Novel.

 After nearly 20 years read a novel today which I found amoungs my grand children's books. Luckily all 4 of my grand kids are fond of reading. Yes a Korean novel very interesting.

Found huge similarities with both here is a brief comparison.

Indian and Korean cultures, while distinct, share several similarities in living traditions, lifestyles, and values (excluding food). These parallels can be traced to ancient cultural exchanges and a shared emphasis on community and spiritual values. Here are some key areas of similarity:

1. Respect for Elders and Hierarchy

Both cultures deeply value filial piety and respect for elders:

In India, elders are greeted with gestures like touching feet.

In Korea, younger people bow and use honorifics in language to show respect.

Family hierarchy plays an important role in decisions and relationships.

2. Strong Family System.

Joint or close-knit families are common.

The family unit is central, with obligations to parents, siblings, and extended kin emphasized.

Parental sacrifice and duty towards children’s education and well-being are seen in both.

3. Cultural Ceremonies and Rites of Passage

Birth, coming of age, marriage, and death are marked by elaborate rituals.

Ceremonial clothing, music, and religious/spiritual rites are important in both cultures.

Ancestor worship or remembrance practices are observed (Shraddha in India; Jesa in Korea).

4. Traditional Clothing Emphasis

Indians wear sarees, dhotis, and kurta-pajamas on festive or traditional days.

Koreans wear the hanbok for similar occasions.

Both value modesty and elegance in traditional dress.

5. Importance of Education

High emphasis on academic excellence.

Children are expected to study hard and achieve success, often as a family pride.

Teaching professions and scholars are respected.

6. Spirituality and Philosophy

Deep-rooted spiritual traditions, even among secular populations.

Concepts like karma, rebirth, and harmony with the universe appear in both (India through Hinduism/Buddhism; Korea through Buddhism/Confucianism).

Temples, meditation, and pilgrimage are part of cultural life.

7. Community and Festival Spirit

Festivals are important and often involve families gathering, ancestral respect, and traditional performances.

Community bonding through shared rituals, music, and dance (e.g., Indian classical and Korean traditional dances).

8. Respect for Nature and Seasonal Rhythms

Traditional calendars in both cultures follow lunar cycles.

Nature and agriculture have sacred associations—harvest festivals like Pongal in India and Chuseok in Korea.

9. Marriage as a Social Bond

Arranged or semi-arranged marriages are still common.

Weddings are elaborate with multi-day rituals, family involvement, and emphasis on compatibility and family background.

10. Politeness in Social Conduct

Both cultures value humility, indirect communication, and politeness.

Speaking softly, avoiding open confrontation, and maintaining social harmony are appreciated.