Bruce CP #1

I met with Joel, an American, and Bo-ram, from South Korea. We had a pleasant conversation that mostly centered on the cultural differences between our two countries—specifically, the relative perceptions of alcohol, drug use, and driving.

Firstly, on alcohol, Bo-ram told me that alcoholic consumption is very prevalent in South Korea. It almost an expected social accessory at any event. This fact caused concern in me, however. If I ever go to South Korea, I might be at a disadvantage socializing, as I don’t drink. To my reassurance, Bo-ram told me that foreigners are not under as much pressure to take part, and I could always excuse myself if necessary.

We then talked on the differences in alcohol here. I commented that there is slight pressure for alcohol consumption, although the bulk of it is centered in college fraternities. It depends on your social group, in other words, and there’s large flexibility in what is considered a socially adequate level of alcohol intake. Driving under the influence of alcohol is strongly taboo, thanks in part to a media campaign in the 80s. Bo-ram replied to the effect that people in South Korea tend to take the adage “Don’t drink and drive” as more of a suggestion, than an admonition. Reckless driving is a problem there, and Bo-ram likes the drivers in Florida much better.

 

Concerning drug usage, Bo-ram informed me that Korea is extremely anti-drug, at virtually every level of the society. In contrast, in the United States, drug use is less frowned upon. In some areas, such as Colorado, the recreational use of marijuana has been legalized, and it is quickly entering the mainstream. We theorized the difference is primarily due to geography and differences in trafficking. The United States is near Mexico and South America, so it is easier to import drugs here than to South Korea. The longer border the United States has, also makes it easier for illegal trafficking.

The long swathes of area, I think, also influenced the differences in driving culture we saw. In the United States, it is more difficult to get by without a car. The wide area means cities were built further apart, and it took longer to get to any particular place. The highway program of Eisenhower, I think, made cars and driving essential parts of American culture. In contrast, as Bo-ram told me, in South Korea one often doesn’t need a car. Public transportation is easily available, and you don’t have to travel quite so long a distance to get to any one particular point in Korea.

Overall, I found our talk productive and enjoyable!