Korean Culture: Clothing, Cuisine, and World Heritage Sites You Must See

by Joost Nusselder Updated:  June 19, 2022

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The traditional culture of Korea refers to the shared cultural heritage of the Korean Peninsula. Since the mid-20th century, the peninsula has been split politically between North and South Korea, resulting in a number of cultural differences. Before the Joseon Dynasty, the practice of Korean shamanism was deeply rooted in the Korean culture.

Korean culture has evolved over the centuries from a mix of influences from China, Japan, and Russia. The unique culture of Korea has been shaped by its long history and unique geography.

Let’s look at the history of Korean culture and how it evolved over the centuries.

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The Early Days of Korean History

• The history of Korea began over 500,000 years ago during the Paleolithic period.
• The early inhabitants of the Korean peninsula survived by hunting animals and collecting edible plants.
• The representative historic sites of this period include the Durubong cave site and the Komun Ruins.
• The Paleolithic people used stone tools, chipped from animal horns, to hunt and survive.

The Beginning of Settlement

• The early inhabitants of Korea started settling down around 3,000 years ago.
• They began to cultivate plants and raise animals for food.
• The historic sites of this period include the ruins of Komun and the site of the early Korean nation in Manchuria.

The Influence of Chinese Culture

• The Korean peninsula was heavily influenced by Chinese culture during the Goryeo and Joseon dynasties.
• The Korean people adopted Chinese characters and Confucianism.
• The historic sites of this period include the Gyeongju historic areas and the Hwaseong Fortress.

The Evolution of Korean Clothing: A Tale of Art, History, and Health

Korean traditional clothing, also known as hanbok, began to take shape during the Three Kingdoms period (57 BC-668 AD). The earliest depiction of hanbok can be traced back to the Goguryeo tomb murals, which show people dressed in distinct clothing surrounded by waters. The clothing features distinct setup and features that were developed to survive the harsh Korean winter and intense summer heat.

The Remarkable Features of Korean Clothing

Korean clothing is diverse and distinct, with different styles for different seasons and occasions. The hanbok is a healthy and adaptable clothing setup that reflects the Korean mindset towards health and adaptability. The clothing is also surrounded by stories that mark important anniversaries, birthdays, and celebrations.

Clothing for Celebrations and Rituals

Korean clothing is an essential part of celebratory banquets and rituals. For example, during a prayer for success, participants wear gold rings on their fingers to symbolize their commitment to achieving their goals. During a family celebration, the spouse of the person being celebrated wears a distinctive clothing arrangement to signify their support and love.

The Delicious World of Korean Cuisine

Korean cuisine is known for its wide variety of dishes, with some of the most famous including:

• Bibimbap: A dish served in a bowl with rice, vegetables, and sliced beef or seafood. It is usually topped with a fried egg and a spicy sauce called gochujang.
• Bulgogi: A dish made with thinly sliced beef that is marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, sugar, and other ingredients. It is usually grilled or pan-fried.
• Kimchi: A spicy fermented vegetable dish that is considered a staple in Korean cuisine. It is made with a variety of vegetables, including cabbage, radish, and onions.
• Japchae: A dish made with glass noodles, vegetables, and sliced beef or pork. It is usually served as a side dish or as a main course.
• Samgyeopsal: A dish made with grilled pork belly that is usually eaten with lettuce leaves and a variety of condiments.

Ingredients Used in Korean Cuisine

Korean cuisine is known for its use of fresh and natural ingredients, with some of the most common including:

• Rice: A staple in Korean cuisine, rice is usually served with every meal.
• Meat: Beef, pork, and chicken are commonly used in Korean dishes.
• Seafood: Korea’s location on the coast has significantly influenced its cuisine, with seafood playing a major role in many dishes.
• Vegetables: Korean cuisine is known for its wide variety of vegetables, including cabbage, radish, onions, and more.
• Soy sauce: A common ingredient used in many Korean dishes, soy sauce adds a rich and savory flavor.
• Gochujang: A spicy sauce made with red chili peppers, gochujang is a staple in Korean cuisine.

Special Characteristics of Korean Cuisine

Korean cuisine is known for its unique characteristics, including:

• Banchan: A set of small dishes that are served with every meal, banchan includes a variety of vegetables, meats, and other foods.
• Rice bowls: Unlike in many Western countries, rice is served in small bowls in Korea.
• Spicy flavors: Many Korean dishes are known for their spicy flavors, with gochujang and other spicy sauces being commonly used.
• Vegetarian options: Korean cuisine includes a variety of vegetarian dishes, with many inspired by Buddhist traditions.
• Influences from other countries: Korean cuisine has been influenced by other countries, including China and Japan.

Famous Korean Recipes

Some of the most famous Korean recipes include:

• Kimchi jjigae: A spicy stew made with kimchi, tofu, and pork.
• Jjajangmyeon: A dish made with noodles and a black bean sauce.
• Haemul pajeon: A seafood pancake made with scallions and other vegetables.
• Dak galbi: A spicy stir-fry made with chicken, vegetables, and gochujang.

