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Maeum Spacing
Though not exclusive to South Korea, it is common for many people in the country to feel comfortable leaving their belongings unattended on a table in a coffee shop or restaurant. In sociology and anthropology, this concept is examined through the lens of "territoriality." Territoriality denotes the social and psychological sense of ownership individuals have over physical spaces, objects, or resources. It varies significantly across cultures and social contexts and is influenced by factors such as social norms, trust levels, and past experiences. For instance, in some cultures, there is a strong sense of communal ownership over public spaces, which fosters greater trust and reduces territorial behavior regarding personal belongings.

Professor of Korean Studies and cultural critic David Tizzard defined this phenomenon in the local context as "maeum spacing ". It is the act of feeling comfortable leaving one's personal belongings in a public space, it be a phone, a laptop, or any other possessions. In doing so, he suggests that, "This practice is widely accepted and respected, as it is seen as a way for people to establish their ownership over a space, and to signal to others that the table is already claimed."

The term mauem itself is sometimes translated in English as either heart or mind. It has no precise translation and reflects a difference in Neo-Confucian thought from Western modes of thinking which have sometimes emphasized rationality. Conversely, "maeum presents a unique  aspect of Korean philosophy by considering reason and emotion equally relevant elements of human existence."