Why Korea is the World's Most Materialistic Country | The Sad Truth about Materialism in Korea

[@MrsMeganMoon]

Let our BetterHelp match you with a credentialed therapist in just 48 hours! 👉 betterhelp.com/meganmoon get 10% off of your first month with this special link. #paidpartnership

[@damaster692]

So if a Korean girl with a big booty thinks i have money it will be easier to get inside. But it's rare to find cute Koreans with big booty . Interesting

[@MarcoMasseria]

Not disagreeing with your point that Korea is materialistic, but that doesn't explain why she was cancelled. She lost face because she was a fraud. In the US, being a fraud or faking it is not viewed in the same way as it is in societies of honor. Not judging, just observing. Notice that no one under 25 in the US even uses the word "honor"? Great video!

[@Leila-sd1sl]

@@MarcoMasseria- in the West being a fraud and a fake are encouraged and promote…..

[@KateeAngel]

It is a scam!

[@rinchan632]

" If your friend is going to talk crap behind your back for a low budget party then they are not your real friend." This message right here can be said about so many things. Very insightful and it's sad how materialistic people can be. Even though I live in the West my country is similar with how they look down on people based on status and job. It's sad. It feels as though they just need an ego booster by belittling someone else.

[@brucehur2051]

whydoes she talk and act like blacks?

[@jg8303]

Back here people would rightfully hate you BECAUSE you talked trash about a baby's birthday....you don't talk sh*t about a friend who first thought of inviting you to their child's special day no matter where it was....to me that's disgusting behaviour and I have no interest in being their friend ..big big red flag and yucky behaviour.Especially if the family is struggling and they still decided to do something so their friends could be a part of such a special day....people with morals and empathy are a thousand times more valuable than a-holes who wear brand clothes and think they are better than you.

[@SaraFlara]

I strangely think like what Megan says is common sense to me - if someone judged you for that they arent a friend. But in Korea there is so much judging and its so normalized i think many people accept it as normal behavior among family and friends. Considering that, in the US maybe if you are extremely judgmental other people would talk to you about that that you would grow up learning that isnt acceptable. I think its so normal in korea to judge that thats why so many people do if that makes sense? I dont want to say everyone is terrible but more like learning to judge less was probably not a value people grew up with so the result is more people judge more

[@dudie5403]

I was shocked that $3000 is already considered 'low budget' for me that means ' high end'. In the Netherlands first birthdays are usually small because it's not in the interest of the baby anyway but more for the parents. The biggest event is the cake smash and that's it. Usually it only a few hours in the afternoon because the baby has to sleep. So yeah people who talk crap behind your back because you only spend 3000$ are no real friends too me. Friends should be there to support you, not to put you down.

[@musicbkim]

​@@dudie5403 You are right. It's silly to be spending such for the 1st Bday party, cause the baby won't even remember it. I am Korean living in Australia. I didn't agree with spending that much money for children's Bday parties. So I didn't spend much money for my children's 1st Bday parties. But in Kirea, because 1st Bday traditionally was a very significant celebration for the whole family and town (just because the baby has survived the whole year and not died), it has become a very traditional celebration day with certain ceremonies and so on. But in the past few decades, it's morphed into a show off event for the wealthy families(the parents). Just like Weddings, 70yr Bday parties, and so on, especiallyamong the wealthy ppl. They will receive expensive cash or other material gifts and so on from the guests and the hosts will show off their 'status'. But there are still many others who are not wealthy and do not practice such things. Also some Christians in Korea, including my family, do not place a lot of value in monetary or materialistic stuff, and thus choose to have more modest celebration.

[@sm33f3r]

I have a garden on the roof of my building in Seoul and sometimes when that gets brought up in conversation, I get responses that give those vibes of classist inferiority/superiority complex. "헐...I just buy my basil at a mart." or "Oh, that's what my grandpa used to do." or "Why? Isn't that hard work?" I get the notion that gardening is considered an activity for inferior classes and money spending consumption is what the superior classes are associated with. Hey, I just like fresh basil, peppers and herbs because they taste better. The classist judgement game is not something I'll ever be taking part in. I really hope people can get over that mentality in society here.

[@Dr3Mc3Ninja]

Whereas in my eyes, having a garden is seen as being higher class. It requires effort, free time, and you have to invest money into it. I never see lower class people in town with gardens. Buying from the shop is easier and cheaper. Having excess money and time to invest into a hobby is the opposite of being poor.

[@librislibertas]

Wow that's crazy! Gardening is trendy here (Canada) lately, I look out from my balcony and so many people grow their own tomatoes and peppers. It's a praiseworthy, life skill.

[@sm33f3r]

@librislibertas Same in Northwest US too. I wish other people grew neighborhood gardens in Seoul but it seems to be generally looked down upon.

[@Christian-apparel]

This is so sad especially when you can grow herbs anywhere..

[@franchellemarshman4867]

That is so crazy that there is any negativity connected with a garden. How beautuful that must be! Up on the roof, above the asphalt and the streets, green and blooms❤❤❤❤ i just love that idea! I would pay extra for a rooftop apartment to do exactly that!

[@frankiekvlogs]

My mother is extremely materialistic… and it comes from the trauma or growing up in poverty. My family is from Panama. And her trauma is so bad, she can’t fathom the thought that happiness can come from other people wanting to see you happy and care for you.

[@KerimaCevik1]

Wow this hit home hard my mom was Panamanian and yes.

[@jalenirodriguez1135]

Whoa my mom is Panamanian too and i feel this

[@rocker725227]

My mom too girl😂

[@salamandress]

Eh nah that's still dependant on the person. My dad came over when he was 8 and worked the fields from then until he could legally get his own job. He could give two fucks about material shit. He taught me to be anti materialistic. So nah. This ain't nurture. It's nature.

[@samaraisnt]

People have different responses to trauma and poverty but that’sa normal one people don’t talk about but even without trauma that’s how society pushes people to be.

