EL3 - Week 2-2.pdf

HIGHER ACADEMIA INC. Department of Hospitality Management WEEK 2: HISTORY OF KOREA LEARNING OUTCOMES Identify and describe the geographical features of the Korean Peninsula a...

HIGHER ACADEMIA INC. Department of Hospitality Management WEEK 2: HISTORY OF KOREA LEARNING OUTCOMES Identify and describe the geographical features of the Korean Peninsula and their significance in shaping Korean history. Understand key periods in Korean history, such as Gojoseon, the Three Kingdoms period, Unified Silla, Goryeo, and Joseon. Familiarize yourself with key Korean myths and legends, such as the story of Dangun, and their roles in Korean cultural identity. Develop an appreciation for Korea’s cultural diversity and historical heritage. Understand the historical context behind modern Korean customs, traditions, and societal norms. FL: Foreign Language 1 | 12  HIGHER ACADEMIA INC. Department of Hospitality Management FLAG OF SOUTH KOREA FLAG OF NORTH KOREA COUNTRY PROFILE – SOUTH KOREA OFFICIAL NAME: Republic of Korea FORM OF GOVERNMENT: Republic CAPITAL: Seoul POPULATION: 51,418,097 OFFICIAL LANGUAGE: Korean MONEY: Won FL: Foreign Language 2 | 12  HIGHER ACADEMIA INC. Department of Hospitality Management AREA: 37,901 sq mi (98,190 sq km) MAJOR MOUNTAIN RANGES: Taebaek Mountains, Sobaek Mountains MAJOR RIVERS: Han, Kum, Naktong COUNTRY PROFILE – NORTH KOREA OFFICIAL NAME: Democratic People’s Republic of Korea FORM OF GOVERNMENT: Single-party state CAPITAL: Pyongyang POPULATION: 25,381,085 OFFICIAL LANGUAGE: Korean MONEY: North Korean won AREA: 46,540 square miles (120,538 square kilometers) MAJOR MOUNTAIN RANGES: Kaema Highlands, Changbaek, Nangnim, Hamgyŏng, T’aebaek MAJOR RIVERS: Yalu, Tumen, Ch’ŏngch’ŏn, Taedong, Chaeryŏng, Yesŏng KOREAN MYTHOLOGY - DANGUN AND THE ORIGIN OF THE ANCIENT KOREA FL: Foreign Language 3 | 12  HIGHER ACADEMIA INC. Department of Hospitality Management October 3rd marks the national holiday when Koreans celebrate the establishment of the first Korean country, Gojoseon (고조선). This national holiday is called Gaecheonjeol (개천절), or the National Foundation Day in English. According to legend, Gojoseon was founded in 2333 BC by the legendary Dangun (단군), before the ancient countries of Goguryeo (고구려), Baekje (백제), and Silla (신라) were founded. The legend of Dangun starts with Hwanin (환인), the ruler of the Heavens, and his son Hwanung (환웅). Hwanung had a strong desire and burning wish to rule the earth, as he kept looking at it from the Heavens. Hwanung eventually asked for his father’s permission to descend upon earth and rule over it, to which Hwanin granted. Upon hearing this, Hwanung brought 3000 of his followers and the gods of rain, wind and clouds with him to earth. They descended to Shindansu (신단수, the Holy Tree of Life) on the mountain FL: Foreign Language 4 | 12  HIGHER ACADEMIA INC. Department of Hospitality Management Taebaek (태백산), which is called Baekdu mountain (백두산) today. Here, they established the holy city of Sinsi (신시), and proceeded to rule over the earth while educating its people. A while after these events, a bear and a tiger prayed to Hwanung, and told him that they wished to become humans. Hwanung, upon hearing their wishes, asked the bear and the tiger to avoid sunlight for 100 days and only eat garlic and mugwort. The bear and the tiger quickly agreed, and retreated to a nearby cave. In the beginning, the tiger and the bear did quite well. However, after 21 days, the tiger could not endure the situation any longer and left the cave. The bear, determined to become a human, stayed and fulfilled Hwanung’s request. Hwanung, of course, kept his promise and turned the bear into a human. The bear, finally part of humanity, took the name of Ungnyeo (웅녀, Bear Woman). Ungnyeo, sad over the fact that she did not have anyone to marry, prayed to Hwanung for a son. Hwanung, moved by the prayers of Ungnyeo, transformed himself into a human, and married Ungnyeo. They soon gave birth to a son and named him Dangun Wangeom. Dangun, regarded as the first human prince of the land, grew up to establish his own kingdom. This kingdom was called Joseon (조선), but is generally called Gojoseon (Ancient Joseon) to disambiguate it from the Joseon dynasty (1392 - 1910). The Three Kingdoms Apart from Gojoseon, the region of Korea developed into tribal states. The tribal leagues stretched across a wide area from the Sungari basin to the southern Korean Peninsula. They evolved into three rival kingdoms—Goguryeo, Baekje, and Silla. According to legends, Goguryeo was founded by Jumong in 37 