A Russian woman talks about the peculiarities of life in South Korea, which is just space. Traditions and features of South Korea (11 photos) Important features of traveling to Korea


In 2010, the capital of South Korea, Seoul, 10 million, received the honorary title of capital with the best design. This city, whose age is confidently approaching two and a half thousand years, is really very beautiful and every year attracts crowds of tourists from all over the world.

The Koreans themselves are an amazing people who have managed to preserve many unique traditions, despite the onslaught of globalization erasing any national differences. Many of these traditions and features may seem very, very specific to European tourists coming to the country.

1. Toilet humor is very popular in South Korea.


Jokes, funny and not so funny, about the toilet in South Korea can be found at every turn. The process of defecation is considered so funny that an entire open-air park is dedicated to it with all kinds of highly realistic sculptures and installations. It is not uncommon to see biscuits and other sweets shaped like poop in pastry shops, and gift shops cover this topic in great detail. None of the locals are outraged or shocked. No one gets sick of such jokes. Everyone is having fun.

2. Friendly hugs.


Europe has long been completely indifferent to kissing, hugging and other violent displays of affection in public places, if this is done by representatives of different sexes. If a man does the same with a man or a woman with a woman, then they will be perceived only as a homosexual couple. South Korea has its own logic in this respect. Caresses of young people of the opposite sex in public places are considered the height of indecency, but friends of the same sex can walk holding hands, sit on each other's laps, gently touch each other's hair - and this will not be considered a manifestation of disrespect for society or a sign of non-traditional sexual orientation .

3. Plastic surgery is literally sweeping South Korea.


Today, South Korea has the fame of one of the leaders in the number of plastic surgeries per capita. There are so many good plastic surgeons here that even foreigners come to see them, combining exciting tourism with changing their appearance. In addition, prices in Korea for such services are much lower than in Europe and the United States, so the business is only gaining momentum every year.

One of the most common surgeries in South Korea is eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty). Both girls and boys, almost without hesitation, risk their health and go under the surgeon's knife only to acquire a "European" eye shape.

4. Motels for love pleasures.


For young people from decent families in this country, any manifestation of tender feelings in public places is considered unacceptable. Parental control in families is also unusually strict. Nothing can be done - this is a tribute to centuries-old traditions. But the Koreans came up with a very cunning way to combine both external observance of Puritan traditions and modern emancipation (or, as retrogrades call it, “licentiousness and moral degradation”). Young couples go to kiss not on the benches of the nearest park, as they do in Europe, but in mini-motels, of which there are a great many in South Korea.

5. K-Pop music


K-Pop is the name given to Korean pop music. It has quite a few specific features and is very popular not only in South Korea itself, but also in other Asian countries. Performers gather an audience of many thousands at concerts, and fans often experience real tantrums up to fainting.

Groups working in this musical genre usually consist of several boys and girls between the ages of 16 and 24. K-Pop's musical compositions combine rhythm and blues, hip-hop and electropop, and the lyrics are often not in Korean, but in English. There are so many fans of this music that it is already considered a full-fledged international youth subculture.

6. Ajumma.


Ajumma is the name given to older ladies in South Korea. One of the specific features of Korean culture is the extremely respectful attitude of the younger members of society towards the elders. At the same time, ladies of advanced age acquire a surprisingly high status and can literally do whatever they want. Ajumma use this very actively. In crowded public transport, they, as they say, “break through” - after all, everyone must give way to them, so why stand on ceremony. They consider it their duty to make loud remarks about the behavior of all those who belong to the younger age category, and if young people have the audacity not to listen to their words, then the ajumma may even spit on them. And no one dares to object or be indignant.

7. Alcohol abuse.


In South Korea, this evil has truly cyclopean proportions - the country chronically ranks first in the consumption of strong drinks. In the evening, after the end of the working day, the streets of cities are literally clogged with citizens barely able to stand on their feet. Drunks behave, however, extremely peacefully and decently, and brawls occur extremely rarely. Some bring themselves to such a state, resting after hard work, while for others, late feasts with irrepressible libations, surprisingly, are a kind of continuation of the working day. According to Korean "corporate culture", if the boss invites his subordinates to drink after work, then it is absolutely impossible to refuse. So the recruits have to drink first by force, and then by irrepressible desire.