[@hazelreflection]

I remember a while back when I was teaching middle schoolers in Korea, I asked my students about what they wanted to be when they grew up. One girl said she wanted to get into make up and create a line of lip glosses, but also said she’ll never do it because her parents didn’t want her to. I was so sad for her, even tho she was only in middle school. But I had another kid who was practicing to be and an English speaking contest; I worked with him every day for a week. One of his teachers was INSISTENT he do it, because winning it would be honorable. I asked him afterwards how it went, and he said he didn’t go, he instead went to a science conference that he really wanted to go to. His teacher was disappointed in him, but man I was so proud! Despite having coached him for days, I was so happy he did what he wanted to do instead. Those kids were under so much pressure all the time.

[@seeleunit2000]

Well good for that kid. He should do more what he wants to a subject he likes

[@gryla5290]

That teacher was holding him down. He'll do more good pursuing science

[@BlueBirdsFIy]

i lived in korea for 5 months. once the rose colored glasses wore off by the third month... the materialism and vainness of people started to really make me kind of sick. no matter what, i was ugly, i had ugly clothes, i was fat, etc.

[@raquelfigueroa5539]

​@rebekah1362 people try to make it sound like, " That's how they show they care for you" , well that's a ulgly way of showing it.... unfortunately that's how it is all over the world, the difference in most of other country of the world , we have the social " Okay" to go ahead and respectfully telling them that we don't like it. Just because you're older, it doenst mean you're right, can do or say whatever you want. Sometimes I wonder if they believe that because a person is older, that they are responsible humans that have learn from their mistake and have worked on be better people every day. Or just because you're old, and even though you haven't work on yourself to be a good human, makes you right even when youre wrong and a unpleasant person to be around...

[@angelaxatwork]

In the end the comments made say more about themselves than it does about you , I used to think Hollywood was superficial but South Korea said hold my beer. Their credit card debt is so high , just to have a designer bag to feel worthy. I feel like the country is just one big hamster wheel.

[@SaraFlara]

This is one of the hardest parts of living in korea for me. My mom grew up very poor and managed to work her way to middle class in a time women had less rights and opportunities. My mom raised me to be independent and work hard and not to value material things so much. A 20$ desk vs 2000$ desk at the end of the day both is a desk as long as its not built horribly. I struggle a lot at times because i dont value status or brand name items and I can feel very small subtle ways this makes me stand out or be left out.

[@kaymitchell6143]

Wow. I’m kind of like this but I’m in America. I never thought about how choosing to not focus on materialistic things in a collectivist society could make you feel alienated. I can kind of relate to the feeling but in the opposite way. I am autistic so I often do not care about trendy things and as a result people think that I perceive myself as being better than them. So I don’t get the opportunity to make a like of genuine connections because people think that I am going to be rude or mean. They either treat me horribly or they tell people they dislike me because they assume things about me. I always thought moving to a more collectivist society would change things like that and make it easier to feel included. So it’s surprising to hear you deal with similar feelings of alienation for opposite reasons.

[@SaraFlara]

@ I think its not so much just materialism but consumerism. People are constantly chasing new trending items but then the trends change so fast. I feel like a lot of socializing resolves around spending money and you are kinda left out if you cant keep up.

[@musicbkim]

I can really relate to you. I live in Australia now with an Aussie husband and 2 kids. I was fortunate in some ways, because I grew up with a community of Christian ppl who believed and practiced modest lifestyle. But it was still challenging, because you still have to meet many ppl who are not part of those community. But it definitely helps having even a couple of friends who are not materialistic and share common values.

[@kaymitchell6143]

@ Yes, I agree. I don’t meet many people who like to just go on walks or the little things that I enjoy. In our culture a lot of spending time with friends and family revolves around going out to eat or going to event places that cost money per person. It makes it harder for me to make friends because I usually cannot handle a lot of these places for sensory reasons. I sometimes try to force myself to do those things but I always walk away feeling like I wasted my money or could have spent it best buying a blanket and the foods we like for a nice inexpensive picnic with that same person.

[@merrittpalmer4349]

@@musicbkim korean women are so easy for white men

[@asman3209]

To clarify, not all of Song Jia's items were fake. Only a small percentage were actually counterfeit. The majority of her items were authentic. After the controversy, she posted a video showing her items being authenticated, which helped restore her reputation. This further reinforces your point that, as long as most of her items were real, she was able to regain the respect of the public, both in Korea and globally, and successfully re-enter the public eye by wearing the rich hat back again.

[@anawkwardsweetpotato4728]

And it's usually the loudest naysayers who will come crawling back acting like they didn't try to end her and the generations to come of her. It's systematic.

[@selaphim9941]

Well I know nothing about this but it sounds like an episode of black Mirror and I hate it. Shouldn’t we love this person based on their characteristics and not whether their purchased items are authenticated? This country needs a wake up call

[@revolrtol]

I mean us the west were baffled y thebacklash and hate she got from koreans. So internationally she was still doing fine

[@robertsien1623]

​@@selaphim9941keep these people in Korea

[@mikiminach-i2j]

this is wild

[@silverylotus]

It extends outside of Korea too. I am in the states and notice the Korean moms mostly talk to each other. They will be say hi and smile. I've made small talk with them but there is some sort of a wall. I figured they are probably more comfortable speaking in Korean. Now I wonder if it's because I am in sweats and a fleece while they are very polished at school drop-offs. I have to admit they always look great.

[@noladroop284]

Australians believe in a work/ life balance and nobody cares if you are wearing g designer brands or going barefoot. It's what's inside your mind and heart that is important.😊

[@slee2695]

​@@noladroop284lmao stop...i've been to Australia

[@revolrtol]

Idk, i met a lot of korean students in uni (uk) and they all tend to flock and keep to each other. Some of them go out of their way to just make friends with foreigners but most of them just feel comfortable being with koreans. And then there’s the third category - the korean friend who did befriend a non-korean but will ditch and ghost you after years of friendship lmao

[@slee2695]

@@revolrtol people who aren't fluent in English like to hang out with people with the same language and culture? Shocking

[@goobabooba1665]

@@slee2695no, they shouldn’t. You come to new country you shouldn’t do that. We must strip your own culture and ingrain our own. When Koreans do that everyone is fine, but when Muslims or Indians do that it’s considered unsafe. What a double standard. You come you assimilate.

