In Korea, the ‘Gen Z stare’ is redefining how young people communicate

A growing phenomenon called the “Gen Z stare” is attracting attention in Korea and abroad. It describes a new communication style among Generation Z, people born between 1997 and 2012.

The term refers to a behavior where someone keeps eye contact but stays silent during a conversation. First noticed in the United States, it originally described Gen Z employees silently looking at coworkers or customers instead of speaking. Social media helped the “Gen Z stare” become a viral meme and a recognizable generational trait.

The phenomenon is increasingly common in Korea. A university staff member in Seoul said they once asked a student worker if they had questions and got only a blank stare in return. Many others have shared similar experiences, making the “Gen Z stare” a hot topic on campuses.

Experts link the stare to digital communication habits. Gen Z grew up using smartphones and social media, so many prefer texting over face-to-face conversations. A 2024 survey found that 73.9 percent of Gen Z respondents preferred messaging, while only 11.4 percent liked phone calls, and 40.8 percent felt anxious during phone conversations.

Experts say the “Gen Z stare” is not necessarily rude. It reflects changes in how younger people communicate. After the pandemic, many Gen Zers became used to doing activities alone, which can make real-time social interactions harder. Organizations are encouraged to understand these differences and find ways to use Gen Z’s strengths.

Source : https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/southkorea/society/20250912/in-korea-the-gen-z-stare-is-redefining-how-young-people-communicate

Comprehension

What does the term “Gen Z stare” describe?
Which generation is considered Gen Z?
Where was the phenomenon first noticed?
How did social media influence the “Gen Z stare”?
Give one example of how the stare is observed in Korea.
What communication habits of Gen Z might explain this behavior?
According to the survey, what percentage of Gen Z prefers messaging?
What percentage of Gen Z respondents like phone calls?
Why do experts say the “Gen Z stare” is not necessarily rude?
What advice do experts give organizations regarding Gen Z communication?

Discussion

Have you ever noticed the “Gen Z stare” in real life? Describe the situation.
Why do you think Gen Z might prefer texting over talking in person or on the phone?
Do you think the “Gen Z stare” could be misunderstood by older generations? Why?
How has the pandemic influenced communication habits for young people?
How could workplaces adapt to the communication style of Gen Z employees?
Do you think face-to-face communication skills are important in school and work? Why or why not?
Can you think of other behaviors influenced by growing up with smartphones and social media?
How do you feel when someone gives you a silent stare during a conversation?
Should schools and workplaces teach communication strategies to help Gen Z?
What are the advantages and disadvantages of preferring digital communication over face-to-face conversations?

Vocabulary

Phenomenon – something that is observed to happen, often unusual or new.
Generation – people born around the same time who share similar experiences.
Viral – spreading quickly, especially on social media.
Blank stare – looking at someone without expression or response.
Digital communication – using devices like smartphones or computers to send messages.
Real-time – happening immediately, without delay.
Respondent – a person who answers questions in a survey or study.
Anxious – feeling nervous, worried, or uncomfortable.
Observe - to notice or watch carefully.
Communication style – the way a person sends and receives messages.