Coree is conducting a campaign called, "Excuse me. I'm sorry." Its goal is to change the common misconception that it is perfectly alright to bump into and push strangers out of the way while walking on busy Korean sidewalks without saying "Excuse me," or, "I'm sorry." Also we would like to raise the awareness, and interest of all people, both Korean and visiting foreigners, to solve this growing problem. It is, of course, important to recognize the origin of this problem to effectively take steps in solving it.

Understanding Korean People:

Koreans, like other Asian people, have had first-class manners in traditional times. However, for the past one hundred years, Koreans have gone through many hard spots leading to discrepancies in "good manners." From 1908 to 1945, the Japanese colonized the Republic of Korea leading to many changes in its society. Shortly after that from 1950 to 1953, the Korean people were engaged in a large civil war where tradition was set aside to make way for the means of survival of Korea's citizens. Lastly, from 1960 to 1990, a military dictatorship ruled Korea with harsh laws that made it difficult rekindle Koreans sense of tradition. In the past ten years, Korea has been on an uphill road leading to Economic and Social Freedom. Along this journey into the next Millennium, many Korean people have found it hard to remember the traditional values of their ancestors. It will take an active campaign, enlightening the minds of all Korean people to improve the quality of life for Koreans and Foreigners alike. Coree would like to begin this crusade by hitting the streets. How wonderful it would be for Foreigners, if bumped or pushed aside on the Korean streets, he or she would be met with a smile and the words, "Excuse me, I'm sorry."

The Campaign's Specific Tasks:

A signature-collecting campaign, and putting "Excuse me" or "I'm sorry" into action.

As a foreigner, you can start by saying "Excuse me, I'm sorry" in the Korean language.

1. "Excuse me" is "Sil-rye-ham-ni-da".
2. "I'm sorry" is "Mi-an-ham-ni-da".
3. "That' OK" is "gwan-chan-sum-ni-da".