[@CaptJackPal]

It’s so Interesting how a countries history reflects the current social standards.

[@gmanlee575]

Pretty much, korea has been the longest slave society in human history. Koreans also dont have much indigenous culture they love to copy who ever is the hedgemon at the time, theyre very willing to bow and please as they currently do to America

[@fer2929]

As an elementary level English teacher in Korea, I agree with how interesting, although sometimes sad, many children view money and work here. If you ask them what they would buy with endless money, most of them say they would buy buildings. In America, we would expect a kid to say toys, snacks, or similar things. It was jolting when I first heard it from my students

[@user-hs1dd4tc7t]

too smart that's the problem

[@dreamleemah]

It’s ingrained in them but let kids be kids they have the rest of their life to be an adult. I don’t care to hear a 7 year old tell me they want to buy a building… tell me you want to buy an Ice cream truck. There are kids who are natural entrepreneurs, but it’s not common.

[@Kaeldra3]

22,000 on a birthday party the babies will not remember is insane to me…. Woah

[@Ruzeman]

That’s why they don’t make babies I guess.

[@BenHifni]

You're assuming it's for the babies

[@tyler-qr5jn]

I have no idea what you have to do to even reach spending 22K on a si gle party... are you buying a whole car and renting a penthouse??

[@revolrtol]

@@BenHifnididnt she say in the video that it was for the baby’s 1-year-old birthday?

[@samueljennings4809]

@revolrtol well it officially is for the baby, but he’s saying that the money is really being spent so the parents can look good and rich while throwing the party.

[@karenwalker3233]

I can’t imagine the pressure that puts on young people. That makes me so so sad for the youth. God bless you and your entire family. I so love your videos ! I’m anxiously awaiting the arrival of my skin care !!!!! I can’t wait to get it.

[@MrsMeganMoon]

The young people do feel so stressed about it. Childhood depression is high here also :( it’s so sad sometimes to see people so stressed. I personally know people with depressed kids and teens. It’s really sad to hear about.

[@brucehur2051]

why you talk and act like blacks?

[@ellaellela656]

@@MrsMeganMoondo you plan on homeschooling your kids? We don’t even have babies yet but we already had this conversation and feel like homeschooling is not such a bad idea..

[@Cuuhleerity]

So true. I am pregnant now while both me and my husband aren’t very materialistic, we’re still worried about the future (environment) of our baby cuz even the kids here are getting very materialistic

[@greekre]

as a retired 50 year old with money and paid off homes i have never purchased a luxury brand item that you can tell is a luxury brand item. if the youth aren't taught this lesson from their family then they can enjoy the extra pressure of life as an added cost of their items

[@Jesame.Huriwai]

I love ur breakdown on Korean society thank u

[@brucehur2051]

why you talk and act like blacks?

[@justmeagain7]

I love it too; however, I wonder: won't it get you into trouble with your foreigner status? I know a few Asian countries where talking badly about society or the government could easily and quickly get you expelled from the country, no matter how legally and integrated you are there

[@ori5581]

쫓아내야 한다. 건방지네.. 본인나라로 돌려보내야한다

[@sandrapounds1654]

@@ori5581Lol

[@patriciajackson6285]

@This is true about South Korea. The world knows this. Foreign Interviewers on the streets of Seoul interview the native South Koreans and they say the same thing she’s saying. Hence, all KDrama series are based on what she is saying and she’s breaking it down on her platform. This is so sad a society has to live like this. The South Koreans in America are striving once they live their country, and do not want to return.😢. Vanity is real in South Korea.😢. South Koreans in American do not dress up daily, wear designer’s clothes, or carry expensive ugly designer handbags for social status. They enjoy going to Costco dressed casual, laughing and talking amongst themselves. They aren’t stressed over $30,000 venues for a 1 year old, like South Koreans in their native land.

[@vatefairefoutre0]

one of the main reasons my Korean husband and I are in the US and no longer living in Korea. I literally cannot STAND it. from small town Michigan... I couldn't stand the feeling of disrespect/lower class status to blue collar workers there and how you were only "worthy" if you were a doctor. um... people? how could Korea function if everyone was just a lawyer, doctor, engineer? everyone and most jobs matter and contribute value. I also wanted to vomit if I saw another damn Gucci or other similar crap. I think I had a few select moments of breakdowns too where I'd stop wearing makeup and do weird stuff like when everyone around me was fixing their hair to make it look perfect (even though it already looked perfect), I'd just rough my hair up in rebellion LOL. now that I'm back in the US... I actually enjoy makeup again because it feels more for me again and not for others/endless bs pressure Korean society/culture tries to put on you.

[@Xcxc13]

It’s generational trauma

[@vatefairefoutre0]

@@Xcxc13 I know there's a lot of complex reasons for this and I really feel for everyone. some people, Korean or foreign, really like the whole glitz and glamour aspect of Korea too. I would be lying if I said when I first moved there I wasn't super impressed by the way everyone dresses so much better than where I come from which is the land of flannels and hoodies, or Kpop, or the skin care... blah blah. of course there's some fun/good that can come from it. but the more I lived there (for 5 years) the more I just grew to despise it and realized how much I just cannot jive with the hyper-capitalism, materialistic, rat race, competition, perfection sort of culture there. sometimes my husband and I joke that Korea would be sooooo amazing and we'd move back right away if they could just chill a little...

[@Sabzworld77]

true I can't imagine living In area where only money and materialistic things matter never!

[@PinkRose0910]

Does your husband miss his country though? Or do you try to travel there every year so he can see his family? I think it would be tough for international couples .

[@브라이언PR]

The trick is to ignore it, I'm doing just fine living in Suwon with my Korea wife 😀 family is first and only our opinions matter, never compare yourself to anyone and you will be so happy I promise you, btw I drive a beat up a 2010 Kia Soul which I got for 1k lol, why be in debt to look like "you have money", happiness comes from within and the important people in your life like family is all that matters

[@felzebub1762]

Also Megan, your kids are so lucky to have you as their mama! You have so much awareness and understanding!

