I recently heard a fascinating radio piece about nunchi, a Korean tradition centred on attuning to social cues and group dynamics. Often translated as “eye-measure,” nunchi is the subtle art of perceiving what others are thinking and feeling through context, nonverbal cues, and the atmosphere of a situation. In Korea, nunchi is taught from an early age and is considered essential for fostering harmony, navigating relationships, and succeeding socially.
In the West, while we don’t have a formal tradition like nunchi, we are no less observant. We’re deeply aware of unspoken rules, social hierarchies, and group dynamics, but we’re often reluctant to openly name or discuss them. These invisible structures shape our interactions, yet because they’re not explicitly defined, they can create uncertainty or anxiety. The absence of clear boundaries often increases the need for heightened awareness and careful interpretation of the unspoken agreements underpinning our relationships.
Without naming or questioning tacit norms, they can persist unchecked – even when they no longer serve the group’s best interests. This is where Drama for Change comes in.
Drama for Change uses the power of drama and storytelling to shine a light on the hidden assumptions and stories that organisations live by. Underlying narratives reinforce behaviours that lead to workplace issues such as non-compliance, unsafe practices, harassment, or exclusion. Perhaps because they are not acknowledged, they are resistant to the usual forms of training and communication. Drama provides a unique lens to explore the unspoken, and to use the power of your audience to transform the narrative.
By methodically surfacing hidden assumptions and fostering open dialogue in a safe, structured framework, Drama for Change empowers organisations to confront their collective stories and behaviours. It doesn’t just spark discussion – it inspires transformation, helping teams identify where hidden assumptions are holding them back and providing tools to rewrite those norms for a stronger, healthier culture.
Nunchi teaches us the importance of observing and adapting to the unspoken dynamics in social interactions. Drama for Change builds on similar principles by bringing those unspoken dynamics into focus, providing a space to question assumptions and rewrite the narratives that guide behaviour. In doing so, it equips organisations to create workplace cultures that are not only attuned to subtle cues but are also aligned with their values and goals.
