This could perhaps be down to my Britishness but the fact that most Koreans do not feel the need to queue, or wait in line is a real issue for me.
At the bank, bus, train or shop it is very much a case of first come first served...and if you weren't there first push your way to the front. I think the basis of this rush to do everything in such a hurry comes from the Korean way of life. After a history of being oppressed by a variety of countries from Japan to America they are on a constant journey to better themselves. Whether this be working 12 hours a day, making your child attend at least one academy every night of the week or just pushing your way to the front of the bus queue.
The kKoreans I have the privilege of working with frequently complain about their busy lifestyles and that they have no freetime, well this is when they are not falling asleep at their desks. The urge to better oneself is a noble one but is there any real benefit when you do not have the time to enjoy the life you have worked so hard for?
There are the beginnings of a 'work hard, play hard' ethic appearing in the younger generation but maybe every now and then you need to lay back, admire the view and smell the roses.