[@eezekiel07]

Thank you for these videos! I'm half korean but was raised outside of Korea. Your work really makes me understand my family so much better. I thought it was just them who are like this 😅 Mr moon is so lucky to have a wife with such insight ❤

Many wealthy people don't show their money. One would never know they are wealthy. Life in. Korea must be sad if people cannot follow what they are passionate about. Always trying to get on top of others must be exhausting.

[@Lily-cm3nj]

🎯🎯🎯🎯that's because real rich people have no need to prove anything to anybody and poor people would rather look and pretend to be rich to impress people that don't care!

[@irenealorbu6885]

Very true!

[@franchellemarshman4867]

You are exactly right. Watch what Elon Musk wears. Why? Because he's so rich he has nothing to prove to anyone....he has the freedom to wear whatever he wants. THAT is the TRUE definition of rich...❤❤❤

[@Nothereforit174]

@@10secondsofmylifechile stop

[@Nothereforit174]

@@franchellemarshman4867that man has employees he makes carry his children unless they want poor performance reviews and removal from their high paying job they worked hard for. He’s also friends with noted and proud white nationalists. I’m sure he does feel free if you’re eating his crap and he’s exploiting people. He just can’t dress himself, and he doesn’t have to do what other people have to do because money was never an issue for him and he grew up on stolen land with emeralds in abundance that he didn’t appreciate to the point he’d drop them on the street after carrying them around like a show off. Stop cheering mediocre and bad white men for having no fashion and stop being so ignorant that these videos can become a source for you when there’s actual nonfiction from scholars to look at. Most of whom agree that man is dangerous, an extremist with too much power he’s about to have in a country he’s not from to be someone who relies on others to make his failed designs for his environmentally detrimental rockets(and he’s not even really a designer because he flunked out of college and can’t do the science related to anything he does, he goes to the library for vague ideas and then smarter people do it for him and he’s not hiding this and it shows how right he is to feel smug at least because you’re letting him make you look ignorant). Idiots, all of you. No South Korea isn’t the most material and stop learning from tik tok. You’re daft if clothes mean that much to you to the point people can’t just be dressed better without you having something to say. It’s no better than looking down on the poor

[@sammarie4802]

As someone who taught as an English teacher in a rural area of Korea (not even near to Seoul), one of our textbook lessons was learning how to describe your dream job. Many of my middle school students were not only disinterested in this lesson, but very closed-off to the topic. When I asked them to instead explain their feelings about the lesson, they mentioned that there was no point to having a dream job, especially as kids from a rural area who will never make it to “the big city” to work and earn a nice life. The reality hit me that my students knew from a young age that poor people in Korea often stay poor and never have the opportunity to change their path, or “fate” as they saw it.

[@travelmooks9303]

That’s so sad that kids believe they can’t even dream of better because their believe that fate (as a poor person) is sealed.

[@krisreyes9381]

Not trying to act like an expert here, but just my two cents. I feel like that’s part of why there’s such a high rate of people unaliving themselves in Korea. Like, for real, they’re clearly not happy with their lives. And even celebrities, who seem to have it all, are taking their own lives, which says a lot. Plus, the insane pressure to meet society’s crazy-high expectations doesn’t help. Honestly, I wish people would just take a step back, chill, and actually enjoy life for what it is.

[@travelmooks9303]

@ I agree. And the insane standards are diabolical.

[@mkmk54248]

I learned a lot from this video. Thanks. I'm a second generation Korean-Canadian and this explains a lot in terms of how my parents acted. It's a shame because a lot of what they cared about was so superficial and shallow. Even when my mother passed away, she made sure beforehand to have a Korean restaurant reserved after her funeral so that everyone could be fed on her expense. I thought, why does she care so much what others think about her, especially if she's gone?

[@naomic7653]

that’s quite bittersweet, I hope you’re doing alright and the video helped you feel some closure, It’ll be okai :)

[@rennie2611]

When I was visiting Seoul, I noticed a lot of designers stores and they were packed with people.

[@brucehur2051]

whydoes she talk and act like blacks?

[@fatoumatacoulibaly1560]

Whereas here in Paris, they are either empty or filled with tourists.

[@saracruze2212]

It's sad people dress to look good for OTHER PEOPLE who really don't give a damn about them and will keep talking about them behind their backs. What a sad situation the content negativity in your face 24/7 I see why people are depressed unhappy and don't want to live.😢

[@magdad3197]

W Polsce też tak jest ale pewnie w mniejszym stopniu.

[@revolrtol]

@@brucehur2051can you stop leaving the same comment everywhere? The woman doesn’t “act or talk like blacks” whatever the fuck that means but she might be mixed. Leave her alone

[@erikajohansson1936]

I remember going out in Daegu and we started to talk to some guys and one of them had borrowed a cap from like Gucci or something from a friend so that he would look more impressive. I felt sad hearing about it because he was a genuinely sweet guy, but you know he was a student and didn't have a lot of money and his self-worth seemed so intensely tied to that, it broke my heart. Also the pressure on young kids, man it's so intense. I was teaching english a little bit and I had 10-11 year olds who would brake down crying in class sometimes because they were so tired and frustrated

[@monmon3681k]

I'm french but my parents are cambodian. I grew up with the goal to have a work that will provide me money, praise etc... But I, now, i'm not happy with the job i have. Even if i'm grateful that i can work, earn good money ... But life is not only the rat race. I'm learning to find stuff to do in my life that satisfy me and makes me happy and makes the world a better place.

[@catmenot7143]

Then you are not French.

[@samaraisnt]

^ shut up racist yes they are french. any french person would tell you that and fyi over 50% of french people were born to non-white foreign parents so there goes your all-white parisian fantasy 😜

[@shakthi9524]

You are cambodian.

[@R2bbang]

I absolutely love your talking videos. That honest and straightforward opinion based on experience and some research, plated in easy-digesting way is really valuable I think. I am living in Korea for a few years now, experiencing all its issues, and your videos help me to remember that I don’t HAVE TO be part of this culture, cause when you are surrounded by certain environment for a decent period of time you start kinda dissolving in it, thinking that’s how the world works, and lose your identity. Not easy to peruse your own values while everyone around you is seeing the world with different lenses, and your videos help me to keep on the right track! Keep going with them, girl!