BCE - known for their use of military horses. Baekje by Onjo (Son of Jumong) in 18 BCE – known for its agriculture, particularly with rice. Silla by Bak Hyeokgeose in 57 BCE – known for its gold jewelry. aristocratic and governed by royalty. The actual task of state building, however, was begun for FL: Foreign Language 5 | 12  HIGHER ACADEMIA INC. Department of Hospitality Management Goguryeo by King Taejo (reigned 53–146 CE) Baekje by King Koi (reigned 234–286) Silla by King Naemul (reigned 356–402) Silla then decided to conquer Goguryeo and Baekje. This unified Korea under the Unified Silla Marked by a flourishing of Buddhism and significant cultural and technological advancements. Known for the construction of temples, pagodas, and the development of the Hwarang, an elite warrior group. Goryeo Dynasty (918 - 1392) Founded by Tae-jo Wang Geon, who unified the Later Three Kingdoms. This is where Korea got it’s name. Known for its achievements in ceramics (Goryeo celadon) and the creation of the Tripitaka Koreana, movable typeface. Marked by a flourishing of Buddhism and significant cultural and technological advancements. Faced invasions from the Khitans, Jurchens, and Mongols, eventually becoming a vassal state of the Mongol Yuan dynasty. Yuan Dynasty Mongols decided to they wanted to take over Japan, and they used Korea to build ships to attack but failed due to typhoons and the Japanese Navy. Joseon Dynasty (1392 - 1897) Founded by General Yi Seong-gye, who established a Confucian state. This is where Korea got a lot of its practices such as respecting parents, elders, and wives respecting their husbands. Yang-ban was established, a class of military and civil officials who controlled the Joseon government. King Sejong or Sejong the Great (Sejong Taewang) – diversified the government, including people from all classes, strengthened the borders and has had many significant cultural and scientific advancements. King Sejong is most known for creating the Korean language system, Hangul, as previously, people had to learn Chinese script to be educated. His name was later changed to Tae-jo upon his death, it was a Chinese title used for the first emperor of a dynasty. FL: Foreign Language 6 | 12  HIGHER ACADEMIA INC. Department of Hospitality Management Experienced invasions from Japan (Imjin War, 1592-1598) and the Manchu invasions (early 17th century). Korean Empire and Japanese Occupation (1897 - 1945) Korean Empire (1897 - 1910) Declared by King Gojong in an effort to modernize and assert independence. Annexed by Japan in 1910, leading to 35 years of Japanese colonial rule. Marked by harsh colonial policies, cultural suppression, and economic exploitation. Also saw significant resistance movements, both domestic and overseas. Liberation and Division (1945) Korea was liberated from Japanese rule at the end of World War II. The peninsula was divided into two occupation zones: Soviet in the north and American in the south, eventually leading to the establishment of two separate governments. Korean War (1950 - 1953) North Korea invaded South Korea, leading to a devastating conflict involving international forces. Ended in an armistice, with the peninsula remaining divided along the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). Post-War Developments South Korea: Experienced rapid economic growth and democratization, emerging as a global economic powerhouse and vibrant democracy. North Korea: Remained a communist state under the Kim family regime, known for its isolationist policies and human rights issues. Contemporary Korea South Korea continues to be a leading global economy with significant cultural influence (e.g., K- pop, Korean cuisine, technology). FL: Foreign Language 7 | 12  HIGHER ACADEMIA INC. Department of Hospitality Management North Korea remains isolated, with ongoing tensions and occasional diplomatic engagements aimed at denuclearization and peace on the peninsula. Basic Korean Etiquette Korean culture is steeped in Confucianism, which emphasises respect for education, authority, and age. Although modern Koreans may not adhere to Confucian principles as rigidly as previous generations, these principles continue to underpin many customs and business practices. Age and status Respect for age and status are very important in Korean culture, with hierarchy affecting all aspects of social interactions. Everyone has a role in society because of hierarchy - therefore it is vital to respect it. Koreans are most comfortable interacting with someone they consider their equal. Status is largely