Last night Ryan and I went out for our first staff social ever. It was difficult in that only three people understood English well enough that they could have any sort of conversation with us. Despite the language barrier we learned how to eat several dishes that resembled entrails and other substances that should never be eaten. That said, most of it was at least edible and none of the dishes contained any real entrails.
Korea is renowned for its drinking culture. Initially upon learning this Ryan and I were a little hesitant as it is socially inappropriate for you to refuse alcohol if you are male. All my fears have been laid to rest due to last night. Although there is a large drinking culture, Ryan is twice the size of all of the Koreans we have met so far. They were shocked that he could consume two beers and two shots of Soju (similar taste to vodka but only half the alcohol). It's very comforting to know that Ryan can drink our employers under the table without trying. This is important because in Korean culture you are not allowed to refuse an alcoholic drink from your boss or superior.
Other odd things that we have noticed in Korea so far - we recieved a catologue for a regular store in the area. It was all in Korean and sold clothes and furniture. There are several models in the catologue but there aren't any Korean models. They are all white. In fact, all of the ad models that we have seen have been white and emaciated - more so than in Canada. There is obviously this preoccupation with being extremely thin and with white being the most beautiful skin colour. Very odd.
oops ran out of time - more oddities later!