Before and since coming to South Korea I have always wondered about the use of the English language in various aspects of Korean culture. For example, English is sometimes used in K-Pop songs at random intervals, before reverting back to Korean. I've heard before that this is for "cool" factor, but I wonder if there's more to it than just that (like perhaps trying to bring in the overseas crowd?). Also, I've noticed English used in many stores; for example, yesterday I went into a large Korean bookstore. While there, I noticed that even though almost all the books were in Korean, English words were used along with Korean throughout the store for helping signify sections of books (Non-fiction, Business, etc.) and also to signify the location of the cashier. I'm wondering what is the reason for using English if the store is directed towards Korean-speakers?
Another smaller question I had, and I know many others feel the same way, is about the lack of trash cans in South Korea. It always seems to be a scavenger hunt trying to find a trash can, I only see a few a day! In particular, I was wondering what the reason for this may be, and also if South Koreans find this bothersome or have adapted to it?
One last question, being an American, I wonder how Koreans stay so thin given how much food they consume daily. While I have a few guesses for answers already, in that the food is most likely more healthy and balanced, and also that Seoul requires lots of walking, it still seems surprising to me. Is there more to it, are Koreans more conscious of their body image, or anything else?
Thanks for reading :)!
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