determined by someone’s role in an organisation, which organisation they work for, which university they went to and their marital status. Business cards The exchange of business cards is an essential part of initial meetings. It allows Koreans to quickly determine their counterpart’s all-important position, title and rank. While still standing, you should politely hand a business card over with two hands, and receive one in return. Do not simply drop the card into a pocket; instead take a few seconds to review names and titles. If you are sitting down, place it on the table in front of you for the duration of the meeting. If you’re standing, then hang onto the business card until you are able to put it in your briefcase. This is better than putting them directly into your pocket. If you have a business card holder, that’s the perfect place to put the ones you receive. Don’t write on the business cards or put them in your back pocket to sit on. Business cards are an extension of a Korean worker’s position and title, and treating their business card poorly could be interpreted as a lack of respect for their position. Gift giving In Korea, the importance of a relationship can be expressed through gift giving which is always welcomed. FL: Foreign Language 8 | 12  HIGHER ACADEMIA INC. Department of Hospitality Management Note though, it is inconsiderate to give someone an expensive gift if you know that they cannot afford to reciprocate accordingly. Gifts should always be wrapped nicely in red or yellow paper, as these are royal colours. Alternatively, you can use colours that represent happiness: yellow or pink. Never sign a card in red ink or use green, white or black wrapping paper. If you’re invited to a Korean’s home then you should take gifts such as fruit, good quality chocolates or flowers and present the gift with two hands. Gifts are not opened when received and will be done so later. Korean names Korean family names are mostly of one syllable, while given names tend to have two. The family name comes first (Kim Tae-Woo, for example). Until you are on very good terms with a Korean counterpart, it is best to use the family name preceded by an honorific (such as Mr), whether speaking directly to them or about them to another Korean. In settings that call for great respect or formality, you should use your counterpart’s formal title and surname (Chairman Lee, for example). Some Koreans who have lived overseas may have adopted a Western first name, and prefer that it is used over their family name. Some also view their name as a very personal thing, so a suggestion to work on a first-name basis may be slow to be offered. Bowing and handshakes Koreans bow to those senior to them both as a greeting and a show of respect. The junior person initiates the bow, bending from the waist to an angle of between 30 and 45 degrees from vertical. A less accentuated bow is returned as acknowledgment from the more senior person. Bowing in Korea is not as pronounced as in other countries, such as Japan. Greet the highest status individual first, followed by the oldest when meeting a group of Koreans. The individual with the highest status usually enters a room first. When shaking hands, you can also bow slightly and break eye contact. Your handshake can be as firm as the other party offers, but it’s often better if it’s on the gentler side. When you avoid direct eye contact, you are signaling that the person you are shaking hands with is important. Building relationships Building relationships is an essential part of doing business in Korea. Relationships are developed through informal social gatherings and generally involve a considerable amount of eating and drinking. Such gatherings also present the opportunity for both sides to discuss business in more relaxed and friendly surroundings, including over dinner. FL: Foreign Language 9 | 12  HIGHER ACADEMIA INC. Department of Hospitality Management Dress code Appearance is very important, and Koreans tend to dress more formally than Australians. Business attire is conservative, with an emphasis on conformity rather than individual expression. Men should wear dark-coloured business suits with ties and white shirts. Jewelry for men should be kept to a minimum – a watch and a wedding ring would be fine. Women should also dress conservatively and in subdued colours. Gender equality Although gender equality is increasing, men still dominate the Korean workplace. It is expected businesswomen act in a manner that is considered refined and ‘feminine’. Don’t be too pushy Korean business