05 Feb
One of the things I have really come to love about living in Korea is discovering all of the superstitions and different beliefs. Korean superstitions are an interesting combination of cultural wisdom, old wives’ tales, and a little touch of the mystical. As a teacher in Korea, you’ll hear about these superstitions from your students. Sometimes it will be as lighthearted jokes, and sometimes with conviction. Here are some of the most memorable superstitions I’ve encountered. Hopefully you can learn from my mistakes and stories as you navigate the new world of Korean superstitions.
Beware Of Fan Death
Let’s start with a classic: fan death. According to this superstition, sleeping in a closed room with a fan running can be deadly, as it supposedly causes suffocation or hypothermia. I remember my first summer here, cranking up the fan and air conditioner in my apartment to beat the heat. The next day I told some coworkers that I wanted to buy a stronger fan and a Korean teacher gasped and said “Don’t you know about fan death?” Although I haven’t encountered any hardcore believers in this superstition, I think it’s up there as one of my favorite Korean superstitions.
Writing Names in Red Ink
One day I was writing group names on the board when I heard the kids mumbling behind me. I thought they were just upset about their groups when a student said, “Teacher, no red!” I realized I was using a red board marker but still couldn’t understand what all of their solemn faces were about. In Korea, writing someone’s name in red ink is associated with death, as it was traditionally used for names in obituaries. Now, I always make sure to use a black or blue board marker as this is a Korean superstition taken seriously today.
Numbers Matter
Every culture has a love-hate relationship with certain numbers and Korea is no different. The number 4 is considered unlucky because it sounds like the word for “death” (sa). This is why you will see elevators labeled with “F” instead of “4” in many buildings. On the flip side, the number 8 is lucky, symbolizing wealth and prosperity. I’ve taken to choosing 8 whenever I can—plane seats, locker numbers, you name it! We could all use a little more wealth and good fortune and if following this superstition will deliver then I’m all for it.
Gifting Shoes to Your Significant Other
Here’s a romantic superstition: never give your partner shoes. This superstition stems from the old belief that gifting a pair of shoes might encourage your lover to “run away” from the relationship. When I first heard this, I thought it was pretty funny. However, I am not one to tempt fate so I have no problem sticking to more neutral gifts and avoiding footwear.
Why These Superstitions Matter
As a teacher in Korea, understanding these superstitions is more than just fun trivia—it’s a way to connect with your students and Korean friends on a deeper level. I feel that sharing a laugh about fan death can break the ice when you meet new people, while being mindful of cultural taboos and beliefs also shows respect for your new home. It may seem like a small thing but cultural awareness can go a long way!
Living in Korea has taught me to embrace the quirky side of life, and these superstitions are a big part of what makes the culture so rich and unique. Whether you’re navigating red pens or a pair of new shoes on your birthday, there’s always something new to learn, and laugh, about here in Korea.
Michelle Duquette, Marketing Assistant
Michelle Duquette is from Toronto, Canada and moved to South Korea in 2015. She has a Bachelors in English literature and a Masters in ESL Education. Michelle has taught at Creverse campuses in Gangneung, Songpa, and Mokdong and currently works as a CDI and April Trainer. Michelle never set out to be a teacher but fell in love with Korean culture and the excitement of being in the classroom. Michelle lives in Seoul with her partner and two cats, Cherry and Frost.
