You might have heard of some news in some social media platform or some news site that there were videos where Korean staff rejected some foreigners. In order to avoid confusion, I researched on why did this happen and why is it happening.
I hope that this article will serve as an enlightenment on why are foreigners not allowed in Korean clubs.
Why Do Some Clubs Ban Foreigners In Korean Clubs?
It seems harsh when you see clubs in Korea that have signs specifically banning foreigners. However, there are quite a few reasons for this behavior in many Korean clubs. These can include:
A preference for working in their own language
Many clubs have entire teams of staff that don’t speak any working English. Or, if they do, it’s so limited that something as simple as a New Zealand or South Carolina accent could entirely confuse them to the point of not being able to understand. This would be the case if the patron spoke English or Korean.
Many who enjoy employment in clubs (including management) prefer the simplicity of working with Korean clients and choose not to allow foreigners for that reason.
Previous bad behavior from past foreign guests
There are also reports that allowing foreigners in the past has led to many problems for club owners. Patrons visiting from other countries, be it for work or pleasure, can get away with doing just about anything since they can flee the country and more or less know that they’ll never be charged with the crime.
There have been reports of general rudeness, fights, and even sexual assaults. Many clubs have learned the hard way to keep their clientele limited to only foreigners for this reason.
Lack of respect for Korean culture
Another common concern for those who use these signs is that foreign clients often don’t respect Korean culture, dress code, or norms.
Since many are not there long enough to learn these things, they simply apply their own culture’s principles to the Korean clubs. This can cause discomfort, frustration, and disrespect amongst the native patrons.
Clubs may choose to prefer native patrons since they’ll be the ones who repeat for more business!
If you want to know some South Korean Dining Etiquette, feel free to click the article and have a good read.
How Does South Korea Feel About Foreigners?
As a rule, South Korea feels neutral when it comes to foreigners. It really does depend on all sorts of factors. Generally, Korea is accepting of foreigners in a general sense but often is known for being selective in how they actually accept them.
Most foreigners agree that being in South Korea is going to be easier if you’re White. Or you match those characteristics (regardless of your ethnicity).
Koreans will automatically know that you’re non-Korean, and White foreigners tend to be accepted the most. While those of other ethnicities can have pleasant experiences in Korea, it’s not as common.
Another common factor in the experiences of foreigners in Korea is that it goes a long way to learn the social rules and cultural norms before you arrive.
This isn’t just a pass through the tourist book, either. Take the time to educate yourself on the social and cultural norms so that you understand how to act before arriving. This can help you get better service from restaurant servers, taxis, and more.
Lastly, foreigners agree that you’ll get the best reception in Korea if you go there expecting not to be liked, but liking them in return, anyway. That is, don’t assume that Koreans will fawn over you and trip over themselves to help you out.
Even if you are treated with hostility, it’s essential to act respectfully in return and do your best to always be diplomatic.
The longer that you are in Korea, the better your overall reception is going to be from native Koreans. This is especially if you decide to immerse yourself in learning their language and adhering to the social and cultural norms.
Koreans have learned to be suspicious of outsiders and foreigners. They will feel unease toward foreigners until the attitude of foreigners changes their minds through actions rather than just words.
Conclusion
I hope that this gave you a clear explanation on why they don’t allow people outside Korea in their clubs. The least we can do is to understand if it ever happens to us, and also to respect the culture that’s presented to us.
If you found this article helpful, let your friends know as this type of information will give them a heads up in the future if ever they are going to visit South Korea.