A good gift for a family in Korea from an American?

Question

I am visting Seoul and a family has offered to host me for the week and I was wondering what I should bring them for a gift to thank them for their hospitality.

Answer 1

Ok, well be prepared to be spoilt off your feet!

Koreans are very hospitable, and will spend gazillions of dollars to make sure you are having the most fantastic time.



Try to give something that really reflects america's culture or tradition.

Perhaps a nice hard cover book with photos of some of Americas greatest natural sights. Koreans love nature (althoug they dont do much to protect it), and tramping.



They wont expect much from you, but if you do give something it should have some careful thought to it.

Not too sure how old you are, but a nice bottle of american wine would be nice.



Its going to sound harsh, but Koreans think that everything made in Korea is better anyway... but my korean friend thinks either of those two would be good.



Have fun! You're going to love it, especially being hosted. I remember those days in Korea.

Answer 2

Anything nice from America will be appreciated as mentioned above. However, don't go overboard as often they feel that they have to get you a better gift to " save face " so to speak. Also, I would highly recommend learning a few words of Korean, Komapsumnida or Kamsahamnida ( Thank You ) They really appreciate it when someone at least tries to be courteous and speak some of the language...even if you butcher it. Also be aware that while your host family may be very nice and want to spoil you, many Koreans are still quite Xenophobic and you will get your share of dirty looks or just completely be ignored by others. Overall, don't let it bother you and you will have a fun time ! Your host family will want to take you everywhere ! Have fun

Answer 3

any nice alcohol bottle would do the trick.korean are raised to be alcoholic.they do no see it as a danger but as a cultural thing.be sure to learn at least two words in korea.they really appreciate.hello and thank you are enough.

hello:annyong haseyo . thank you ; kamsa hamnida .

and since ur american , they would rally like if u give them some tips in english.lets face it,the only reason why they offer their hospitality is for practising english for free since it costs a lot to have a private american teacher in korea.

dont worry, ull have fun

Answer 4

Good american whine or whiskey. Trust me, my uncles and my dad's friends in Korea all have huge cabnets full of nothing but imported wine/whiskey all that jazz. They pretty much like anything from America, or so thats how my family/parent's friends take it as.