[@eemoogee160]

Find Korean non-conformists and free thinkers. They're out there.

[@Cuuhleerity]

Same! Now that I am in Korea, I get to appreciate more where I am originally from.

[@Catherine_2571]

That car stuff is true in the US too. I had a 20 year old car and got treated terribly. New sedan, and people are so nice. The irony is I was able to retire because of not buying a car for over two decades! Jokes on them! Truth is, no status symbol is as sweet as sleeping in every day and having full freedom! 😊

[@torturedparadox]

Hearing you talk about this reminds me so much of the culture painted in the Crazy Rich Asians books. It's such a materialistic culture, not just in Korea, but all through Asia.

[@user-hs1dd4tc7t]

asian cultures = collectivism = need to keep up appearances = need to buy and wear expensive sht. no rocket science needed.

[@arcturus4067]

I think the materialism is more acute with East Asians rather than other Asians. Those who are culturally influenced by Chinese civilization (China, Taiwan, Korea, Japan, Vietnam). I myself am Malaysian of Chinese descent and I see so many similarities between my community and Korea as described in this video, probably just less extreme. It's fascinating why such communities behave that way and I will definitely do a bit more research (and introspection) . Not all of us Asians are crazy materialistic though - I myself am definitely not. In a way, my thinking is thus atypical. Anyhow, thanks for your comment.

[@takenbythewindNdrivenbythesea]

@@arcturus4067 I totally agreed 👍🏻🥂

[@선족이단속반]

⁠​⁠@@arcturus4067동의 합니다 그런데 유교문화권이 물질주의적인건 맞는데 제 경험상으론 태국과 베트남의 물질주의는 또다른 레벨이였습니다 몇푼 안되는 돈에 쉽게 관계를 등져버리는것 같은 행위에 충격을 많이 받았다 사실 유교문화권에서는 물질주의가 심하지만 유교의 또다른 가치와 충돌시 그 물질주의적 행위가 최소한 부끄러운 행위라는걸 인지한다

[@leighrogers1383]

I lived in Korea for 20 years…from 1998 to 2018. This is one aspect of Korea culture/society that I do not miss.

[@angiecats5298]

I live in New Zealand and a life in Korea sounds very exhausting in a lot of ways lol. I like living a relaxed life where I don’t have to worry about what people think about me. People talk so much trash about western society but I’m thinking it’s jealousy.

[@dodo12145]

After moving to a western society, I appreciate it more the way people live only for themselves caring less about what others think. I see people living here in very big apartments but driving modest cars and dressing without brands. They are even humbled to talk about things.

[@Night-op7zf]

Why New Zealanders talk trash about Australia?

[@jg8303]

I saw the Jia scandal and for me was so freaking stupid......I can't imagine having to worry about what freaking brand I'm wearing constantly so people like me......I felt to sad for her but I saw her recently on her YT channel and she's looking better now....I hope this mentality changes soon.

[@whereisannah]

I remember when Song Jia was cancelled and was similarly confused why it was such a big deal. But being in Korea really shows you how much people care about appearances. Another video idea might be Koreans going into debt, especially since the new season of squid games is coming out. I don’t think many people know about how many people in Korea use “after pay” like systems (Even at a small clothing store, they’ll ask if you want to divide the payment over a few months). Anyways, another great video 🎉thanks Megan!

[@kristinesharp6286]

She did make tons per post. It is like lying about academic background.

[@inezamy9523]

I second this

[@Lexi2mee]

This is very enlightening. I've heard about how people in Korea are materialistic. Thanks for sharing your perspective.

[@brucehur2051]

whydoes she talk and act like blacks?

[@Senemova]

Koreans being materialistic is the reason I drop most of k dramas and skeptical about watching new series. I’m tired of seeing the ml’s watch collection or mc’s being awarded with a rich husband because they were hard working 😑 I mostly watch dramas with normal looking people and historical ones now

[@marthabakry7353]

My niece is married to a Korean man and they just had their second baby. I worry about her because he has actively shunned us and won’t come with her and the babies to visit. I appreciate your insights about Korean culture, it’s very helpful. Love to you and your beautiful family❤

[@bwin3401]

Sounds typically Korean. What I love is when Korean men blame all their issues on Korean women . . . or just any woman.

[@jenaumorgan]

I have to give it up to, Megan! because in all the years I've followed you, you never went the name brand way & have remained humble 👏🏼

[@princess-yy5gl]

Nothing wrong with it if she wanted to buy name brand. Can still be humble either way.

[@brucehur2051]

whydoes she talk and act like blacks?

[@serenity8901]

Tru, but I get what this person is saying. Especially with Korean society pressure. I live in the U.S. and I’ve never had high-end name brand shoes or clothes other than baby phat & fubu that was on sale. Finally, purchased a football jersey in my 30s once a store closed and had a sale. I don’t get the name brand fixation.

[@theonly6359]

@@brucehur2051 because she is black

[@10secondsofmylife]

love these videos! keep em coming! maybe for another video, can you talk about how you think society is going to change in 15 years in Korea with the birthrate being so low (closing of schools for example) and the generation dying out that built the wealth in the 80s/90s who are very traditional and conservative (example gay acceptance, ageism)?

[@MrsMeganMoon]

Oh wow~~ that topic would be super deep. Might take a lot of time to research etc. and interview people etc. but sounds like a great topic I could try to do ❤❤❤

[@brucehur2051]

whydoes she talk and act like blacks?

[@eemoogee160]

I often wondered if the day will come when 휴게소 highway rest stops no longer have trot music blaring from the vendors. 🎶🎵

[@sanyuelpuganda3581]

Thank you very much Ms. Moon for talking about Therapy! The world has lost so many talented South Korean entertainers! Since they are widely known, their demise affects people from all countries where they are revered for their talent.

[@MrsMeganMoon]

❤❤❤❤

[@brucehur2051]

whydoes she talk and act like blacks?

