I think to assist as Korea is maintaining its unique culture and heritage foreigners must above of all perceive themselves as guests in Korea. That is what we are... guests. And responsible guests ask permission from their host when they are unclear or unsure if what they want to do is allowed. Herein lies the difficulty: most foreigners in Korea don't speak Korean and don't understand Korean culture, which makes asking permission very difficult. I would like foreigners in Korea to recognize two things: that they are guests in Korea and that they represent their native country. It is my hope that foreigners will act in accordance to this recognition. Any disregard of Korean culture and values constitutes a step towards disrespect. This past year, I have been living in shared housing with other English and Japanese teachers. The Japanese have not been difficult to live with as they are always respectful and considerate. But the Americans, British, and Canadians are another story. On at least two occasions, young Korean women have been brought into our home by one of our foreign teachers without permission or even regard for his housemates. This attitude is disrespectful and inconsiderate to everyone where the result of such behavior can be dire.
Recently, a young Korean woman attempted suicide after being in our home
with this foreign man. The Jamie Studebaker,
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