Korea2Global

Small talk is an essential part of social interactions in many Western cultures, but it plays a much smaller role in other parts of the world. In Australia, engaging in small talk is a daily norm, used to break the ice, establish rapport, and create a friendly atmosphere. In contrast, Koreans tend to value more direct, meaningful communication, often skipping small talk altogether. This cultural difference is rooted in history, social structures, and linguistic nuances. In this article, we explore why small talk is so prevalent in Australia but much rarer in Korea, and what this reveals about the two cultures.

Beer is a universal language, but how people enjoy it varies dramatically across cultures.  In South Korea and Australia, beer drinking is deeply ingrained in social life, yet the styles, occasions, and preferences couldn’t be more different.  While Korea is dominated by crisp, commercial lagers often paired with social gatherings and food, Australia boasts a thriving craft beer scene with an emphasis on variety and individuality.  Let’s dive into the fascinating differences in beer culture between these 2 countries. 1. Beer Selection: Commercial vs. Craft South Korea: The Land of Light Lagers In Korea, beer is synonymous with mass-produced lagers such as Cass, Hite, and Terra—light, easy-drinking, and typically served ice-cold.  These beers are designed to be refreshing, pairing well with classic drinking foods like fried chicken (chimaek, a combination of “chicken” and “maekju” (beer)) and spicy bar snacks.  Craft beer is gaining popularity, but commercial...