8. Matching outfits are a Korean youth trend.


If the meeting of several fashionistas in exactly the same outfits in Europe is perceived as a fiasco, then in South Korea this is a popular trend. Young people deliberately try to dress up as twins. This is how they show everyone else that they are good friends. Boutique owners are well aware of this fashion fad and do their best to help their customers to purchase exactly the same sets of clothes.

9. Incredible speed of food delivery from restaurants.


The delivery of various food in all developed countries works very well, but in South Korea it has been brought to a virtuoso level. The customer barely has time to put down the phone, as the courier who delivered the treat is already ringing at the door. You also don’t have to worry about returning dishes to the restaurant at all - after the meal is over, they simply put them out the door. A little later, the courier will call in and pick up the dirty dishes without any questions.

10. Ultra-short skirts.


Miniskirts today, it would seem, can not surprise anyone, but the residents of South Korea still manage to do it. For many young women, they are so short that when fashionistas walk up the stairs, they have to cover themselves with handbags or newspapers so as not to disturb passers-by too much. At the same time, the Korean public treats such outfits quite calmly. But if a girl decides to wear even a very moderate neckline, then she cannot avoid disapproving glances and offensive remarks. And if she, being in such an outfit, is not lucky enough to run into someone from the Ajumma, then she will not only be loudly cursed with the last words, but also spit after her.

South Korea is a country with a rich and unique culture, many of the nuances of which foreign visitors should know. The national characteristics of South Korea are manifested in various areas of everyday life.

Korean cuisine

The nation is rightfully proud of its cuisine. So what should be taken into account?

Kimchi, which are fermented vegetables with the addition of a large amount of spices, has long been considered an attribute of the culture. Most often, Chinese cabbage is used to make kimchi, but sometimes kohlrabi leaves, eggplant, cucumbers, and radishes are preferred. Without this dish it is impossible to imagine a single meal!

Koreans are very fond of rice, which they can eat for breakfast, lunch, dinner, weekdays and holidays. However, remember that in South Korea it is still customary to eat rice with a spoon, and the bowl should not be brought to the mouth!

Koreans can eat dog meat. Such delicacies are respected by men and are usually ordered in the summer. State authorities seek to ban restaurants from using dog meat for cooking, because the state must be rehabilitated in the eyes of the entire civilized world.

The national alcoholic drink is soju, which resembles vodka, but is made from grain or potatoes. Please note that in South Korea, alcohol can only be served with a meal.

Important Features of Traveling to Korea

South Korea is a densely populated country, because most of its territory is mountains. It is between the numerous mountains that small plains with large cities are located.

You need to be extremely careful: you should not count on being asked to step aside or give way to you, Koreans can simply push you away, and getting to the counter in any store, crossing the street, using public transport can be somewhat difficult.

You can visit South Korea and decide on a long hike in the mountains. This is especially true if you are friends with a Korean, because hiking is something of a national hobby.

Patriotism and attitude to the motherland

Koreans truly love their country and are ready to fight for its happy future. Be prepared for the fact that demonstrations on the streets of cities are a typical sight.

For a long time, Korean culture was in the shadow of Japan and China. Indeed, Koreans have learned a lot from their illustrious neighbors. However, the development included three stages: partial adoption, transformation in one's own way, and integration with local customs. Recently, Europe and the USA have become such a “donor”. The country continues to be filled with a synthesis of cultures, acquiring a new modern look.

For example, Korean music has a lot in common with Japanese and Chinese music. But she has a triple rhythm, and her “colleagues” have a double rhythm. In traditional painting, as in calligraphy, Chinese motifs are strong. But the paintings are distinguished by expression and bright colors. Pottery was borrowed from China, but in Korea it received an in-depth and expanded development. Products began to be made more elegant, giving them a delicate bluish-green color.

Communication with Europe and America influenced clothing. Before that, they wore hanbok: for men - a jacket and pants, for women - a blouse and a skirt. Today, this national dress is worn only on holidays, but is still called the “face” of the people. The modern culture of Korea has also changed regarding wedding traditions. Now the ceremonies are held in a church or wedding palace, and then the traditional part with classic outfits follows.

Close interweaving of religion and culture of Korea

Religion had a strong influence on the traditions of the country. In the early period, people worshiped Heaven and animals - this is how totemism was born, and myths arose. This belief became the basis for shamanism, which significantly influenced early culture. During the Ancient Joseon period, people believed in ancestral spirits, sky, water, and the sun. The culture of South Korea still conveys echoes of these beliefs.

