucky I have friends in all 3 countries to help guide us and looking forward to a mixed bag of cultures next year .. keep safe and keep making g us aware xx
Hi Dan, I just found your channel and I'm moving to Seoul from Melbourne Australia this November/December. So I'm always curious about these type of videos. Several Korean ladies told me about the spy cameras and their experiences which creeped me out a bit. I'm glad to see you also share this information. Personally one of the first things I learnt was to use polite speech always and now to elders and also to use two hands. I do these gestures etc in my own country with Korean people/ elders.
I enjoy your videos. Good information and explained clearly.
Thankyou.
How is it over there? I'm from Melbourne too! Hoping to travel to Seoul this October 😍
Thanks Dan , definitely very useful tips coz one day we’d love to visit Korea, when your country/situation open 🤞🏼
Whenever you said Aura it's remind me park seo joon 😂
I think in korea which people compliment on you that you have good Aura you have to stay away from them and dont follow them to certain places and if you met a person like park seo joon of ( Secretary kim ) you can trust on them 😂😂 because they never ever compliment on yours Aura lol 😂
Because I won't be able to leave my country to visit Korea (yes, I'm learning Korean but it's for fun and a brilliant brain jogging) I enjoy to get to know your country a bit through your or other eyes. It is very different to Germany and I love tlo learn new things...I freaked out as I saw a video where they bought already peeled onions!! 🤯 That is exactly what we (I) need here in Germany (in my favorite supermarket)! 😍😍😍
So thank you for bringing your country closer to me, with all its facets...and that with the KDrama love, I already suspected that the Korean film industry was lying to us.😔🤭
I’ve been a little nervous about going this fall (especially since I’m African lol), but this eases it. And that info about Line instead of Cacou (I don’t know how to spell it, sorry) is interesting because I’ve tried to meet people overseas on an app ahead of time, and a lot of them have asked if I had line.
Thank you! I’m saving this video
Interesting, will have to remember these if I get to visit to Korea.
I actually really like how respectful Koreans are to their elders, it's nice. I'm currently taking a Korean course and learning the different informal and formal phrases. Hopefully I can remember to use the right ones when it comes to meeting new people, I'll be scared of getting it wrong though 😅
Just try
Great video man. You just earned a new subs. GreetI from Ventura County California.
As someone who has SEVERE seafood allergies, I have a legit fear of not being able to actually EAT while visiting. I don't know if the food industry is regulated as strict as it is here in the US. For instance, raw meats have their own counter/space, and veggies/fruit have their own. And between different meats, the counter is always disinfected to prevent cross contamination. I'm scared of ordering something like fried chicken and sweet potatoes, and the chef prepares fish/shellfish on the same counter. Can you offer any insight to food prep or guidelines that food handlers in Korea must follow for health and safety of their customers?
You literally let the restaurant manager know you hv a severe allergy - & make sure you've made it clear; do you keep an epipen with you - is that the level of severity?! That's what I've always done. Am pretty sure food standards are just as high, or higher - S Korea is a very developed country - it's not like going to such as even Cambodia or Vietnam, espc not in say, Seoul🙏💜
Many restaurants specialize. So often if you don’t go to a seafood restaurant, you will be fine. Many restaurants have one or two menu items with different options.
Thanks dan this helps a lot coz I am really interested in korea culture a lot and this helps me to know more before I travel to Korea
Once again thank you ssssoooooo much for making this video
That was so informative. Thanks Dan! I understand the respect culture, we also have it in my country and language. The spy camera thing is very disturbing and it can easily trigger paranoia in some people.
Thanks for your videos, I just find your channel. And Its really interesting for one that lives in Denmark to get an insight into another cultur.
And i will visit Korea in the future :)
환영합니다 감사합니다 어서오세요!
Thank you Danny, very good advice, I do plan on visiting Korea soon - once restrictions for Covid are lifted, and this information is very helpful. I enjoy learning different ways of culture. Every country is so different! I also like you throwing in Korean words for us to learn, hope you continue with that, adds an extra depth to video😋 also helps with studying the language. What are some places you would recommend for visitors to see?
