#CulturalDifferences

Are you interested in the TOPIK test? Challenge questions that will help you prepare your level.

The My Number Card is a plastic card with an IC chip that displays information such as the person's name, address, date of birth, gender, My Number, and a photograph on its face. In addition to being used as an ID for identity verification, it can also be used for a variety of services, including local government services and electronic applications using digital certificates such as e-Tax.

Why Do Koreans Eat Seaweed Soup on Birthdays? 🥣🇰🇷 Have you ever heard the expression, "너네 엄마가 널 낳고 먹은 미역국이 아깝다"? 😅 It’s a biting Korean insult that means, “Your mom’s effort of giving birth to you—and the seaweed soup she ate afterward—was wasted.” This unique saying reflects the deep cultural importance of 미역국 (seaweed soup) in Korea. 🐳The Origins of Seaweed Soup Long ago(in Goguryeo era), Koreans noticed whales eating seaweed after giving birth. Inspired by nature, they began serving seaweed to new mothers, believing it helped with recovery thanks to its high iron and calcium content. Since then, 미역국 has been a staple for postpartum care. 🍲Birthday Tradition Over time, eating 미역국 on your birthday became a tradition. It’s a way of remembering your mother’s sacrifice on the day you were born. So, every spoonful is a heartfelt tribute to the person who gave you life. Fun Expression: Eating Seaweed Soup? In Korean slang, “eating seaweed soup” (미역국 먹다) can also mean failing a test or an important task. Why? Because seaweed is slippery, just like an opportunity slipping through your fingers. Be careful, or you might end up "eating 미역국!"

Why Is “Puss in Boots” Called 🍧엄마는 외계인🍨 in Korea? Baskin Robbins Korea is famous for its creative ice cream flavors, and one of its most beloved is "엄마는 외계인" (Mom is an Alien). However, this flavor wasn’t always known by this name—it was originally called "Puss in Boots" in international markets. So, why the name change? The answer lies in a uniquely Korean marketing story. In the early 2000s, Baskin Robbins released a heartfelt commercial featuring a young child asking their father about their absent mother. The father, unable to explain the loss in words, points to the stars, implying she has become like an alien in the universe. This emotional storytelling struck a chord with viewers, and the flavor’s name was changed to "엄마는 외계인", reflecting this bittersweet narrative​ The flavor itself is a mix of three different chocolate tastes: chocolate ice cream, chocolate fudge, and chocolate chips—symbolizing richness and indulgence. Despite the light-hearted sound of the name, its story brings a sense of nostalgia and emotion to the table, making it more than just a dessert. This creative branding highlights how Korea often ties food products to emotional and cultural elements, creating experiences that resonate deeply with consumers. To see the original advertisement that inspired this iconic name, check it out here. https://youtu.be/uTgZJLh8wpM?si=KQC6uIruFuCePzn3 Have you ever tasted "엄마는 외계인" or encountered similar touching marketing stories? Let’s share and celebrate the creativity of Korean culture! 🍦

Предлоги / Prepositions