From here you can go one of two ways. You can choose to enter a depressive tailspin which will see you bolt, dig in and see out your contract then leave, or end up in hospital. On the other hand you may choose to try and adapt to Korea.
Adaptation: If you choose the latter and you succeed you'll start to view Korea more impartially, not get as annoyed with the having to get coffee in tiny little cups, and you'll begin to get out and mix with Korean people. You may still think you are better than them but things will begin to look funny rather than annoying.
Adjustment: If you stick at it long enough, learn the language, make Korean friends and start to live the way Koreans do you will become adjusted. You will have a bi-cultural or multicultural identity and a sense of belonging, trust, and sensitivity to the Korean culture.
Knowing what to expect doesn't necessarily mean you can do it. Some people are just not suited to living in an alien culture, their strengths lie elsewhere. Nevertheless, once you know what is happening to you it is time to take the next step, to do something about it.
Enroll in a language class, go to the local store and try out your rudimentary hangul, meet some more Koreans, try just 'hanging out' with them.
This is all easier said than done and it is more convenient to socialize with other foreigners where communication is easy and the norms are familiar. Doing this is also a good way to ensure that you remain in culture shock.
So now I'm off to practice what I preach - off to do some shopping and play silly games with the attendant that insists on following me around the store.
Go To Page: 1 2
