South Korean Culture and Traditions

Dr. Cel A. Tibayan

College of Arts and Sciences
At the end of this session, students will be able to:

1. identify South Korean cultures, traditions and beliefs behind

every selection

2. reflect on South Korean culture, beliefs and traditions

South Korea
• the largest market
for plastic surgery per
capita in the world
• harvests more than 90%
of the world’s seaweed
consumption
• South Koreans are the
world’s biggest users
of credit cards since
2011
 Marriage
• Women retain their birth names after they marry
Culture and traditions

• The father and the

eldest son enjoy the
greatest respect.
 Famous People
Kim Dae Jung - pursued a
policy of reconciliation with
North Korea. In 2000, he was
awarded the Nobel Peace
Prize for his efforts.
 Famous People
Kim Young Sam became the
first civilian president of South
Korea.
Famous People
Roh Tae Woo was elected
president in 1988. South
Korea was admitted to the
United Nations in 1991 under
the President Woo’s
leadership.
Historical Places
Changgyeong Palace - a
temple in Seoul, South
Korea, sits within the
Changgyeong Palace
grounds. The palace
compound was originally
constructed in the early
1100s as the summer
residence of the Koryŏ
(Goryeo) dynasty.
Historical Places
Bulguksa Temple - one of
the most elaborate
Buddhist temples in South
Korea. The stairways
leading to the temple
entrances are symbolic of
the Buddhist journey
toward spiritual
enlightenment.
Historical Places
The Gyeongbok (Shining
Happiness) Palace in
Seoul was first constructed
in 1395 as the royal
residence of the Chosŏn
(Joseon) dynasty.
Historical Places
The Dongdaemun (Gate
of Uplifting Benevolence) is
one of five remaining gates
of the original nine
entryways to Seoul, the
capital of South Korea. The
gates were built during the
14th century by King T’aejo
of the Chosŏn (Joseon)
dynasty.