Land of the Morning Calm

It has been said that Korea is place of opposites existing closely with each other.  This is most obvious in the fact that it combines ancient Eastern tradition with modern technology.  For instance, in downtown Seoul one can find evidence of the country's long history in its palaces, city gates, and certainly its temples.  However, it is also plain to see that the country is developing very rapidly in terms of its education, technology, and industry.

Most Koreans enjoy western clothing like suits and jeans.  The dress of every day life is much like one would find in southern California or even urban Chicago.  Even so, the national costume of Korea is called the "hanbok" and it is still worn by many people during national holidays or celebrations.  According to Korean tradition, most people should wear white clothes.  Colored clothing are supposed to be reserved for those members of the upper classes of society.  It is also a known fact that rubber shoes and sandals have largely been replaced by designer shoes and sneakers.  Shoes must always be taken off when entering someone's house though.

The Korean people have descended from the Mongolian race of prehistoric Asia.  Periods of occupation brought Chinese and Japanese blood into the national gene pool.  So there is also evidence of limited cultural influence from both China and Japan.  However, despite having borrowed from these other cultures, Koreans have established and maintained their own language, culture, and distinctive customs.  Korea is a very family-oriented society at its heart.  It has been heavily influenced by the philosophy of Confucius.  This has helped to create its "family-oriented" nature, even sustaining it over time.  The Korean people have much to be proud of.... and there is still a great deal for us to learn about the Land of the Morning Calm!

Best regards in your journey of life! 

Harlan Urwiler

For more information, feel free to visit my website at:  http://www.myorientalgallery.com/.