Topic > Korean Culture - 929

Confucianism emphasizes the value of collective group harmony, respect for authority, as well as embracing the importance of family, clan and friendship. The basic beliefs are based on five different relationships: 1) ruler and subject, 2) husband and wife, 3) parents and children, 4) brothers and sisters, and 5) friend and friends. Genealogy and social context are important and determine how people are treated in society. Age, position in the company, education and marital status determine an individual's "rank" in society. Korea is a collectivist society. This is seen in a close, long-term commitment to the member group, be it a family, extended family, or extended relationships. Loyalty in a collectivist culture is paramount and overrides most other social rules and regulations. Society promotes strong relationships in which everyone takes responsibility for other members of their group. When making a decision, they consider the benefits and interests for the entire group to which they belong. Personal