Colombian reveals the country where public displays of affection are prohibited
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Each country is characterized by its own culture, but one comparison that stands out is the one between Latin America and Asia. Not only is the language different, but so is the cuisine and work habits.
However, there is another aspect that has drawn attention: the way South Korea handles public spaces and the rules on what is allowed and what is forbidden, such as displays of affection.
Through his social networks, the Colombian identified as '@coreanófilos', who has been living in this Asian country for several years, not only shares customs, but also talks about things that are prohibited.
This man from Bogotá has fallen so in love with South Korea that he will soon marry a Korean woman. In his latest video, he took the opportunity to tell his followers about the things that should not be done in public places and that have caught his attention during his stay in that country.
This contrast is especially striking for those who, like him, come from a Latin culture in which expressions of affection are not only not frowned upon, but, on the contrary, are a normal part of living together.
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Displays of affection are prohibited. Photo: iStock
“ Kissing in public places and things related to displays of affection in these places . This has been one of the biggest cultural differences I have noticed having a Korean girlfriend for over two and a half years,” said the Colombian.
Although he knows that cultures are very different, he never imagined that these differences would also be important when it comes to having a romantic relationship in that country, since he cannot show affection to his girlfriend in public.
She also explained that Koreans respect public spaces very much, so much so that pedestrians never run red lights. The subway is always quiet, people respect the lines and the streets are very clean. Likewise, walks with their partner are very respectful.
“The streets don’t become a stage for love and that’s something I’ve noticed is a big difference between Korea and Latin America , where sometimes we Latinos get very affectionate and to be honest this has been a big cultural difference for me,” he added.
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People are silent on the subway Photo: TikTok @coreanofilos_
While in Colombia it is normal to see couples walking hand in hand, kissing in a park or hugging while waiting for public transport, in South Korea it is not. So much so that, on some occasions, people can feel uncomfortable.
“It’s not that I wanted to be mushy all the time. However, something my girlfriend always told me, even when I just wanted to kiss her on the mouth, was time, place and occasion. Which means there is a time and a space for everything ,” he said.
Despite having lived in the Asian country for several years, it has been a bit difficult for her to adapt to this culture. However, she has understood that, although everything is different in Colombia, she cannot impose her customs, especially because this could make Koreans feel uncomfortable.
“To be honest with you, that always left me in shock, because as a good Latino, there is never a bad time for a kiss, but over time I realized that wherever you go, do as you see and I couldn't impose my culture, especially when it made them uncomfortable,” he concluded.
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