Koreans are generally welcoming and patient with international visitors. You won't be judged harshly for small mistakes — but understanding a few basics will make your experience noticeably better.
Greetings
A small bow (slight nod of the head) is the standard greeting. You don't need to bow deeply — a 15-degree nod is perfectly fine for casual situations. Handshakes are common in business contexts. Saying 안녕하세요 (annyeonghaseyo) — "hello" — with a smile is always appreciated.
Shoes Off Indoors
Always remove your shoes when entering a Korean home. Some traditional restaurants (especially those with floor seating) also require shoes off at the entrance. Look for a raised floor level or a row of shoes at the door as a cue.
Dining Etiquette
- Wait for elders to eat first before you start, if dining with locals.
- Don't stick chopsticks upright in rice — this is associated with ancestral rites.
- Pouring drinks: Pour for others at the table, not just for yourself. It's polite to top up others' glasses before your own.
- Receiving with two hands (or one hand supported at the elbow) is respectful, especially from someone older.
- It's completely normal to slurp noodles — no need to eat quietly.
Tipping
Korea does not have a tipping culture. Do not tip at restaurants, cafes, taxis, or hotels — it can sometimes cause confusion or awkwardness. The price you see is the price you pay.
Public Spaces
- Quiet on the subway: Koreans generally keep voices low on the subway. Loud phone calls or conversations draw attention.
- Priority seats: The pink/blue seats near the doors are reserved for elderly, pregnant, or disabled passengers. Avoid sitting there even if the carriage is empty.
- Eating on public transport is generally frowned upon (though it happens on longer trains).
At Temples and Traditional Sites
- Dress modestly — cover shoulders and knees when visiting temples.
- Be quiet and respectful. Religious ceremonies may be in progress.
- Ask before photographing monks or worshippers.
One Last Thing
Koreans take age and seniority seriously in social interactions. Addressing someone older with respectful language matters a lot in Korean culture. As a tourist you won't be expected to navigate this perfectly, but showing basic respect goes a long way.