Significance of Korean Cuisine

Korean cuisine is considered a significant part of the country’s culture and history. It is also recognized as one of the finest cuisines in the world, with multiple Korean dishes being included in official lists of the world’s best foods. Korean cuisine is also associated with certain groups and settings, with male and female groups often eating separately and certain dishes being associated with specific days or events.

Korean cuisine has significantly influenced other cuisines around the world, with many Western countries now offering their own versions of Korean dishes. Today, Korean cuisine continues to evolve and create new and exciting dishes that are enjoyed by people all over the world.

The Vibrant Festivals of Korean Culture: A Fall Celebration

Chuseok is a major harvest festival celebrated in Korea, usually in September or October. It is a time when families come together to pay respects to their ancestors and give thanks for the year’s harvest. Some of the highlights of Chuseok include:

• Preparing and sharing traditional foods like songpyeon (a type of rice cake), jeon (a savory pancake), and bulgogi (marinated beef).
• Visiting ancestral graves and performing ancestral rites.
• Participating in traditional games and activities like tug-of-war, ssireum (Korean wrestling), and archery.

Boryeong Mud Festival: A Unique Experience

The Boryeong Mud Festival is a popular event that takes place in July in Boryeong, a city on the west coast of Korea. The festival is known for its mud-based activities, which include:

• Mud wrestling, mud sliding, and mud skiing.
• Mud facials and body painting.
• Live music performances and fireworks.

The festival began in 1998 as a way to promote the local cosmetic industry, which uses mud from the Boryeong mud flats in its products. Today, it has become a major tourist attraction and draws visitors from all over the world.

Seoul Lantern Festival: A Dazzling Display

The Seoul Lantern Festival is an annual event that takes place in November in the heart of Seoul. The festival features thousands of lanterns, which are displayed along the Cheonggyecheon Stream and other parts of the city. Some of the highlights of the festival include:

• Lantern-making workshops and exhibitions.
• Nighttime parades featuring giant lanterns and performers in traditional dress.
• Interactive installations and light shows.

The festival began in 2009 as a way to celebrate the city’s history and culture. Today, it is one of the most popular events in Seoul and draws millions of visitors each year.

Korean culture is rich in history and tradition, and its festivals are a vibrant reflection of that. From the harvest celebrations of Chuseok to the mud-based fun of the Boryeong Mud Festival and the dazzling lantern displays of the Seoul Lantern Festival, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

The Artistic Side of Korean Culture: Exploring the World of Fine Arts

Korean art has a rich history that dates back to the beginning of the country’s history. The art forms are highly linked to the country’s tradition and culture. The traditional Korean art forms include:

• Painting: Korean painting is highly influenced by Chinese and Japanese styles. The materials used for painting include ink, stone, and paper. The paintings are often marked by a gentle and delicate nature, with a focus on the beauty of the natural world.

• Music: Korean musical instruments include stringed and wind instruments. The most popular musical instruments are the gayageum, a stringed instrument, and the daegeum, a wind instrument. The music is highly inspired by Chinese and Japanese musical styles.

• Pottery: Korean pottery is known for its simplicity and functionality. The most famous pottery is the white porcelain bowl, which was used for daily meals.

Contemporary Korean Art

Korean art has evolved over time, and contemporary Korean art is highly influenced by Western art styles. The contemporary Korean art scene includes a wide range of styles and techniques, including:

• Installation art: Korean artists are known for their ability to convert complex ideas into simple and direct installations.

• Performance art: Korean performance art is highly marked by repetition and a focus on the body.

• Video art: Korean video art is highly influenced by the country’s strong technological infrastructure.

Maintenance of Traditional Art Forms

Despite the influence of contemporary art, traditional Korean art forms continue to maintain their proper form and function. The maintenance of traditional art forms includes:

• Proper training: Traditional art forms require specific skills that are passed down from generation to generation.

• Limited play: Traditional musical instruments are meant to be played in a specific way, and playing them in a different way can damage the instrument.

• Basic maintenance: Traditional musical instruments require basic maintenance to ensure that they continue to produce the proper sound.

The Lush Greenery of Korean Gardens

Korean gardens have a rich history that can be traced back to the Koryo and Chosonchosonjoseon dynasties. According to recent documents, Taejo Yi, the founder of the Joseonjoseon dynasty, was a great lover of gardens and even built a garden in his palace. The Goryeo dynasty also had a tradition of building gardens in the city, which were used for various purposes such as meditation, relaxation, and entertainment.

