Cultural Adaption of Koreans Residing in Hungary

Changes in Daily Life and Customs

Abstract

The present paper explores the social changes embedded in the lives of Korean expatriates in Hungary. Since this is a relatively new phenomenon, mostly produced by the intensive economic cooperation between the two countries in the past decade, the topic has been insufficiently researched so far.

According to my preliminary findings, the population of Koreans has been increasing thanks to the significant investments made in Hungary by Korean firms and the comfortable lifestyles they can enjoy, and thus expatriate employees of Korean companies and their family members often decide to stay in the country for several years. They naturally need to shape their lifestyles according to the local environment, and the cultural differences that exist between Korea and Hungary can present some challenges, especially if the Koreans try to maintain the habits and customs of their homeland. Furthermore, in addition to those in employment and their family members, there are also many Korean students attending university in Hungary, and they also experience differences compared to their lives back home.

My study investigates the adaptation process of the Koreans living in Hungary, including the experiences not only of company employees, but also restaurant owners, missionaries, students and interpreters, arguing that the social and cultural differences they face compel them to partially change the habits and customs that acquired in Korea. The research is based on in-depth personal interviews I conducted with Koreans currently living and working or studying in Hungary, as well as on statistics issued by related Korean ministries and Hungarian institutions. The paper contributes to a growing body of expatriate and diaspora studies, highlighting the social norms and transformations that shape communities adapting to a new environment.