Cultural Etiquette in South Korea: Do's and Don'ts
South Korea is a country rich in history, tradition, and cultural values. Understanding Korean etiquette will help you show respect and blend in with the locals during your visit. This guide highlights the essential do's and don'ts for travelers in South Korea.
1. Greetings and First Impressions
✅ Do: Bow When Greeting
In South Korea, bowing is a common way to greet someone. A slight bow shows respect, and a handshake may follow, especially in formal situations.
❌ Don't: Use First Names Casually
Address people by their title and family name unless they invite you to use their first name. For example, say "Kim Sajangnim" (Mr./Ms. Kim, CEO) instead of just "Kim."
2. Dining Etiquette
✅ Do: Wait for Elders to Start Eating
It is customary to wait for the eldest person at the table to begin eating before you start.
✅ Do: Use Both Hands When Receiving Drinks
When receiving a drink from someone older or of higher status, hold your glass with both hands to show respect.
❌ Don't: Stick Chopsticks Upright in Rice
This resembles a ritual for the deceased and is considered bad luck. Rest your chopsticks on a chopstick holder or across your plate instead.
3. Public Behavior
✅ Do: Speak Quietly on Public Transport
Keep your voice low on buses, subways, and trains. Loud conversations or phone calls are considered rude.
❌ Don't: Eat or Drink on Public Transport
Eating or drinking on subways and buses is frowned upon, except on long-distance trains or buses where it is acceptable.
4. Respect for Elders
✅ Do: Offer Your Seat to the Elderly
On public transportation, give up your seat to elderly passengers, pregnant women, and people with disabilities.
❌ Don't: Call Elders by Their First Name
Use appropriate honorifics or titles when addressing older people. Not using them can be seen as disrespectful.
5. Gift-Giving Etiquette
✅ Do: Give and Receive Gifts with Both Hands
Present and accept gifts using both hands. This shows politeness and appreciation.
❌ Don't: Open Gifts Immediately
It is polite to open gifts later rather than in front of the giver unless they encourage you to do so.
6. Visiting Homes
✅ Do: Remove Your Shoes
Always take off your shoes when entering someone’s home. Indoor slippers are usually provided.
❌ Don't: Show the Soles of Your Feet
Sitting with your feet pointing toward others or exposing the soles is considered impolite.
7. Tipping Culture
✅ Do: Accept That Tipping Is Not Common
Tipping is not customary in Korea, and service charges are usually included in the bill. However, high-end hotels or taxis may appreciate small tips.
❌ Don't: Insist on Leaving Tips
Offering a tip may confuse or embarrass some people, so it’s best to follow local customs.
8. Personal Space and Touch
✅ Do: Respect Personal Space
Although Korea is crowded, people value personal space, especially with strangers.
❌ Don't: Touch Someone's Head
Touching someone’s head is considered disrespectful, even for children.
9. Photography Etiquette
✅ Do: Ask for Permission Before Taking Photos
Always ask permission before taking photos of people, especially in markets or traditional areas.
❌ Don't: Take Photos in Restricted Areas
Respect signs that prohibit photography in places like temples, museums, or military sites.
10. Environmental Etiquette
✅ Do: Sort Your Trash Properly
South Korea has strict waste separation rules. Dispose of recyclables, food waste, and general waste correctly.
❌ Don't: Litter
Littering is not tolerated, and public spaces are kept very clean. Carry small trash bags if needed.
Understanding and respecting Korean etiquette will help you enjoy a more immersive and positive travel experience. By following these cultural norms, you’ll leave a great impression and make meaningful connections during your trip to South Korea.