The Soil and the Sanctuary: A Comparative Socio-Spatial Analysis of Domestic Proxemics and Hygiene Customs in East Asian and South Asian Traditions
Year: 2026
Type: preprint
Abstract: This study presents a comparative cross-cultural analysis of domestic spatial boundaries and hygiene rituals within East Asian (specifically Korean) and South Asian (Indian) traditions. Utilizing Edward T. Hall’s foundational Proxemics Theory and structural sociological analysis, this paper investigates how historical concepts of sacred space, spiritual purity, and physical soil shape modern domestic architectural habits—most notably the threshold boundary of shoe-removal customs. By examining the transitional zone of the household entry (the Korean HyeonGwan versus the Indian Deorhi or threshold entryways), the research uncovers distinct socio-spatial orientations. The East Asian model projects a collectivistic, absolute division where the domestic interior functions as an immaculate communal sanctuary entirely insulated from external public contamination. Conversely, the South Asian traditional model maps purity onto multi-layered, concentric zones within the home, where specific internal zones (such as kitchens and prayer areas) enforce strict barrier protocols. The findings demonstrate that while basic sanitary motivations are universal, the spatial packaging and architectural design of domestic boundaries rely heavily on deep cultural ontologies. This study introduces a unified comparative framework for Indo-Korean domestic sociology and expands current area studies scholarship on regional cultural management.
Author: Pandey, Shreya
Language: English
Subfield: Archeology (arts and humanities)
Field: Arts and Humanities
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7220458144