I think one of the things that amazes me most about Korea so far is how they are very old-fashioned in some respects, and then very advanced in others. For example, in a class discussion today, every one of the kindergarteners had a computer in their home, but two of them have families that still sleep on the floor, as opposed to having beds. The lack of beds is not a matter of wealth or poverty; some Koreans just choose not to "upgrade" from floor to bed. They have heated floors that are very clean, so I guess sleeping there probably isn't too bad, but it still is a bit mind-boggling for a Westerner.
In another instance, Koreans still use about 1,000 Chinese characters, even though they have their own excellent alphabet (Hangol) and many use English letters now. I think it's fascinating how they can cling to both old and new, and do so well with both.
Many Americans (including several that I know personally) have a faulty view of Koreans, seeing them as backward and third-world people. I guess it's because they look different from us. In actuality, these are very intelligent, capable people who could kick American butts in IQ tests! I met a kindergartener today who is smarter than the average American fourth or fifth grader. She's not an under-socialized little misfit either; she's a friendly, loveable little girl who gets along well with others.
I am learning so much already, and I haven't even been here a week. Korea is amazing!
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