Koreans believe that the soul does not go to another world immediately, it stays next to its family for some time. Several thousand shamans still practice in the modern country. One of the simplest shamanistic rituals is rubbing the palms for good luck before a trip or to improve health.

The behavior of the inhabitants largely determines Confucianism, enriched with the national spirit. A strict hierarchy is used. Already at the first meeting, they ask about age, education, marital status and position. This is how one's own place is determined in relation to a new acquaintance.

Society is based on the principle of five relationships: there are certain norms of behavior between the subjects and the ruler, spouses, father and son, old and young, friends. Many Koreans believe that the state is successful thanks to this approach. Only 1% of the population will say that they profess Confucianism, but its principles largely determined the habits, traditions and style of behavior.

Buddhism also influenced the culture of Korea. Its echoes can be found in the peaceful and non-aggressive nature of the inhabitants, a deep philosophical attitude towards life and people. Buddhism entered China in the 4th century CE. e. During the Goryeo Dynasty, it was the official religion, so it influenced all areas. Thanks to Buddhism, thousands of temples, icons, statues, and literary works appeared. Religion influenced painting, architecture, music. The most famous historical monument is Seokguram Cave Temple. In the spring, Buddha's Birthday is still celebrated - noisy and bright.

Taoism also had its influence. Like other religions, it was changed to Korean. Taoism is reflected in a strong desire for longevity, happiness and health. In everyday life, its symbolism is still used. For example, hieroglyphs symbolizing longevity and happiness are applied to household items.

Origins of national traditions

The cultural history of Korea is intertwined with the Korean peninsula, but its very first inhabitants are not considered the ancestors of the Koreans. The origin of the nation is associated with the Neolithic era. Many features of culture were laid down in ancient times. The formation of the nation took place under the constant threat of invasion, and this was also reflected in the traditions.

Thanks to hunting and gathering, a belief in animals and spirits arose - this is how totemism appeared. Its reflection is in the myths that have survived to this day. A surge in development brought the appearance of bronze, which came from Manchuria. Later, settlers came from the north, thanks to whom the culture of Korea was enriched - they surprised with unusual ceramics and success in production. The era of the Iron Age came from China - coins, smooth ceramics, metal mirrors, elegant daggers, figurines appeared.

Later, development took place independently, but with significant influence from neighboring China. Class stratification played an important role: wealthy people wore luxurious jewelry and used expensive items. This time is associated with the technology of creating household items from bronze, which could compete with the Chinese.

Way of development

Since the appearance of the Three States, which later united into one, an uninterrupted history of Korean culture begins. Initially, the people still believed in spirits, were confident in their responsibility for different directions. Later, Confucianism appeared, which was adhered to regardless of religion - it regulated relations between people.

Then Buddhism came from China, and society favorably accepted the religion. Only in Silla (in one of the three states) the new trend was treated with hostility. But through the efforts of the ruler, it was approved as another national religion. Buddhism had a positive impact on architecture - they began to build temples and pagodas that served as educational centers. Hieroglyphic writing began to spread, which was also borrowed from China. It was adapted: conversations were conducted in their native language, and hieroglyphs were used to record it. Since Chinese and Korean belong to different language groups, the task was not easy.

"Golden Age" of Korean Culture

The culture of South Korea received significant development during the unified Silla (7th-10th centuries). For two centuries, states have not touched war or other external conflicts. This made it possible to focus on the development of culture. Royal palaces and Buddhist temples appeared in the capital. Some famous monuments (such as Seokguram Cave Temple and Bulguksa Temple) were created by craftsmen who had deep religious beliefs. The role of Confucianism increased. Achievements can be considered casting of copper bells, the oldest printed edition, a cave temple and the work of the first famous poet - Choi Chhiwon.

The Koreans saved the idea of ​​a national-cultural community, embodying it in the 10th century - the state of Korea appeared. For the first time, the country became united, items began to be produced to glorify the country in the Far East. Goryeo was famous for its celadon-coated porcelain, bronze mirrors, and vases. Despite the dependence on the Mongol dynasty, the country managed to preserve its traditions. However, many monuments of art were destroyed, craftsmanship was lost.

