This article was written by a guy living in Japan, but I’ve witnessed many of the same behaviors in Korea.  My “favorite” is how even on a crowded subway many Koreans don’t want to sit next to the scary waeguk.  Or maybe it’s just because I’m fat.

Having said that, I really believe the writer needs to take a chill pill.  Your experience in Korea, Japan, or anywhere else you might travel (or live) will be enhanced if you learn to just go along and get along.  Why choose to be offended by something that doesn’t really matter? Are these “microagressions” really cultural?  Perhaps, but Lord knows, I’ve seen tourists in the U.S.A. treated pretty rudely.

Back when I was hiring people to work for me in Korea I noted that about 70% of the new hires loved Korea and wanted to stay beyond the initial two year tour of duty.  The others hated living there and couldn’t wait to get out.  And most of their complaints were really about those trivial things that could have just as easily been ignored.  There is so much to love about Korea and Koreans and the rich and unique culture.  You just have to be open to the experience, good and bad.

The only thing that ever caused me to lose my temper in Korea were rude taxi drivers.  But then again, I had issues with the trike drivers in the Philippines, cabbies in NYC, and people in Philadelphia generally.  But the Koreans I got to know and call friends have always been gracious, warm and generous.

Anyway, the article is worth a read.