people are good negotiators so be patient and gentle, but firm. Also ensure you are as dignified as possible and don’t push too hard. Expect a ‘price war’ but don’t give in easily, as Koreans are persistent and admire this quality in others. Geopolitical sensitivities Korea and Japan dispute the territorial sovereignty of several islands in the sea between the two countries. These include the small islets called Dokdo in Korea and are known as Takeshima in Japan. As discussed earlier, the two countries refer differently to the sea surrounding these islands. To maintain good business relationships with Korean stakeholders, it is wise to respect local cultures and preferences, including by ensuring you use local and appropriately referenced versions of any geographical materials (such as maps that might be used in a presentation to a Korean audience). Not observing such delicate affairs can cause insult and may lead to business relationships ceasing. Maintaining face As in other Asian societies, maintaining face is central to the way business and social relationships work. Through their social etiquette and behaviour, Koreans aim to preserve a harmonious environment in which a person’s gibun (their mood or inner feelings) can remain balanced. The best way to handle kibun is not to demand yes or no answers and to accept the need for slow consensual decision-making. Contradicting someone openly, criticising them in front of someone else or patronising them are sure ways to lose business. It is more advisable to give sincere compliments, show respect or do something that raises self-esteem. FL: Foreign Language 10 | 12  HIGHER ACADEMIA INC. Department of Hospitality Management If you’re from the Western world, you might be accustomed to fast decision-making. However, in a country like Korea, where the sense of hierarchy and collective harmony is stronger, things often move at a slower pace. Stay patient, as hard as it may be, and don’t expect any decisions to be made in the first meeting. Maybe even learn a few words of Korean, or at least keep your English as clear and simple as possible for your business partners to understand. Dining A great deal of relationship building takes place in bars and restaurants. Always accept dinner invitations as this is the Korean’s opportunity to assess your trustworthiness and whether they wish to conduct business with you. Dinner is the largest meal of the day and normally occurs between 7pm and 9pm. While it is common in other countries to extend dinner invitations to spouses, this is not the case in Korea; business entertaining tends to be reserved for the people directly involved. It is customary for the host to order the food, which all arrives at the same time. Korean food can be extremely spicy but milder dishes are also available. Wait until the host invites you to start. Do not leave chopsticks sticking into the rice bowl - place them by the side of your place setting on the chopstick rests when not in use. Use only the right hand when passing food around the table. The host is expected to pay for the meal; nevertheless, a good-natured argument over who will pay is to be expected. It is also polite for the foreigner to offer a reciprocal dinner invitation. Some other aspects of dinner etiquette to note: Koreans generally prefer to concentrate on their food while eating, and to talk after the meal is finished over coffee or tea Unless your hosts raises it first, avoid discussing business during a meal Ensure you don’t serve yourself or eat before the host initiates it Say ‘Jal-mukkes-seub-nida’, which means ‘I will eat well’, or ‘I will enjoy this meal’ – a polite show of appreciation for the food you receive and the person who cooked it. It’s akin to saying grace before eating, ‘Bon appetit’, ‘Itadakimasu’ for the Japanese, or a simple ‘Thank you for the food’. Always put food taken from a serving dish onto your plate or bowl before eating it Although chopsticks are the most predominantly used utensils (as well as spoons for soups and noodles), you may ask for forks or knives when dining in larger cities Never pick up any food with your fingers. Fruit is eaten in slices with forks. FL: Foreign Language 11 | 12  HIGHER ACADEMIA INC. Department of Hospitality Management Elder first - Like most Asians, respect for elders is a core value in Korean culture that is also practised at the dining table. Typically, the elder picks up his/her chopsticks first to start off the family meal. If you happened to be the eldest? Well, don’t keep everyone waiting! FL: Foreign Language 12 | 12