Peter's Era in Korean

The next turning point occurred in the 15th century. This is a period of intensive development of Korean culture - it is compared with the era of Peter I in Russia. In the XV century. created the Korean alphabet - there was almost universal literacy. Already in our time it was included in the list of masterpieces of world heritage. Koreans consider language an art form and are proud of its script. Positive changes have affected the arts, literature, printing and music.

There was even a special department at the court that helped organize the life and work of artists. The first acquaintance with the achievements of European culture took place. With the help of Chinese sources, scientific books of Europe were translated. This gave impetus to the development of various sciences: astronomy, geography, history.

At the turn of the XVI-XVII centuries. Christianity began to penetrate the country - representatives of the ruling class were interested in it. Later, conflicts arose with the Europeans, and the policy of "closing the borders" was intensified. The state maintained close ties only with China and traded with Japan. The locals rejected Western culture.

Culture becomes mass

In the XVII-XVIII centuries, social and economic changes took place, the status of the common people increased. The culture of South Korea has become more mass. Singing stories (pansori) became widespread, and folk tales began to be written down. The same trends touched painting - artists began to depict the area and scenes from the life of ordinary people, and in calligraphy their own style was invented.

Western canons

In Korea, the period from the 17th century to the middle of the 19th century is considered "the transition to a modern society." One of the important points is the emergence of modern agricultural technology. Productivity increased, which gave impetus to the growth of cities. As a result, the demand for artisan products has increased. The production of fabrics, the creation of metal utensils began to develop.

In the 19th century, the idea gained popularity that the experience of technology and production should be adopted from the West. But at the same time it is necessary to maintain the ideological basis of social life. There was even a slogan: "Eastern way, Western technology." The influence of Europe was still there, but the borrowings were adapted to local conditions.

A test for the culture of a nation

Features of the culture of Korea were tested during the Japanese colonization. The conquerors declared the Korean language and traditions only a branch of Japanese. In 1937, the Korean language was banned from use in government offices. Japanese was called "native" language. Koreans were forced to give up their names and call themselves in the Japanese manner. Most of the publications were banned and they were not even allowed to wear national clothes. It was an era of humiliation of the nation, and Korea still cannot fully forgive Japan for this. Indeed, as a result of the confrontation, the country was divided into two parts.

Cultural life of the country today

One of the echoes of the past, which is intertwined with the present, is the holidays. In the history of Korean culture, an important place is occupied by the Lunar New Year and Chuseok, which traditionally continue to be celebrated. There are other holidays associated with the cult of nature, agrarian business or labor activity.

Customs fill the life of Koreans and continue to be passed down from generation to generation. The influence of religion on culture turned out to be very strong and remains a powerful stimulus for its development and preservation. Shamanism, Confucianism and Buddhism are closely intertwined, exerting a creative influence on traditions. Culture is not only rich, but also resilient. Thanks to borrowing, she only enriched herself. Residents are very fond of the country and its features, it is a matter of national pride.

Cultural achievements

The culture of South Korea is at a high level, and confirmation of this can be seen in various pieces of art. Delightful products made from celadon, ceramics with a grayish-greenish glaze are famous all over the world. Porcelain items with blue patterns are interesting. In painting - paintings in ink on silk or mulberry paper. Folk and court dances (chonjaemu, ilmu) were invented . The national hanbok costume is also impressive, which is distinguished by smooth lines. Women's outfit - with rich embroidery and a luxurious bright skirt. In ancient times, norige decoration was invented, which was attached to clothing. Such decor was selected depending on the social status or season. Unusual architectural monuments have been preserved:

  • Gyeongju Astronomical Tower of Silla Capital.
  • Seokguram Cave Temple.
  • Buddha statue of the 8th century.
  • Ancient Gyeongbokgung Palace.

These objects are famous throughout the world and are considered the national landmarks of South Korea. The modern culture of Korea is also original gardens. The principles of shamanism play an important role in their creation. Creating gardens, local craftsmen try to avoid anything artificial. Koreans try to bypass nature itself, giving the green corners a natural look. One example is Poseokjeon, built back in the Silla era.

The cultural component of a particular country is a very serious subject for study, especially before traveling. Each nation has its own traditions and customs, its own prohibitions and beliefs. The same gesture in different countries can be interpreted in completely different ways, and if you can put up with comical situations, no one will tolerate insults from visitors. If you are planning to spend your vacation in, it's time to get to know its culture.