[@onespirit7094]

@@MrsMeganMoon I agree with her also. I love to watch the K-dramas but I also feel guilty sometimes when I am enjoying myself because I think about what those actors and actresses have to go thru just to survive. We have lost so many talented people who were not allowed to show their human side, they had to be perfect and smile no matter how much pain they may be in, they were not allowed to show any real emotion outside the drama. Such a shame that the fans contribute the majority of negativity towards them. The judgements aren't directed just to the actors and actresses but to their families also.

[@rachrach730]

I’ve been loving the content lately Megan! Does this societal pressure make you worry for your children in the future at all?

[@justmeagain7]

I was thinking of that,too. However: what are the options?: to live in the USA and get shot any day at any corner?. To live in fear about the next school mass shooting?. Maybe it would be better if she managed to go and live in another Asian country, for example.

[@richrich2862]

This is why I always tell people to read the book by a renowned plastic surgeon in the 60s called Psycho-Cybernetics - to do with extrinsic value and how we would put our own lives in danger to get that value from outside influence due to our self concept being underdeveloped. Great podcast 🎉

[@brucehur2051]

whydoes she talk and act like blacks?

[@tanyam9853]

This is such a thoughtful conversation opener, thank you for doing all the research and the way you’ve given the bigger picture that gets to the root of the issue and also humanizes the problem. It’s too easy to dismiss the whole culture for being superficial, but that can change when you understand the larger cultural context.

[@erinmcguire748]

The attitude of everyday Koreans treating people differently based on wealth, status, or beauty is probably the one thing that most drew me to Kdramas. It is so alien to me. It seems that the idea of learning from your experiences doesn't exist there. Like if you grew up poor and were treated like crap because of it, one should know that it feels terrible and therefore should never want to treat anybody else like crap for being poor. But this type of thing just doesn't seem to exist in SK. SK is so Westernized in so many ways that this type of behavior, being so different from how most Western cultures work, really stood out to me and had me diving into many rabbit holes trying to figure out if it existed in real life and I found that it did. Still blows my mind completely.

[@Olivaro10]

SK has very traditionl Chinese-style hierachy culture with western culture slapped on top of it quite recently and the combination seems to be very unhealthy. It's like Japan managed to form it's very own culture due to isolation that is strong enough to have preserved itself despite basically having been forced to open itself up to western culture and even though there are toxic aspects about Japanese culture as well, at least they value every profession as long as you are dedicating yourself to your job and you have the chance to go from "rags to riches/success". Hell, I think in Japan a master of a trade might be more respected than a graduate of a university depending on the subject. lol

[@SpringNotes]

​@@Olivaro10That's a fascinating attitude with the Japanese. And it's such a healthier mindset, for their society in general, compared to the Koreans.

[@Charvo75]

Kdramas definitely show the disrespect for lower class people. This probably ingrains this into everyday life because kdramas are very popular. I watched Terms of Endearment. It had a bunch of famous actors and actresses. Very sad drama.

[@AlexisBii]

That’s a really interesting observation. You would expect the opposite from a country with a history of so much struggle and poverty but the reality is so different

[@aikawaayumu-i3c]

@@Olivaro10 Japanese people who are similar in spirit to Koreans are more and more increasing recently. Especially around Tokyo.Young people's obsession with appearance and fanaticism to plastic surgeries are closer to Koreans.Japanese own values has gone. As the generational change progresses, Japanese Kanto region may become just like Korea.

[@Goldun-nah]

Being half Korean this was a major battle between being American and growing up in a Korean household.

[@AlexParkYT]

There is a lot of trauma and it's really tragic. It also is ad that it turns into a cycle but I think younger people are more aware of it now.

[@lindaanyona8407]

Maxing out credit cards to buy Goyard bags is not the flex Koreans think it is. Spending money on chanel scarfs that everyone has on the streets when you pay rent in a dirt cheap neighbourhood is stupid. Driving a Mercedes when you can barely afford a house or its maintenance is silly. I know of stories of people who lived in their expensive cars because they couldn't afford a house. I am not even going to assume you are rich because you come out decked in designer goods or drive an expensive car. Show me your house maybe I'll be impressed. Korea is a very funny society.

[@CheeseQueenAtTheCheeseShop]

100% agreed, you just described my upstairs neighbor in our cheap villa in Seoul. He has a nice BMW, wears designer clothes, but he lives upstairs from us in the tiniest accomodation of the villa.

[@lindaanyona8407]

@CheeseQueenAtTheCheeseShop struggling peeps drowning in credit card debt while trying to impress people that really don't even care about them. I always feel sorry for them because in my mind they are not supposed to be envied. The facade is what is killing many young South Koreans.

[@선족이단속반]

걍 그들의 삶의 방식이고 취향이니 존중해야지 굳이 당신과 생각이 다르다고 안타까움을 느낄 필요는 없다고 생각한다

[@lindaanyona8407]

@@선족이단속반 I feel sorry because people are struggling because of their poor decisions. Someone has to say it

[@dradjen]

This might contribute to how many poor elderly people there are. Spending money in their youth and not saving.

[@Lucifer_Blackstone]

As a highly sensitive person, social criticism is physically painful for me and that fear of pain is what keeps people in line. Despite this, I have chosen my own path but the pain is still there. I think people don’t want to love, they want to oppress. I think that is human nature. They have power in numbers to bully you and keep you in line. In my experience, this is hell.

[@Night-op7zf]

Take some panadol.

[@royaleasincasinoroyale9105]

Megan, this video just shows that you are such a down to earth beautiful person. Beautiful inside and out

[@juheehahn7473]

i agree

[@callunya]

I will say it’s a very humbling topic and provides opportunities for us to self reflect and analyze society. And our place within it. Thank you for sharing!

[@ICDeadPeeps]

There's also this parent guilt complex from working too much and from being away from their children for so long. The parents tend to shower their children with gifts to make themselves feel better (for being bad parent). More often than not, it was the parents who grew up dirt poor who valued material things a lot more as a sign of affection. I've witnessed this first hand both in Korea and in the U.S.

[@rxlxviii]

This is the same reason why Koreans like fair skin. If you have fair skin, you are most likely to have an indoor job which generally pays better than an outdoor job such as farming. The preference for fair skin isn't due to racism; it's due to social status.

[@Iamcoatcheckgirl]

Exactly

[@fatoumatacoulibaly1560]

Oh wow!

