Koreans are very family-orientated. Family members are very loyal to each other and dedicated to maintaining their nexus (characteristic of collectivist societies). In some traditional/rural social circles, families can be so defining that they are perceived as having a collective face. Therefore, the act of an individual can impact the perception of the entire family by others.

Traditionally, Korean family hierarchies were defined by the Confucian organisation of relationships, which emphasised patriarchal authority. Under this family model, a husband/father was to exhibit dominance and kindness to his wife in return for obedience and love. Likewise, he would show guidance and protection to his children and receive filial piety, respect and obedience. Many families would uphold him as the ultimate decision-maker.

The nuclear family is the common family structure, and children are raised to be more dependant on themselves. The archetype of the man as the breadwinner has remained to a degree, but women have gained much more status and power in society. Parents now share disciplinary power over their children, whereas previously it was largely the father’s role.

The ultimate goal of most parents is to see their child be more educated and prosperous than themselves. As such, most Korean parents are utterly devoted to their children’s success. This is often expressed in a way that puts heavy expectations on the child to excel to reach their parent’s aspirations. Many Korean youths are put under immense pressure in their education and career.

A split of familial ideals has emerged as they become less family-focused. Elders should be honoured for their wisdom in accordance with filial piety and cared for by the family. The younger generation has started rejecting these conventions, causing issues in some Korean households where the older generation expects respect and obedience to be shown in accordance to age – the traditional way.

Nonetheless, some Koreans still adhere to traditional family values. For example, many worship their ancestors multiple times a year in ceremonies that revere their previous three generations (parents, grandparents and great grandparents). This act of respect honours the belief that Korean children are in eternal debt to their parents.

Korean family activities have inherent characteristics different from other countries. If you understand the characteristics of Korean families, family activities can be more convenient and also useful for understanding Korean culture. The family culture in each family and region is different. Korea has been influenced by Confucian culture since ancient times. Therefore, Korean family culture, although there are many similarities with countries influenced by other Confucian cultures, but undergoing high-speed industrialization has resulted in Korean family culture. Quoc is also gradually undergoing a change.

In Korea, family relationships are called to show politeness. If you look at the family map, you will see names for the husband and wife's family. For the person above, they must speak politely, with the person below, they often use ordinary words. Family names may vary slightly from family to generation, so discussing with family is also a good method.