Fundamentals of South Korean culture

In 1948, one large state of Korea was divided into the DPRK and the Republic of Korea. After that, the culture of each country began to develop in different ways, but they have the same origins and roots. In particular, the behavior of society is based on the principles of Confucianism, which were developed back in China, in 500 BC.

Koreans instill in their children love and respect for parents, family and those in power from a young age. Great importance is attached to such concepts as justice, honesty, humanism, peace and education. In the modern culture of South Korea, on this basis, a model of behavior has developed, called the Rule of Five Relationships. In particular, it provides for certain norms in communication between father and son, husband and wife, older and younger generations, ruler and subject, between friends.

Tourists who come to rest in this country often fall out of this pattern of behavior. Therefore, sometimes it seems that Koreans are rude and ignorant. In fact, until you enter into one of the types of relationships, you may simply not be noticed.

It is because of the Rule of Five Relationships that Koreans can sometimes ask somewhat uncomfortable and personal questions. But if a local resident is interested in your marital status or age, do not rush to be rude in response - he is just trying to determine what rules to interact with you.


Separate manifestations of the culture of South Korea

Understanding the fundamental principles of building relationships between Koreans, it will be interesting to consider more specific manifestations of their behavior patterns. In particular, these are:

  1. Respect for elders. In Korea, it is accepted that young people and those who are below in rank are obliged to follow the wishes and instructions of their elders without any objections.
  2. attitude towards marriage. Koreans consider marriage to be the most important event in life. Divorce, on the contrary, is interpreted as a huge and indelible shame.
  3. Names. Among residents of the CIS countries, it is a common practice for a wife to take her husband's surname. In South Korea, they adhere to other traditions - the spouse retains her last name, but their common children inherit the father's family name.
  4. Public quarrels. Angry and offended women are everywhere. Such a mixture is especially explosive if such a woman is also elderly. In South Korea, there are quite often such types of grandmothers who can express their dissatisfaction not only verbally, but also physically. No matter how insulting it may be, you cannot react to it, even if you are provoked. It's best to just step aside.
  5. Handshake. People who are equal in status to each other, or who are on friendly terms, use the form of a handshake that is familiar to everyone. But if one of them is lower in rank, or younger, then he is obliged to shake the outstretched hand with both hands. Quite often, the greeting is supplemented with a bow. The older and the higher the status of a person, the deeper they bow to him.
  6. The boss is always right and cannot be denied. Surprisingly, this rule applies to almost all areas of life. You can't even refuse an offer to drink. Therefore, if the boss is an alcoholic, it is easier to change jobs than to give a refusal.

Traditions of South Korea

The culture and traditions of South Korea are closely intertwined, because one follows from another. However, with the passage of time and globalization moving by leaps and bounds, any open society is subject to one or another change. But there are fundamental beliefs that are honored at all times. In relation to South Korea, such traditions, customs and are especially distinguished:

  1. Chere, or rite of remembrance of ancestors. According to Korean beliefs, after death, the soul of a person goes to another world only after a change of 4 generations. And throughout this period, he is a full member of the family, who, according to legend, takes care of and protects the whole family from bad weather.
  2. Hanbok, or traditional clothing. It is in her that Koreans put on such solemn days as the Lunar New Year, Harvest Day, or the marriage ceremony.
  3. In relation to marriage, Koreans have skillfully created a model that combines both modern trends and traditional rites. Today, the Korean wedding is divided into two parts: first, there is a ceremony in the Western European style, with a white dress, veil and tuxedo for the groom, and after the newlyweds put on traditional outfits and go to a special room for dinner with their parents.
  4. Sollal, or Lunar New Year. This holiday is celebrated on the first day of the lunar calendar. It is customary to meet with the family, remembering the ancestors, preparing special dishes and dressing up in hanbok.
  5. Chuseok, or Harvest Day. Koreans devote the fifteenth day of the eighth month according to the eastern calendar to the remembrance of their ancestors and gratitude to the gods for food.

Note to the tourist

In order not to get into trouble when communicating with a Korean, or not to incur the wrath of representatives of the order, a tourist in South Korea should remember a few rules:

  1. Follow the gestures. Calling a person palm up or beckoning with a finger is considered offensive.
  2. When entering a Korean home, one should take off one's shoes, but it is bad manners to walk on the floor without socks.
  3. Public displays of affection between a couple, whether kissing or hugging, are considered indecent in Korean society, but the display of friendly relations is quite acceptable.
  4. Smoking in public places is strictly prohibited, and the enforcement of this rule is closely monitored by the police.
  5. You can’t pierce food with chopsticks and leave them directly on the plate, especially at a party - the hostess may take this as an insult.