Thanks again for sharing some of your time with us again, it’s appreciated!
restrictions are slowing lifting..! places to visit… there are so much so I will try to make more videos on those :)
I’m going to Korea in 2 months and this is so helpful! 정말 고마워요!
Thank you again for your content 🙏🏼 I’ve been looking for a long time to find useful information for my first visit there since I’ll be solo. I feel weird looking up “dating” in Korea as a way to prepare for a trip sometimes but I have heard so many rumors about needing to “watch out” if you’re in another country for scams and such. I appreciate your direct answers and advice!
Interesting topic and thanks for sharing! Been to South Korea for Holiday several times with friends. Mostly enjoyable experiences! I know basic korean conversation so i got around places purely by subway, buses or walk with the help of naver map. The only thing i did not get to try was to order food through delivery apps because i didnt have a korean local number to do so. Totally agreed on the Spiciness level! I asked for mild….but it was hella spicy and i almost died.
Oh ya danny, just curious- when i was in korea, we encountered random ladies at different occasions asking us for directions (at bus station or subway station), and they said this to us “Unnie, is this bus or train going to xxxx place” ? I was so puzzled by this because they look like they are in their 50s while we are just 20s? Or this is how they address people when they are asking for directions?
Yes Unnie can also be used as an expression to call women in their 20s or 30s. it’s especially more common when those people are working in a shop then it’s a familiar way of calling them, instead of calling them Miss which could sound a little to formal:)
Just like the term Aunty (이모) in Korea is used for women working at restaurants when they aren’t really our Aunties
Dan, thank you for making this video and being honest about your home & culture its been very useful and informative.
Good Danny, the video is exhaustive, I liked it a lot, when you go to a foreign country it is always better to inform yourself first about the habits, customs, traditions so as not to run into situations that are also dangerous, every country has its sides dark, its ghosts, and you have explained them very well. Even when you talk about language dating apps, it's nice to talk to people from other countries, but I'm very skeptical about these apps, they seem ambiguous to me, better not trust them. The topic on allergies is also interesting, I have a friend who is allergic to garlic, if she eats it, her lips, eyes swell and she goes into anaphylactic shock, she risks dying she swells her throat and suffocates, given the amount of garlic you use in Korea is probably not the right country for you. You made a very useful video, with great content.
I’m new Danny I’m gonna happily subscribe
Thank you Dan! This is very useful! I am getting more excited about traveling to South Korea next year. I saw this morning that the quarantine will be lifted April 1st for those who are totally vaccinated. So that is a good thing!
You’re right on everything, is on point, perfect English skills… living here for 5yrs now!
Hi, I am new to the channel and I find it very entertaining. I am planning to come and teach English as a foreign language in your country. So I do a lot of research on South Korea. I even have kakoatalk and other apps to make connections with people. I am also learning Korean but I'm a bit lazy with that. I have a fear of being alone in a crowd with strangers. I'm not sure how I'm going to deal with that. It will be the first time being on my own and away from family and friends. Thank you for your channel though and being honest about things. I love Korean culture, the respectful mannerisms, exquisite food and beautiful country. That is what attracted me to your country and moving there will be a scary move but I'm totally up for it...
Thanks for this me and my sister we will visit korea next year
환영합니다 감사합니다 어서오세요!
This wasn't the only video I've watched that tackles about red flags in SK but still thanks for the heads up. I have never been in your country, just my father coz he used to work there. I only liked K love stories through webtoon but I'm aware that there are still something beyond it in real life. Like every country in the world has its own bad side. Nice topic! 👍😊
I'm planning a trip to Korea next year and I randomly had this video recommended to me, I'm glad I clicked and watched 😊
Thank you for the information!
Same. I’ll be going to Incheon
와... 영어를 잘합니다 !!! You are the first Korean person I know who speaks English with pretty much no Korean slang and in proper English structure !!!! Awesome !!
