Although Japanese, English, and Mandarin are widely spoken and understood in South Korea, there is only one official language: Korean. Korean is a language isolation, which means it is unlike any other living or dead language. The Hangul script has its own grammar system, lexicon, and alphabet. Since 1948, when it was divided from North Korea, South Korea has existed. As a result, the Korean War erupted. Globalization has influenced the South Korean vernacular in the decades since the country's split. As a result, the Korean spoken in each country differs significantly, while it is nonetheless mutually understandable.

South Korea is a secure nation. There is a very low crime rate, and there have been no recent terror acts. South Korea is a free country with a constitution that protects human rights and civil liberties. Elections are held on a regular basis, and they frequently result in peaceful transitions of power. While South Korean culture has been affected by the West since 1948, it is still quite distinct. South Koreans are by nature rather private people. In South Korea, any behaviour that is not private or orderly, such as screaming or inebriation, is frowned upon.

Politeness and thankfulness are also key South Korean characteristics, so expect to be thanked or thanked for any service or gesture, no matter how minor.