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'Nunchi' levels: up

In Korea, some things are nonnegotiable. You’re gonna have to work hard. Education is going to be everywhere. At some stage, you’ll develop a skin care routine. Bowing is a must. Kakao is life. And then there’s “nunchi.” Literally meaning “eye measure,” it is one’s ability to understand unspoken social dynamics. And if you’re coming from Latin America or the Mediterranean region, you might find…

'Nunchi' levels: up

In Korea, nunchi, which translates to "eye measure," is a fundamental concept that demonstrates one's ability to perceive subtle social cues. This skill is crucial in navigating daily life, where much of what needs to be known is communicated silently. It can be challenging for foreigners, especially those from cultures that emphasize verbal communication, to grasp the concept.

The Korean people are known for their warmth and friendliness, but their communicative style often involves less overt verbal interaction. This can lead to misunderstandings, as some may perceive Koreans as cold or standoffish when, in reality, they simply express themselves through unspoken gestures and expressions. Understanding nunchi is essential for building rapport and fostering harmonious relationships in Korean society.

Written by urgent.news from The Korea Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.

Also reported by 1 other outlet

Read the original at koreatimes.co.kr →

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