Pinoy Sarang

Why Korea’s famous hurry-hurry culture is only one side of a society built on discipline, courtesy, and human connection. By Majella Pagayon | June 14, 2026 Ask almost any foreigner about South Korean culture, and one phrase will likely come up sooner or later: Ppalli-ppalli (빨리빨리). Literally translated, it means “hurry, hurry” or “quickly, quickly.” It is a phrase that has become deeply woven into Korea’s national identity. You can see it in the speed of food deliveries, the efficiency of public transportation, the pace of business, and even the way people walk through crowded city streets. To newcomers, it can feel overwhelming. Sometimes it seems as if everyone is racing against an invisible clock. Yet after more than two decades of living in South Korea, I have learned that ppalli-ppalli is only part of the story. Behind the speed lies another side of Korea—one defined by respect, consideration, and surprisingly thoughtful human relationships. Understanding Korea’s “Ppalli-Ppalli” ...

A closer look at the traditions of language, etiquette, and social relationships that continue to shape everyday life in Korea. By Majella Pagayon | June 14, 2026 One of the biggest cultural surprises many foreigners experience in South Korea happens within the first few minutes of meeting someone. "How old are you?" The first time a Korean asked me that question shortly after we met, I paused. Coming from a different cultural background, it felt surprisingly personal. Ironically, many Koreans themselves would agree that directly asking someone's age can be considered impolite or overly personal—especially in formal situations, professional settings, or when speaking to women. Yet despite this, the question remains remarkably common in everyday Korean life. Why? Because in Korea, age is often used as a shortcut for determining social relationships and choosing the appropriate level of language and etiquette. It is a cultural contradiction that fascinates many foreigners: ...

As South Korea faces demographic challenges, many are asking whether children who grow up Korean in every way should remain foreigners on paper. By Majella Pagayon | June 14, 2026 What makes someone truly belong to a country? Is it their passport? Their parents' nationality? Or is it the place where they grew up, went to school, made friends, and built their identity? These questions are becoming increasingly important in South Korea as the country continues to navigate the realities of globalization, immigration, and a rapidly changing population. One person who has reflected deeply on this issue is Dr. Mohammad Nazmul Hasan , widely known as Nadim, a former international student who earned his PhD from the Korea National University of Transportation (KNUT). His story highlights not only the opportunities South Korea offers to talented individuals from around the world but also the challenges many foreign residents continue to face when trying to build long-term lives ...