Thai and Korean cultures, despite being geographically distant, share a surprising number of similarities. From the importance of respect for elders to a deep-rooted love for spicy food, these commonalities provide fascinating insights into the shared values and practices. In this blog post, we will delve into seven striking similarities that link these two unique cultures.
1. Importance of Respect for Elders
Respect in Korean Society
In Korean culture, respect for elders is deeply ingrained. This principle is reflected in the language itself, where different levels of formality are used based on the speaker’s relationship with the listener. Also, Korean traditional holidays like Chuseok and Seollal are occasions when families gather to pay respects to their ancestors.
Thai Society and the Elderly
Thai culture, too, places significant importance on showing respect to the elderly. Wai, a traditional Thai gesture of respect, is commonly used when greeting elders. Moreover, many Thai people live in multigenerational households where the younger generation takes care of the older ones.
2. Love for Spicy Food
Spice in Korean Cuisine
Koreans love their food spicy. Iconic Korean dishes such as Kimchi, Tteokbokki, and various types of Kimchi jjigae all pack a fiery punch that Koreans crave.
Thai Cuisine’s Spice Factor
Just like Koreans, Thai people also have an affinity for spicy food. Thai cuisine is known worldwide for dishes like Tom Yum, Som Tam, and Pad Thai, all known for their deliciously spicy flavor profiles.
3. Group-oriented Society
Collectivism in Korean Society
Korean society is fundamentally group-oriented. This means decisions and actions are often considered within the context of the collective, rather than the individual. In social situations, harmony and consensus are highly valued.
Thai Society’s Group Orientation
Thai culture also emphasizes group harmony over individual interests. This mindset can be seen in many aspects of daily life, from meal sharing traditions to a strong sense of community.
4. Social Hierarchies and Formal Language
Hierarchy in Korean Interactions
Korean society is deeply hierarchical. The language itself, Korean, reflects this hierarchy with its system of honorifics that changes based on the listener’s age or status. In professional and social settings, Koreans are careful to use the appropriate level of formality.
Thai’s Wai and Polite Language
Similar to Korea, social hierarchy also plays an integral part in Thai culture. Respect is shown through the traditional Thai greeting, the Wai, which varies based on the social status of the person being greeted. The use of polite particles in the Thai language also reflects this respect for social hierarchy.
5. Vibrant Traditional Clothing
Hanbok: Korea’s Traditional Attire
Korean traditional clothing, known as Hanbok, is characterized by vibrant colors and simple lines. Worn on special occasions and traditional festivals, Hanbok is a symbol of Korean cultural identity.
Thailand’s Traditional Dress
Similarly, Thailand boasts beautiful traditional clothing that is rich in symbolism and history. Thai traditional dresses, made from silk and often adorned with intricate embroidery or gold accessories, are worn on special occasions, much like the Hanbok in Korea.
6. Buddhism’s Influence
Buddhism in Korea
Buddhism has been a significant part of Korean culture for over a thousand years. Many Korean traditions, artworks, and holidays have roots in Buddhism, and Buddhist temples are common sights across the country.
Buddhism in Thailand
Likewise, Buddhism, especially Theravada Buddhism, is deeply embedded in Thai culture. An estimated 95% of Thais are Buddhists, and temples, Buddha statues, and monks are central to the daily lives of many Thai people.
7. Love for Pop Culture
Korean Wave (Hallyu)
K-pop, K-dramas, and Korean movies have taken the world by storm, and Thailand is no exception. The Korean Wave, or Hallyu, has made a significant impact, and Korean pop culture is immensely popular in Thailand.
Thai Pop Culture in Korea
In a reciprocal exchange, Thai movies, music, and dramas have also been gaining popularity in Korea. Thai pop culture offers a fresh and exciting perspective, and it continues to win over Korean fans.