Understanding Cultural Norms in North Korea: A Beginner’s Guide
North Korea is a country that is shrouded in mystery, secrecy, and controversy. It is a country that is often in the news for all the wrong reasons, be it its nuclear missile programs, human rights abuses, and political tensions with other countries. But beyond all of this lies a vibrant and complex culture that is shaped by its geography, history, and unique political system. In this article, we aim to provide a beginner’s guide to understanding the cultural norms in North Korea.
What’s in a name?
Names hold a lot of significance in North Korea. Unlike many other countries, where people are given first, middle, and last names, in North Korea, people are given a single name that is often shared by many people in their family. This is because family names are considered to be a symbol of capitalist individualism and so are avoided. However, the name given to a child is carefully chosen, and often reflects the child’s hoped-for future or desired personality.
Manners and etiquette
Manners and etiquette are highly valued in North Korea, and it is important to be aware of them before visiting or interacting with North Koreans. North Koreans are often extremely respectful towards older people, and younger people are expected to treat their elders with great deference. For example, it is customary to bow when greeting someone older than oneself, and it is important to use polite language when speaking.
Additionally, North Koreans are extremely punctual and places like train stations and airports are often filled with people waiting for hours before their scheduled departure. It’s also important to be aware of the eating etiquette in North Korea. In North Korean culture, the host will often serve guests food and drink before serving themselves.
Gender roles
Gender roles in North Korea are often defined by traditional attitudes. Men are expected to be the primary breadwinners while women are expected to take care of the home and children. However, women also have a strong presence in the workplace and hold high-ranking positions in fields like science and engineering. Unlike many other countries, there are no gender-based restrictions on education in North Korea.
Clothing and appearance
North Koreans are often very conservative when it comes to clothing and appearance. Clothing should be modest, and it’s important to avoid wearing anything that is too revealing or flashy. In fact, North Koreans often dress in traditional modest attire. Wearing tight-fitting or revealing clothing is often considered to be disrespectful.
Conclusion
Understanding the cultural norms in North Korea can be a daunting task, but it’s essential for anyone planning to travel there or do business with North Koreans. From their punctuality and mannerisms to their conservative clothing and family naming traditions, the unique cultural practices and norms of North Korea offer a fascinating glimpse into a world that is often misunderstood and subject to misinterpretation. To truly appreciate the culture and people of North Korea, it’s imperative that we take the time to understand their values, norms, and traditions.
