Prices: The labeled price is what you pay at the cashier. Taxes are built in and theres no $9.99 nonsense. By the way, 1 US dollar is roughly 1200 Korean won.
Tipping: Nobody tips or expects to be tipped. Including taxi drivers and waitresses. Most of the time this is a good thing, but every now and then you'd like to thank somebody for being really helpful.
Commercials: There are no commercial interruptions during television shows. Instead, all the ads are lumped together in between programs. Also, any show or program of 'national interest' has to be broadcast for free. This includes political events and important sporting events. The idea of 'pay per view' boxing matches blew their minds.
Age: Respect for elders is a big deal so age is important. I've been asked my age by just about everybody, especially labmates. Apparently I look much older since everybody seems surprised.
Vending Machines: Vending machines are as popular in Korea as in the States. The cans are much smaller, but the prices are also way cheaper. I've found this to be a great way to get rid of change. I've also seen a book vending machine in a subway, and a car parking garage 'vending machine'.
Bacon: Finally, Koreans have a healthy respect for bacon, or 'pork belly'. Below are pictures of a Korean dish called Samgyeopsal, in which really thick cut uncured bacon is cooked on a grill built into the table. The cooked pork belly is wrapped in a leaf of lettuce along with some garlic, chili paste, and any number of different side dishes. Mmm. By the way, scissors are a perfectly acceptable utensil in restaurants over here.
No comments:
Post a Comment