[@eftihiahe9743]

My mother is Greek and she told me that when she was young she had to help her parents with their field work. They had a lot of farming. She mentioned that she always wore a hat and tried to protect her skin from the sun because she didn't want to get tan. Precisely for the reason that farmers had brown skin and people with white skin were more distinguished.

[@선족이단속반]

정확하게 아닙니다 걍 대부분 한국인의 취향일 뿐입니다. 오히려 그을린 피부를 좋아하는 부류도 많습니다. 그럼 그많은 태닝샵은 뭐로 설명할건데 ? 도대체 피부색과 물질주의를 왜 엮는건지 한국인으로서 웃음이 나네요

[@tanithinkorea]

4:02 caught me off guard I burst out laughing at that clip because bus drivers really drive crazy sometimes. Thank you for making this video. The materialism is one of the things that makes me sad living in Korea because I’ve felt a lot of pressure because of it. Someone once asked me where I bought my Christmas tree and I said I bought it at Daiso and they laughed at me😅

[@tkg42015]

Love this! It's so insightful! Americans can totally understand the materialism, even if it's not at the same level. Plenty of people are trying to keep up with the Joneses, I mean that phrase was coined here! It would be cool if you covered the 4B movement!

[@msmaria5039]

4B?

[@tracyrams]

I love this commentary era❤

[@slee2695]

She switched because her fanbase wants to see all the negatives of Korea...while she makes money off the country

[@johanfrancois62]

Thank you for making me understand. I couldn’t understand how people leave that way.❤

[@brucehur2051]

why you talk and act like blacks?

[@jenniferwade4800]

Excellent video. I love that you’re putting out more content ❤

[@MrsMeganMoon]

Yeah~~~ I’m enjoying making more content etc. if there are things you want to see let me know~~

[@brucehur2051]

whydoes she talk and act like blacks?

[@TamaraZeiKhvibliani]

The Koreans that come to study and live here(the Netherlands) all tell me they wanted to escape the pressure on their status and looks..it's sad. It's their country but the invinsible pressure is making it very difficult to live freely like they can live here.

[@Night-op7zf]

They just want to visit red light district in Amsterdam

[@beepea]

I’ve really been enjoying these types of talking videos! It’s so cool to get insight into another culture and way of thinking.

[@aliceher9243]

Wow! The video provided an insightful perspective on the cultural significance of materialism in South Korea. I'm born and raised in the US, and I agree that family is the most important! It is unfortunate that they do not get to experience unconditional love growing up. 💔 😢 This cycle needs to end because everyone deserves to love and be loved.

[@lukaszepesi]

My mother loved me so much and I'm very grateful. Even going through tough times and being disabled I always had a foundation of self love positivity and optimism to fall back on because I recieved love as a child. It is very important. Feeling empty inside can help you push yourself and be more productive. But being content is also a good and valuable thing.

[@lesihate9615]

this was so insightful, thank you megan 🤧 this mentality can be found in some asian countries as well but korea takes it to the next level

[@longestpossiblename]

In all the many years I've watched your videos I've always been thanful for the honest no nonsense heart to hearts you've shared with us on so many topics. It's sad that the issue of materialism and the search for more is such a big one in Korea. It is a growing issue in many parts of the world and is both a source of and a result of the breakdown of our relationships with our loved ones. We all need to be vigilant against being pulled along with the trend and keep actively pursuing healthy deep relationships that are based on real and unconditional love. ❤️

[@mikloridden8276]

They might be rich, but their heart is poor. They’ll feel it later.

[@JustAn-gee]

This is totally unrelated to the video’s topic. Can you drop a make up tutorial for this look? Cause you look amazing!!! Also, thank you for sharing with us the reality of Korean society. A lot of us romanticize Korea because of K-pop, idols and kdramas but the reality is very different than what’s shown online and on TV. Thank you for the video!

[@bbrowngrooms]

You really are covering important topics. Thank you.

[@kevinta29]

I totally agree with you about spending tons of money in birthday events. Most important is get together with beloved ones and celebrate. Does not matter if its a big party or just a picnic at the park. In fact, a picnic would be way better and fun

[@chigangrel]

With the holiday season in swing, I'd like to hear about holidays over there! What are some we share, what are some unique to South Korea, holidays unique to America that you want to or tried to celebrate? Differences in shared holidays traditions? Also, that is so cool your wedding was in a museum! That's a dream! Have you done a weddings video before? I'd like to hear more stories about yours or friends that you've been to.

[@SpringNotes]

Thank you again for your insights on Korea !

[@Chounelina]

have you considered doing podcast? you have a great voice tone. I would for sure listen to this kind of content in a car.

[@kanykyboog]

Everything that you said …. Is truly accurate . I lived here for a year and I can absolutely testify how accurate your video is from my experiences…. Thank you Megan ❤️.

[@tanuki05]

I'm an older millennial with immigrant Korean parents. I was hoping this toxic part of the culture would have died down by now, but it seems like it's still alive and kicking. I can't imagine what toxic behaviors you've had to experience. Take care of your mental health!

[@tessw9744]

Love your point of view. Sounds like you are bringing balance to your family when it comes to what's important. That's pretty cool to hold on to what's really essential vs cultural norms that can steal your individuality. I like how you've navigated assimilating without losing yourself. That takes knowing when to compromise and when not. Smart cookie.

[@frostkiss2]

I know I'm repeating myself but I really love this educating format! There are so many questions I have about South Korea why and how things run there and are perceived by the citizen. I'm learning so much, thank you!

[@effygram8159]

Really great breakdown. I lived there for 4 years and the culture really got to me.

[@myshirayne2382]

Whoa this is an amazing video. Great to further comprehend the viewpoint from a deeper level.

[@noblestrength]

Megan I have been watching your videos for about 8 years and one of the things I admire about you, is your high moral character. Your perspective on this topics just confirms what I already knew about you. Many continued blessings to you. 🙂

[@gloriarios9076]

We have a saying in spanish that says, El que no tiene y llega a tener, loco se quiere volver. It's very fitting.

[@MrsMeganMoon]

First time hearing that. But it makes lots of sense.

