Age Hierarchy

Age hierarchy is one of the most important parts of Korean culture.

In Korea:

Age often affects:

Many foreigners are surprised when Koreans ask:

"What year were you born?"

"How old are you?"

These questions are usually not considered rude in Korea.

Koreans often ask age because it helps determine:

Age helps define social roles.

Korean language changes depending on age and relationship.

Example:

Hi

(Informal)

Hello

(Formal)

This is one reason age is important.

Generally:

Older person:

↓

Receives more respect

Younger person:

↓

Uses more polite language

Korean society has traditionally been influenced by:

Korean age hierarchy comes partly from Confucian traditions.

Important values:

Not always.

Among close friends:

↓

Less important

Among coworkers:

↓

Can still be important

Younger generations are becoming more flexible.

However:

Age still plays an important role.

Many foreigners say:

"Why did they ask my age so quickly?"

In Korea:

This is often normal curiosity.

Usually:

They are trying to understand the relationship.

Meeting a Korean friend

↓

They ask your age

↓

Don't be surprised

↓

Answer comfortably

↓

Conversation becomes easier

Meeting coworkers

↓

Age is discussed

↓

Language style becomes clearer

↓

Relationship develops

In many Western countries:

Age is considered private.

In Korea:

Age is often discussed openly.