🙄
You're wilding
Dan, it seems that almost all the videos are exclusively about eating food. I believethere is so much more to see in south Korea than eating. Maybe I'm one of the only people out here wanting more than just the food - which is great, but I sincerely believe there is so much more to see. YES, I want to visit Korea, mostly inspired by a old friend and I want to honor her. Thanks so much for your many videos about Korea. william
Thank you for your honest take on important cultural points to consider while visiting Korea, from the perspective of someone who is new to the place and people!
New subscriber here from Greece ! I loveeee Korea culture,people,language movies and music! Started to learn Korean language ❤❤.
Your content was good and actually I did learn a few things that I didn’t know but I’ve already been to South Korea and I had a wonderful time and I’ll be going back very soon.
I met many nice people over there and now I have a lot of Korean sisters and brothers me and my daughter decided to get baptized while we were in South Korea and I am still in touch with many of the people in my sisters and brothers that I now have over there and we miss each other a lot.
I have always enjoyed learning about different cultures and meeting different people and their way of life. It doesn’t matter what country you go to what state you always have to be careful because they’re always creeps perverts murderers just strange people everywhere but I do like the information that you shared and I agree with you that when a Korean man ask you to contact them online or WhatsApp or hangouts or whatever these different apps are don’t take them seriously and I have learned the hard way with that losing a lot of money and having my feelings hurt just to say the least.
I was just taking a drive and listening to my Korean music and your site popped up so I decided to look at a few of your videos and now I subscribed so I just want to say keep up the good work.
This was very helpful Dan Thank you 🌺🏵️💮🌸
hi dan, this was a super informative video! i think in general if you’re from an Asian country, a lot of the cultural norms/practises are pretty similar like respect, honorifics, even spice levels lol. i was supposed to visit Seoul (+ Tokyo as well) with my friend in 2020 but obviously corona happened and we haven’t been able to reschedule it since ☹️ the spy cameras were a big concern to us because it’s so scary to think that your privacy can just be invaded like that when it’s so hard to spot. I’ve been learning Korean for a few years, I’d say I’m intermediate so I think I’d be okay getting around etc but when I was planning our trip I was pretty confused about transport? mainly public transport within Seoul and also ktx to places like busan, would that be something you’d be interested in making a video about maybe? that would be super helpful ☺️ hope you’re doing well :)
Greetings Dan, ur blog was great and very informative, I wanted to visit several Asian country’s when I retired this was very interesting and very good, Thanks 🙏
Thank you Dan. I was watching some Kdramas n had some great misunderstandings about Korean guys. Once again thank you for clearing up.
I came across your channel by accident today and checked out a fair few of your videos. I'm currently debating whether to finish up my masters in IELTS (for those who don't know it is basically teaching english to people foreign to the english language) and one of the programs was to work in South Korea. I've been learning to speak Korean as well as hangul but was completely unaware of Korea itself as a country. Thank you for posting content that is helpful to travellers, students, visitors and workers thinking of heading to South Korea. I am a really naieve and sometime gullible person lol so knowing these things is more helpful that you may ever know haha!! Keep up the good work, it is very appreciated!!
Found your channel by mistake. But glad I did. Never thought about ever visiting but the way you break things down to help new visitors out I might just check South Korea out.
So do you not run up to your girl friend with an umbrella and cover her head. Lol just kidding. K dramas are very romantic except for the kiss. They put their face together and don’t move. There is one thing that I found strange in a lot of the Kdramas. They always sleep in their clothes? Enjoyed your video
I used to think they were romantic too until i realised who i am now, if someone brough me umbrella, i would look at them lime they have gone mad cos i was enjoying the rain on my face or if someone held my hands, i would pull it away cos social distancing is my thing before it became a thing or me falling? I catch myself and look at his hands like, what were u trying to achieve? Ya ever since i realised i have changed, ive been palm facing to kdramas
Hi Dan, thank you very much about the helpfull informations.
I would like to ask you something. I heard a lot of rumors from korea about beautystandart/lookisim. Did you already do a video about it? I've been shocked when I heard that people who are not beautyfull or skinny enough are treated bad/ get bullied. Is it true?
Danny I have a question 🙋🏻♀️ How accessible is South Korea for wheelchair users? I’m doing physical therapy and I’m not 100% sure I can walk again yet so I most likely have to be prepared for my wheelchair. I heard from another video it’s not so I’m curious now as that would affect my future plans.
