CULTURE OF JAPAN & KOREAS

People Japan Korea 99% are ethnic Japanese Minority are Ethnic Koreans Chinese Ainu Korea Ethnic Koreans Minority are Chinese

Language Japan = Japanese Korea = Korean Characters are a combination of Chinese characters and Japanese symbols Korea = Korean Half of words come from Chinese

Religion Japan Korea Buddhism is primary religion Blend of Buddhism and Confucianism Christianity is a growing religion in South Korea North Korea does not allow for freedom of religion

Land Use Japan is the size of California Four times as many people in Japan as in CA 867 people per square mile

Food Japan Rice is a staple Sushi: vinegared rice with vegetables and/or fish Sashimi: Thin slices of raw fish Noodles and tofu are also common Tea is most commonly drank

Korea Rice is also a staple Grilled meats and vegetables are common Kimchi is a common dish Mixture of cabbage and spices

Education Japan South Korea North Korea Superior educational system Highest literacy rate in the world Intense competition to get into universities South Korea Educational system is similar to Japan’s North Korea Communist ideology is primary focus Higher education is limited

Traditions/ Customs Japan Strong family ties and respect for elders Kimono is commonly worn for special occasions Removing shoes before entering a home is expected Poetry and art are respected and popular Anime is widely popular High fashion is trendy, especially in Tokyo