I (47M) work at a metal fabrication plant with a guy (40s M) from Korea. His English is very limited, to the point where most of the employees call him "Ya-ya", as that's how he responds to most interactions.

He's the nicest guy in the world. I know he's lonely, because he's asked me in the past to set him up with my girlfriend's friends (unfortunately, none are/speak Korean. He suggested that a Chinese woman would be okay, but he also speaks no Cantonese or Mandarin). For months, he's been giving me gifts of candy. It started as what I assume was a friendly gesture, offering me one of whatever he happened to have in his pocket. Then it escalated, to him giving me handfuls of assorted hard candy, caramels, mints, cough candies. Then fruit. Soft drinks. One time, a beer.

Now, it's gotten to the point where he will summon me via the plant PA system (I'm a technician that troubleshoots robot issues) just to press handfuls of candy into my hands (more than I could eat in a day) sometimes multiple times in a day.

I find this extremely unusual, and it's getting to the point where I'm almost becoming uncomfortable. Is he just lonely, trying to make a connection? Or is there something in Korean culture about giving food to a friend/boss/co worker? I'm confused as to why he thinks this would be appropriate.

Any insight would be appreciated!