South Korea is a single nation state. 99.9% of the population are Koreans and only 0.1% are Chinese, Filipinos, Thais and Americans combined.

The official language is Korean, but the use of English is also widely used, but the reviews of tourists say the opposite. According to them, finding hotel employees who can communicate in English is not an easy task, which makes communication difficult in many ways. This shortcoming can easily be offset by the general benevolence of the people of South Korea, which is rooted in the high piety of the people and in their knowledge of their unique national culture and history.

Ancestors of Koreans

In particular, according to archaeological research, several thousand years ago, the Korean peninsula was inhabited by people from the regions of present-day Altai. These were the proto-Altaians, whose descendants the current Koreans consider themselves to be, but the predominant religion, Confucianism, spread relatively recently, if it can be considered a religion at all. For Koreans, it is rather a way of life and a set of social and ethical rules, such as, for example, the correspondence of each person to his place in society, the subordinate depends on the boss, the son - on the father.

Holidays in South Korea

South Korea loves to celebrate holidays. Among them, Buddha's Birthday, celebrated in May and reminiscent of Christian Christmas and Remembrance Day of those killed in the Korean War in the early sixties of the last century, with a siren calling for a Moment of Silence. A characteristic feature is the celebration of the New Year twice! According to the solar calendar on the night of December 31 to January 1 and according to the lunar calendar, in February. The celebration of the New Year celebration is held exclusively with the family at the festive table with a large number of treats of national cuisine, since according to Korean beliefs, the spirits of dead ancestors are present at the holiday along with the living.
A special place among Korean holidays is given to the birthday of the child and weddings. Both holidays are full of symbolism. For example, before taking a girl as his wife, a young man should give her mother a gift in the form of a baked goose, as a sign of sincere intention for a long and happy family life. Korean weddings are so solemn and grandiose that to demonstrate them, the National Tourism Organization of South Korea organizes theatrical performances, exactly copying the wedding ceremony.

If you are lucky enough to receive an invitation to the celebration of a real wedding or to the birthday of a child celebrated when he reaches one year of age, be sure to praise the mistress of the house for the prepared treats. Your praise will be appreciated!

Life of Koreans

Koreans are unpretentious in home improvement, the exceptions are hotels for foreigners. The rooms in their houses are multifunctional and can serve alternately as a bedroom or a dining room. They prefer to eat while sitting on the floor, so from the appointment of a room at a specific time, they bring either a dining table or a mattress. By the way, the floor in the house is concrete or stone. Heating is carried out by supplying heated air or hot water to the underground space. This method of heating a room is called ondol, which means “hot stone” in Korean.

Alcohol and Koreans

Regrettably, the versatility of the rooms is practical in light of the progressive spread of alcoholism in South Korea. Almost all able-bodied Koreans, once a month, and many more often, gather for a corporate feast, accompanied by drinking alcoholic beverages. Such feasts are called hoesik, they also have their own traditions. Toasts follow one after another, they cannot be missed, no one can refer to a sober orientation. The respectful attitude of the younger generation towards the older one, the expression of which is also characteristic of the Koreans, is fully manifested here. If the elder pours for the younger, then the younger should hold the glass with both hands, and if the younger pours for the older, then he holds the bottle with both hands. The same respectful body language is used in the daily greeting. If the elder and the younger shake hands, the younger shakes the elder's hand with both hands.

Sign language

Sign language in South Korea, in general, carries its share of symbolism and hidden meanings. Among Koreans, as well as among us, it is not customary to call each other with a characteristic movement of the index finger. With this gesture, the Koreans call the dogs. And if they really call someone, then lowering their palm, they wave it slightly, while moving their fingers.
South Korea is a wooded and mountainous country, which makes a big bet on the development of ski tourism and, in particular, on attracting tourists from Russia. So for several seasons in a row, the National Tourism Organization of South Korea has held and is holding ski festivals with the characteristic name Ru-Ski. During their holding, tourists are allowed free use of ski equipment and ski lifts. Russian-speaking staff is involved in the service.