Korean Culture Alert- Christmas 2024

By Don Southerton

Korean Culture Alert- Christmas 2024

Christmas is a popular holiday in South Korea. I am incredibly impressed by the decorations in popular locations across Seoul city, such as Yeouido, Myeongdong, and Cheonggyecheon.

That said, it is also a distinctly Christian holiday.

As the holiday approaches, you may wish to greet Korean colleagues with a common greeting. Sae hae bok man i ba deu say yo!

Hint: When speaking, break the greeting into: sae hae bok—mahne—bah deu say yo.

Sae hae bok man i ba deu say yo! works well both in person, in a card, text, IM, or an email.

It is the best seasonal greeting for New Year’s, too.

Given the time differences, vacations, and work schedules, plan to wish Korea-based friends and colleagues a holiday greeting on Thursday, December 19 (USA/ EU time), Friday KST.

Another option is next week on Monday, December 23, USA/ EU, which coincides with Christmas Eve Day AM in Korea.

Questions on the holidays in Korea? Urgent business issues?

Dsoutherton@bridgingculture.com

https://www.bridgingculture.com

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