17. South Korea
South Korea is fast-paced, modern, and orderly—but Americans often report feeling socially out of sync. Locals may avoid eye contact, remain silent in service settings, or appear cold when dealing with foreigners. This isn’t personal—it’s part of a culture that values subtlety and hierarchy. Americans who speak loudly, laugh boisterously in public, or act too casually in formal spaces may receive disapproving looks. In restaurants or shops, service is efficient but impersonal, and customer satisfaction isn’t always a priority. What Americans perceive as rudeness is often just reserved behavior meant to preserve dignity. In Seoul, where there’s more exposure to foreign tourists, this attitude is milder, but outside the capital, Americans can feel isolated and misunderstood. Still, once a connection is made, South Koreans can be incredibly loyal and generous—just don’t expect a warm welcome at first.