[@brucehur2051]

whydoes she talk and act like blacks?

[@annaq8638]

You're a wholesome person, Megan Moon. I'm learning a lot from you about South Korea. Thank you for sharing.

[@raquelfigueroa5539]

You can tell who were poor by the clothes they wear, theyll dress themselves from head to toe with brand names , kinda like a walking talking ad wall. Lol

[@brucehur2051]

whydoes she talk and act like blacks?

[@manachanneI]

That resonates so much with me. I am from another place in western Asia, and I me Korean exchange students and the thing that surprised me the most is how well they fit it, like no culture shock . Everything you said resonates so well with how things are here too. I always loved drawing and fashion and cosplaying but here I am a uni engineering phd grad. I had the talk " we're much better than an art degree" by my parents in high school.

[@allisgood4648]

The poor try to look rich but the real rich people dress not to impress, they have stock investments and realestate.

[@arihomerxo]

I love to hear your insight in these deep dives on Korean culture! Please do more of those :)

[@meredithbrooks2858]

Sometimes I wonder what Korea/Koreans would be like without going through the war - there's definitely a part of materialism that's related to having nothing and starving - thanks for the insightful video!

[@Night-op7zf]

Every country has been thru war.

[@dessertcomes1st]

I appreciate you and this video so much. As an Asian living in a nearby Asian country, the culture couldn't be more different.

[@mushroomlena]

Your video topics have been so interesting lately! It seems very hard in South Korea for the younger generation with so much pressure.

[@kristynkarysova113]

I would really love to see a video where mister Moon shares insights about his experiences adjusting to the cultural aspects you brought to your relationship. It would be interesting to see what he found challenging (if anything) and what cultural aspects he appreciated, considering the big cultural differences between Korea and America.

[@Anjacina]

Great video! Your perspective is very well-thought-out and presented.

[@brucehur2051]

whydoes she talk and act like blacks?

[@bambi0607]

Megan, this was a great “deep dive” on why there is so much interest in living a life based on other people’s opinions. I appreciate this analysis. It truly brought a lot of clarity. Thank you!

[@usduchess1009]

The ranking at work is here in America too. 😑Korean ranking is wild though. I hope they try to do things to make them happy…rest up a bit. Thanks for the info! These videos are great 💕

[@Sabzworld77]

man America is heaven compared to Korea lol can't imagine living there

[@AbukAmanB]

Just love how you put everything to meaning, Yes Korean society has unique stories 😮that blow my mind

[@kwiyopta2024]

I remember my Korean husband's 5 y/o niece when I first met her. I was wearing a dress with an attached necklace like accessory. That's the first thing she noticed and kept looking at it. Afterwards , she went to her room and I followed her. I saw her rummaging through her jewelry pieces. LOL. Korea INDEED is very materialistic society even at such a young age .

[@욤미욤미-p9v]

Nailed it !

[@Solace030]

I dated this korean guy, who was so materialistic and superficial. I asked him why he had all these brand-name shoes. His show collection was over 30 shoes for a guy where i only own about 10. He wouldn't spend so much on clothes but go to a store where there was a sale for a known brand and buy it. He say because if you're dressed poorly people look down on you. People will know your status. So everytime we went out he would constantly check himself that he looked good. But man he was superficial. He would never compliment me on my personality or my strengths or character. It was always on my physique and how "pretty" i looked. He always looked proud when people complimented him when they saw me with him, but he never looked happy if i did something for him. He was very dismissive. Looked down on me for not being more than I was. Before anyone comes at me i did not date him because he's korean.

[@Yaythebunnylord]

First Megan, you have such a beautiful family, all sides! You are very blessed and I am always so impressed by seeing foreigners learn the language, assimilate (while maintaining), and thrive. I've lived here for over 7 years and everything you're saying is 100% why I am so looking forward to moving back to the US. I love Seoul, I'm very thankful for all that I've learned and the many amazing people I've been able to meet and share life with, but I can't do it anymore. Everything else I can see and make sense of, and even when you understand why folks are the way they are there are still lines in my mind that on a human level shouldn't be crossed and it's so hard to see it here daily. Hats off to you, you are an amazing, strong woman. Keep shining that light

[@renatadrew2503]

It's sad that we're as a society try so hard to outdo each other that we put or self in debt to keep up with each other .It's not good to be materialistic . We should not try to please people but try to please ourselves . If you don't have the money for it that means you don't need it

[@aizhanmanapova4298]

I lived in Korea for 6 months. I was impressed how disciplined and reserved the people were besides the people, who drive supercars and who drink. Supercar owners can do whatever they want, nobody says anything.

[@007sweetkitten]

Wow that was really deep! ❤& insightful.

[@MrsMeganMoon]

I’m glad it could help. There was more we could have shared about but from what I gathered this was what seemed to be the most impactful.

[@brucehur2051]

whydoes she talk and act like blacks?

[@jessicasparkle]

Love you, Sloan. Hang in there. You got this.

[@biekevanriel5231]

one world, so many differences, you need money, but it stinks...thank you for the inside,bless❤

[@Organicjasminetea]

Her kids are so lucky to have her as a mom ❤ That is insane my grandma is the same, she’s cares way too much about what others think. Her mom raised her like that and must always look presentable. The way she thinks always boggles my mind

[@morningrain13]

I remember one of the first questions that was thrown at me when I was trying to make friends while living there was " So at what university you went? what major you did and what is your job?" made me feel so uncomfortable. no one would ask that here in Europe when you first meet them. Once someone kept insisting that wants to know how much is my salary. I felt like I was aggressively interrogated for something I did wrong. Though my culture is sadly quite similar to korean culture, where people will talk negatively behind your back and judge you and image is important but its not as intense as in Korea.

[@toyland12]

This was so good and insightful. It explains so much observed behavior.

[@Lonilogo]

That is why there are so many suicide happenings in South Korea and Japan. Parents should nurture their children, give them unconditional love and support. Encourage them to perused their own career. Most Asian parents want their children to perused the job they would like to achieved but they couldn’t afford to when they were at their kids age. It is so sad to see that these parents see their children as an investment instead of loving children.