Finnish culture is a unique blend of deep respect for nature, strong community ties, and the harmonious coexistence of modern life with ancient traditions. As someone who moved from the bustling city life of South Korea, my experience of Finnishness has been a profound exploration of contrasts—between the bright, lively summer and the dark, cold winter; the calm, slow-paced lifestyle and the hurried tempo of urban living; the deep-rooted Christmas traditions, and the everyday moments that define the Finnish way of life.
Summer vs. Winter: A Tale of Two Extremes
In Finland, the seasons are starkly different, each offering its own beauty and challenges. The Finnish summer is a celebration of life and light. After long, harsh winters, the entire country seems to come alive. People flock to the lakes, nature trails, and forests, soaking in the warmth of the sun and the beauty of the endless daylight. This time of year is perfect for picking berries, swimming in lakes, and simply enjoying the tranquility of nature. The photo below captures a serene summer day by a lake, with vibrant blue skies and lush greenery—a stark contrast to the fast-paced, crowded beaches of South Korea.
Winter, on the other hand, is a time of introspection and endurance. The dark, cold months can be challenging, but they also bring their own kind of beauty and peace. The landscape, covered in a blanket of snow, is almost magical. It’s during this time that the Finnish tradition of sauna becomes even more significant. The combination of a hot sauna and a dip in an icy lake, as captured in the following photo, is not just a physical experience but a mental and spiritual one as well. It is a ritual that embodies the Finnish ethos of resilience and the deep connection to nature.
The Finnish Lifestyle: Calm, Slow, and Nature-Friendly
Coming from a country where life moves at a breakneck speed, the slow, deliberate pace of Finnish life was a refreshing change. In Finland, there is a deep respect for nature and a preference for simplicity. Activities like berry picking, as shown in the photo of the two dogs by a cabin in the woods, are common. These simple pleasures reflect the Finnish way of life—a life that values the quiet moments, the connection with nature, and the importance of family.
This lifestyle is a sharp contrast to the busy, crowded streets of Korea, where everything is fast-paced and efficiency-driven. In Finland, there is more emphasis on enjoying the journey rather than rushing to the destination.
Christmas in Finland: A Time of Family and Tradition
Christmas in Finland is a time steeped in tradition and warmth, despite the cold weather outside. Known as the home of Santa Claus, Finland has a rich Christmas culture. The photo of the beautifully decorated town square during Christmas captures the festive spirit that fills the air. Unlike the commercialized holiday season in many parts of the world, Christmas in Finland is about spending quality time with family, enjoying traditional foods, and embracing the simple joys of life.
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