The other side of the world: A Brazilian perspective on South Korea

 

Art painted by Edmundo Sussumu Fujita

   

    The other side of the world:

    A Brazilian perspective on South Korea

 

  The main differences between South Korea and Brazil starts with the distance between the two countries. It is necessary to travel across the world to reach South Korea from Brazil. The journey can take up to two days to arrive in the land of “Gangnam Style.” The farther you travel from your home country, the more you will gain cultural enrichment. That was one reason why I have chosen to come to Korea.

  Culture shock happens in the first moment when we arrive in a different country. The language, behavior, architecture, style, food, and the way of living life can be quite different. Many Brazilians have the impression that Korean people are too serious. Yes, they are; however, from the moment I stepped onto Korean territory, I was treated with many smiles and experienced the wonderful Korean sense of humor. Even if many Koreans cannot speak English properly, they are always willing to try and help you. I felt at home. It is true that Koreans are serious; nonetheless, they are also very welcoming and gladly receive foreigners in their country.

  Brazil is a pluralistic country, full of culinary contrasts. It is very for common rice to be prepared with garlic, onions, and salt. It is a rule in all Brazilian homes. I have been used to that flavor since I was a child. Today, I’m twenty two years old - or twenty four as Korean age says – and have encountered the Korean rice without salt, no seasoning; sticky, but healthy. However, the biggest obstacle to a Brazilian here is the spicy food. We're not used to so much pepper on the food. Every time when I try to eat kimchi, I want to cry. The cutlery is also a test for a western person here. I was familiar with forks and knives. Not anymore. However, I'm trying to get used to chopsticks every day and I’m sure food adaptation will happen soon.

   Why come to South Korea to study?

  Education in Korea is an example for the whole world: An educational model that should be followed by all countries. According to the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) 2010, students from South Korean were in fifth place in the competition that tested their knowledge in math, science, and reading. When the subject is studying away from home, Korean universities are also a destination for Brazilian students. Thais Lima is from Brasilia, the capital of Brazil, and she has been living in Daejeon for 10 months. This student came to Chungnam National University to participate in the graduate program (KGSP) offered by the Korean government. “It’s different when you have the chance to experience it on your own. There are a lot of differences with my country's culture, but Koreans make it so comfortable to adapt to life here that I had fewer problems than I expected. Being far from my family makes it hard, but even though they're known as a reserved people, wherever I go I feel like I’m at home, because they receive us with open arms and kind hearts. I hope I can stay here more,” says Lima.

  The greater significance of traveling is learning. The intellectual evolution and the understanding of a different community. Maybe I have to pay for excess baggage when I return to my country, because I feel my luggage will be much heavier, full of learning, stories, memories, and many lessons that this amazing country taught me; lessons that I will carry with me forever.

 

 

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