Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
aware of—and though they might seem irrational, so is discomfort with the number
13 or black cats.
• Names in red: Avoid writing names (including your own) in red ink—this is the
color traditionally used to write the names of the dead and could imply that you
wish the person the same fate.
• The number 4: As the number four shares the same pronunciation (“sa”) as the word
for death in Korean, it has negative connotations, and in many buildings and el-
evators fourth floors are omitted altogether.
• Running shoes: Shoes should never be given as a gift, particularly to a romantic
partner, as shoes are designed for movement and will cause them to run away.
• Lucky pigs: Pigs are a symbol of wealth and abundance, and if you're lucky enough
to dream of one, it means there's some money headed your way—time to buy a
lottery ticket perhaps?
Buddhism reached its historical apex in the late 7th century, when it became the de facto
state religion for the better part of seven centuries. This was followed by a period of sup-
pression under the Joseon Dynasty that confined most temples to distant mountain valleys,
where most remain today. Having produced much of the country's artistic and architectural
wonders, the religion occupies a special place in the Korean psyche, but in recent decades it
has been overshadowed by the rapid spread of Christianity, which is generally perceived as
more modern and dynamic. The Jogye runs “temple-stay” programs and international
seon
centers in South Korea for foreign residents who are interested in studying Buddhist prac-
tice.
Next to the Philippines and East Timor, South Korea is the most Christian country in Asia,
with Christians of all major denominations representing around a third of the population.
While Christianity was a relative latecomer, first promulgated by Catholic and Protestant
missionaries in the 1800s, it quickly won the hearts of a largely poverty-stricken and down-
trodden population with its messages of heavenly rewards and equality in the eyes of God.
Esteem for the religion grew further as church resources were poured into promoting liter-
acy and building modern hospitals and educational institutions. Koreans were also grateful
for the support shown by Christians for the country's independence struggle and the ensu-
