My First Real Experience With Korean Culture: Through K-Dramas

When I first heard about this contest, I had to think for a while about what to write. The truth is, I have never been to Korea before, I have not worn hanbok, and I have not attended any K-pop concert. My own connection with Korean culture started in a very simple way, through watching K-dramas right here in Nigeria

It all started when I came across a Korean drama a few years back. A friend had recommended it, and I decided to give it a try. At first, I didn’t know what to expect. I just thought it would be like every other movie I’ve seen from other countries. But after a few episodes, I noticed that the way they act, the storylines, and even the little details in the background were quite different

Before that time, I didn’t really know much about Korea. I only knew the basics, like it’s an Asian country, they speak Korean language, and they have strong technology brands like Samsung and LG. But as I kept watching more dramas, I started noticing their way of life, their dressing, their food, and how they interact with each other

One of the first cultural things that really stood out to me was the hanbok. I saw it in a historical drama and the first thing that came to my mind was how colourful and neat it looked. I later checked online and found out it is their traditional attire, worn mostly on special days like weddings, festivals, and traditional celebrations such as Chuseok. What I like most about it is that it’s not just for fashion, the colours and designs sometimes carry meanings

Another thing I have picked up from watching Korean dramas is their food. I have not tasted any yet, but I have seen so many scenes with kimchi, tteokbokki, bibimbap, and of course ramyeon. The way they eat together around the table shows that they value family time and respect for elders. I also noticed how they use chopsticks and share from the same dishes. I later read that eating together is a big part of their culture and not just about filling the stomach
Something else that caught my attention is how polite they are when greeting each other. I noticed the bowing in almost every drama I watched. Sometimes it’s a small bow, other times a deeper one. I checked and confirmed it’s a sign of respect they still practice a lot in their daily life

Even the music in K-dramas has become something I enjoy. The soundtracks are always well placed, and sometimes I find myself looking for them after I finish a drama. I’m not fully into K-pop yet, but I think the dramas have slowly opened my ears to Korean music in general

What I expected from Korea before all this? Honestly, not much. I didn’t have any clear picture in my mind. But now I see it as a country that balances tradition and modern life. From the old palaces and festivals to the advanced cities and entertainment industry, it’s a mix of both worlds

Sometimes I also notice how they treat friendship and family in their dramas. The way friends stick together, the way parents guide their children, and even how love is expressed, it’s all very different from what we see every day here

I think my main interest in Korean culture now is because it feels familiar in some ways but still different enough to keep me curious. I hope one day I can travel there, try the food I have only seen on screen, wear a hanbok for real, and maybe visit some drama filming locations

For now, I’m still experiencing Korea through my TV screen here in Nigeria. And honestly, that’s not a bad start. It has already taught me small things about their history, traditions, and even everyday manners. Watching K-dramas is not just entertainment for me anymore, it’s a window into another culture I am still learning about

Photos edited using canva pro