Korean Funeral

Funerals everywhere are sad and somber. When a young person dies it is tragic and heartbreaking. My Korean co-workers brother died of a heart attack while on a business trip in Vietnam. This was especially difficult as they had to go to another country to get the body released.
The hospitals work with the families as the services are in the basement. There is no body just a picture with flowers. Which I was extremely glad. I hate the sight or presence of a dead body. The tradition is that a person bows 2 1/2 times to the dead and 1 time the family. It was a very nice ritual. A sense of mutual respect and sadness. Most Korean people do not touch each other, so hugs are not often given.
The family has another room across the hall where the eating and drinking takes place. The family stays at this place for nearly three days. So during this time, people can come and go as they please. Which I also felt was nice, as then there is not just one awfully sad and for me dreadful day. I was told that usually these wakes are usually more lively and up beat as they truly celebrate ones life. My co workers and I went after work on the first night of the wake, so that's why we went a t 1130pm. Most of the people from the school were there. I was a little embarrassed as I was a crying mess. No body else was shedding tears, but leave it to me, I can cry for a thousand people. I was not sure if I should go, as I did not want to offend the family, so I was a bit emotional at work when I asked if it would be alright. I think I have utterly confused the poor girls that I work with.
The verdict on funerals-- they are crappy no matter what country they are in.