Thanks for the food allergies heads up! I definitely need to look out for that. Dairy and gluten trigger my immune system to attack my thyroid so I have to be that annoying customer at all the restaurants.
The Ajummas warning surprised me. All the ones I hung out with in my classes were the sweetest 🥺 They would always feed me snacks lol and one even held my hand when I said something that made her emotional which I’m not gonna lie freaked me out because I’m not used to Asians being touchy. But now I’m going to remember not to upset them 😅 I just can’t imagine them upset
There is a good korean channel that covers this exact topic th-cam.com/users/WERACLEvideos
I am also curious about wheelchair accessibility since I am also in a wheelchair at the moment.
@@WhatIsThis-zq4hk Thank you! This is right up my alley as I became quadraplegic last year. I’m still learning a lot.
@@i_am_miss_e_xoxo How long have you been in a wheelchair if you don’t mind me asking??
@@AlejandraXio Since May 2021 when I was finally able to be transferred from a bed after a near fatal car accident. I am learning to walk again, but it's a slow process and I have had a total of 15 surgeries so far since 2/16/21
This is extremely helpful, thanks so much for posting! Can't wait to check out the rest of your channel.
This is such a helpful video! Thanks so much for making it. I will definitely make note of these things before I come to Korea and as I continue to learn Korean. Hope you are feeling better! 😀
Planning to go to Korea in May - thanks for the tips bro idol… it’s good to have a heads up - as you said “Be Careful” hahaha
환영합니다 감사합니다 어서오세요!
ICN Transfer Taxi 가 필요하시면 예약을 해 주십시오.
I am proud of Korea's respect just like Africa. Second your mom is like me when I'm protecting my kids. Sometimes I'm like that. . And thank you so much I enjoy your video.
Dan is an amazingly awesome information guide. He’s a boss
Hey Danny, you really blew mind!🤯 But thank you for the information. It will definitely come in handy. I am going to try speaking Korean to some of my elderly customers on my mail route. 👌🏼😊
'Be careful in Korea' was very interesting. You shared good tips on 'Kakao' and 'Papago' - will check what I can find on the cultural manners . Thank you Dan
“When she’s mad i have to find shelter”
All of us can relate😂😂
Thank you for the info. Visiting Korea this November and your video would help a lot.
Lovely advice. I’m a pink haired 51 year old married mum. I’m dying to travel around Korea. I’m gonna stick out like a sore thumb lol. In England, especially at night it’s not safe for women on their own. I have noticed a lot of women my age and older who travel alone often hire a guide to keep them company and take them to the best spots. But ladies, no matter what country you’re in, meet someone in a public place and make sure people know where you are going.
I'm planning a trip to Korea, and was doing some research. This is a super useful video. Thankyou so much for doing this video.
I'm thinking about moving to korea, and this really helped me so thank you. And if anyone has any advice on living in korea/ or any culture or language advice if you put it in the comments I would be very appreciative! 😁
Super helpful! Going to Korea in a week and some of these things were unique and I would not have known. Thanks!
5) Confirmed, Danny is popular. Also being overwhelmed is the main reason Koreans seem to not reply on language apps... and unfortunately, the vast majority of people messaging Koreans are not interested in language exchange either.
9) Honorifics are probably one of the hardest things for a foreigner to understand. When I was first learning some Korean, it was also suggested to learn the polite forms first because if you mess up it wouldn't be as costly as being impolite.
Honorifics are not only in Korea. We have this way of expression in Bulgaria too.
Plus all naming for the members of the family like in East India and other countries East of Bulgaria...
@@ixoraroxi I didn't know that. I knew all the asian cultures had them. Thanks for the knowledge.
@@ixoraroxi It’s in every country. Even in the US, you don’t call older people by their first name easily. Also with people that you don’t know because it’s considered impolite. It’s also the same in the Caribbean and in many European countries.
s honorific common in South East Asian countries too. Best keep the casual greetings to children.
Honorifics are also used in Germany, France, and The Netherlands. There may be more...