Each country has its own culture and traditions. These days, Korean culture is becoming more Western, but Korea still has its own traditional culture. And yeah, if you want to become a k-pop trainee, you should respect Korean culture and learn about the culture. If you don’t follow Korean culture, people will think you’re very rude, and it will be hard for you to get chance to become a k-pop trainee.
Korea is a country which is based on the Confucian culture, and it is common for Korean people to have respect for seniors. That's why the relationship between senior k-pop singers and junior k-pop singers are so tight. On the day when k-pop idols take part in the recording of a music chart show, junior singers usually visit senior singers' waiting rooms and bow to them. Junior singers present their signed CDs too, while some senior singers who have bad character even refuse to receive it. Senior singers, especially popular singers never visit junior singers' waiting rooms or present their signed CDs to junior singers.
So, what’s the most important thing to you is that you should always behave politely in front of the elders. The bow is a traditional Korean greeting, while Koreans consider it a personal violation to be touched by someone who is not a relative or close friend. Touching, patting, or back slapping is to be avoided during interactions. In addition, direct eye contact between juniors and seniors should be avoided because it is seen as impolite or even a challenge. And remember, when Koreans shake hands, people support their right forearms with their left hand in order to show respect.
And during a meal, Koreans usually do not raise a rice bowl to their mouth. It is also unacceptable to speak of smelly or dirty things when having meals with others, while chopsticks and spoons should never be put into food, particularly rice, in a standing-up position because it resembles food offerings at a grave for deceased ancestors, and it is therefore considered bad luck.
When seniors pour alcoholic drinks, juniors should hold the cup with their right hand and the wrist of their right hand should be held lightly with their left hand. And when juniors drink alcohol, it is proper for them to turn their heads. This action pleases seniors because when someone of a higher social standing pours a drink, it is considered proper for the less significant person to turn away.
Too complicated? Of course, it is nearly impossible for you to learn Korean culture in a short period of time. When you take part in a k-pop audition, just remember that you have to always behave politely in front of the elders. And maintain an open mind. After becoming a k-pop trainee, you’ll be able to learn all the manners and etiquettes in Korea.
Source : KpopBehind
