Let’s explore some unique aspects of Korean culture that might surprise international visitors, even though they’re quite natural for locals.

 

 

1. Restaurant Call Button

 

When you visit a restaurant in Korea, you’ll likely notice a call button on the table’s edge. This button is used to call over the staff when you want to place an order or make a request. Before call buttons were introduced, people would often call out “Yogiyo!” (Hey, here!) or “Auntie!” to get a staff member’s attention. Now, it’s hard to imagine a restaurant without one! Many foreign visitors are amazed by this feature and wish they could bring it back to their own countries.

 

 

2. Banchan (Side Dishes)

 

If you travel just to nearby Japan, side dishes are typically extra and cost more, even when you order a main dish. But in Korea, no matter what you order—even a simple kimbap roll—you’ll often be served an array of free side dishes, like kimchi, pickled radish, and even soup. In many places, you can even go for seconds by either helping yourself or pressing the call button! And yes, all of these are complimentary.

 

 

 

3. Postnatal Care Centers

 

In Korea, the concept of “postnatal care” has deep roots. Today, it’s common for new mothers to stay at specialized postnatal care centers after giving birth, where they focus on recovery and rest. These centers resemble hotel suites, providing nutritious meals and snacks specially prepared for recovery. Newborns are also cared for by the staff, and mothers can enjoy massages from trained professionals to relieve swelling and promote healing. The centers also offer classes, allowing mothers to create keepsakes like baby handprints or connect with other mothers who become “mom friends” for life. Most mothers stay for one or two weeks before returning home.

 

 

4. Hangover Relief Drinks

 

Korea has an impressive variety of hangover relief drinks, essential for those who enjoy the country’s vibrant drinking culture (ever heard of “Soju” as a favorite drink?). Along with Korea’s famous drinking games, hangover relief drinks, known as “huk-chae-haeso,” have become an integral part of Korean drinking culture. Easily found in any convenience store, the most popular brands include Condition and Morning Care 808. These drinks are often taken before or during drinking sessions to ease next-day symptoms.

Young people in Korea are catching onto the ‘modisugar’ trend—mixing their own custom hangover drinks with ingredients straight from convenience store shelves! A classic combo? Mixing Powerade, Bacchus, and pear juice to create their own post-party recovery potion!

But remember, they’re just a helpful supplement—don’t overdo it!

 

 

 

 

 

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