Exploring the Beauty of Korean Gardens

Korean gardens are known for their lush greenery, intricate designs, and serene atmosphere. Some of the most popular Korean gardens include the Changdeokgung Palace Garden, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Huwon Secret Garden, which was once a private garden for the royal family. These gardens are filled with beautiful flowers, trees, and ponds, and offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Surviving Records and Visited Gardens

Although detailed records of Korean gardens are scarce, there are still many surviving gardens that offer a glimpse into the country’s rich garden culture. One of the best resources for learning about Korean gardens is the English-language version of the free encyclopedia, which provides detailed information on the history and design of Korean gardens. Additionally, many visitors to Korea make a point of visiting the country’s gardens, which serve as a gateway to understanding the culture and traditions of this fascinating country.

The Charm of Traditional Korean Houses

Traditional Korean houses, known as hanoks or joseonjip, were built and designed to withstand the harsh weather conditions of Korea. These houses were constructed with natural materials such as wood, clay, and stone, which made them sturdy and long-lasting. The roofs were designed to slope downwards to prevent snow from accumulating, and the walls were thick to keep the house warm in winter and cool in summer.

A Glimpse into Korean Culture

Korean traditional houses are not just buildings; they are a reflection of the country’s rich cultural heritage. These houses are known for their unique architectural style, which has remained unchanged for centuries. The hanoks were built during the Joseon period, which lasted from the 14th to the 19th century, and they are still standing today, providing a glimpse into the country’s past.

Exploring the Hanok Villages

One of the best places to experience traditional Korean houses is in the Bukchon Hanok Village in Seoul. This village is home to hundreds of hanoks, which have been preserved and restored to their original state. Walking through the narrow alleys of the village, visitors can see the intricate details of the houses, including the wooden lattice windows, the curved roofs, and the beautiful gardens.

A Unique Living Experience

Staying in a hanok is a unique experience that allows visitors to immerse themselves in Korean culture. Many hanoks have been converted into guesthouses, where visitors can stay and experience traditional Korean living. The rooms are decorated with traditional Korean furniture, and guests can sleep on a heated floor called an ondol. Staying in a hanok is a great way to experience the charm of traditional Korean houses firsthand.

The Religious Landscape of Korea: A Unique Blend of Traditional and Modern Beliefs

Religion has always played an important role in Korean society, with a variety of traditional beliefs and practices coexisting alongside more modern, Western-influenced religions. While the country is officially recognized as a secular state, religion continues to be an essential part of daily life for many Koreans.

The Spread of Religious Beliefs in Korea

Korea has a long history of religious diversity, with a number of different faiths and beliefs having spread throughout the country over the centuries. Some of the most famous and influential religions in Korea include:

• Buddhism: Introduced to Korea from China in the 4th century, Buddhism has played an important role in Korean culture ever since. Today, there are still many Buddhist temples and buildings scattered throughout the country, with followers practicing a variety of different traditions and customs.

• Confucianism: Another major influence on Korean culture, Confucianism emphasizes the importance of social order, respect for authority, and the pursuit of knowledge and self-improvement. While it is not strictly a religion, Confucianism has had a significant impact on Korean society and is still widely studied and practiced today.

• Christianity: Introduced to Korea by Western missionaries in the late 19th century, Christianity has become one of the most popular religions in the country. Today, there are millions of Christians in Korea, with many attending church services and participating in religious activities on a regular basis.

The Influence of Japan on Korean Religion

Japan has also had a significant influence on the religious landscape of Korea, particularly during the period of Japanese colonial rule from 1910 to 1945. During this time, many Korean religious practices were suppressed or banned, and Japanese Shintoism was promoted as the official state religion. However, after the end of colonial rule, many Koreans turned to religion as a way to achieve a sense of national identity and resistance against Japanese influence.

The Evolution of Korean Pop Culture

Korean music has a long and rich history, dating back to the Three Kingdoms period. Traditional Korean music is typically characterized by its use of specific instruments, including the gayageum, a 12-stringed zither, and the haegeum, a two-stringed fiddle. The music is typically slow and melodic, with a focus on vocals and storytelling. However, over time, Korean music has evolved to include different types of music, including Western-style pop and rock.

The Rise of K-Pop

Korean pop music, or K-pop, has become a global phenomenon in recent years. K-pop is a specific type of popular music that originated in South Korea in the 1990s. It typically features young, attractive artists who sing and dance to catchy tunes. K-pop is known for its carefully choreographed dance routines and flashy music videos. Some of the most famous K-pop groups include BTS, Blackpink, and EXO.

Conclusion

So that’s the history of Korean culture. It’s a very unique culture with a lot of influences from its neighbors. 

You can’t go wrong with Korean food, especially the Korean BBQ, and the Korean fashion is also very unique. So if you’re looking for a new culture to explore, you can’t go wrong with Korean culture.

Check out our new cookbook

Bitemybun's family recipes with complete meal planner and recipe guide.

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Joost Nusselder, the founder of Bite My Bun is a content marketer, dad and loves trying out new food with Japanese food at the heart of his passion, and together with his team he's been creating in-depth blog articles since 2016 to help loyal readers with recipes and cooking tips.