Description
There's a up-and-coming lifestyle trend among young South Koreans.The YOLO or "you only live once" trend is so last year.The latest fad is more about being content with the small things in life and following your interests.Our Won Jung-hwan takes a look. Have you ever heard of "sohwakhaeng"? The Korean phrase, which translates to "small, but certain happiness,"… refers not to the intensity of the happiness you experience, but rather the certainty of a small amount of it. While this new lifestyle choice seems to be one of the leading trends in South Korea,... it differs from last year's buzzword, "YOLO" or "You Only Live Once." Unlike YOLO, that encourages people to live life regardless of what others may think, such as posting photos of experiences during trips,… "small but certain happiness" would place more value on who you travel with or how you plan the trip. For example, 36 year old, who regularly attends a meeting that plans travel, says sharing his opinion and tips with others fits the recent trend of seeking happiness. "While sohwakhaeng is similar to YOLO in terms of seeking a certain amount of happiness, it differs from YOLO as it provides more long-term contentment. I'm attending this group as I want to find lasting happiness." These small meeting platforms are emerging in Korea, especially among people in their 20s and 30s. 30 year old living in Seoul is into liquor tasting,… and says she's happiest joining a small group after work to learn about different liquors. "It's a small thing, but I feel happy to learn about liquors that go well with delicious food. I enjoy learning at this meeting because it's not something I attend to make money or anything,... but rather to increase happiness in my life." On the flip side, some experts say this renewed focus on small things comes from the fatigue young Koreans feel trying to chase big salaries and success. "There are lot of things employees should give up in their life,... that is why, there has been a lot of interest regarding happiness that can be attained without investing a lot of money or time,… and that growing interest especially among young employees is shown by these after-work group meetings." With the new 52-hour workweek system implemented this year, the desire to seek a better quality of life will grow stronger in Korean society. Although it will take some time to be fully embraced,... Koreans will eventually adapt and move past excessive competition or comparison with others, and seek their own happiness. Won Jung-hwan, Arirang News.