Korean etiquette: do's and don'ts for visitors

A handful of everyday customs shape how people interact in Korea, and getting them right goes a long way with locals. None of it is complicated, and Koreans are forgiving of visitors, but a little awareness helps you avoid the common missteps.

Greetings: the art of the bow

In Korea, a bow isn't just a nod; it's a fundamental gesture of respect. A slight bow from the waist, accompanied by "Annyeonghaseyo" (안녕하세요), serves as a polite greeting in most situations. In formal settings or when meeting someone older, a deeper bow is appropriate. Handshakes are common, especially in business contexts, but they come with nuances: offer your right hand while lightly supporting your right forearm with your left hand to convey politeness. (koreagonow.com)

Dining etiquette: sharing meals with respect

Meals in Korea are communal affairs, emphasizing harmony and respect. Before eating, it's customary to say "Jal meokgetseumnida" (잘 먹겠습니다), meaning "I will eat well," and after the meal, "Jal meogeosseumnida" (잘 먹었습니다), meaning "I ate well." These phrases express gratitude for the food and those who prepared it.

Handling utensils

• Chopsticks and spoons: Use chopsticks for side dishes and a spoon for rice and soup. Avoid sticking chopsticks upright in your rice bowl, as this resembles a funeral ritual. (koreahandbook.com)

• Passing food: When sharing dishes, use the serving utensils provided or the back end of your chopsticks to transfer food to your plate.

Drinking customs

• Pouring drinks: When pouring alcohol, hold the bottle with both hands, especially when serving someone older. Similarly, when receiving a drink, hold your glass with both hands. (koreahandbook.com)

• Drinking posture: If you're drinking with someone senior, turn your head slightly away from them when taking a sip to show respect.

Public behavior: maintaining harmony

Korean society values public decorum and consideration for others. Being mindful of these practices ensures smooth interactions.

On public transportation

• Priority seating: Seats marked for the elderly, pregnant women, and disabled individuals should remain vacant unless you qualify. Even if these seats are empty, it's customary not to occupy them. (knowaboutkorea.com)

• Noise levels: Keep conversations and phone calls at a low volume. Eating or drinking on subways and buses is generally frowned upon. (roughguides.com)

General public manners

• Personal space: While Korea's urban areas can be crowded, maintaining personal space is appreciated. Avoid unnecessary physical contact with strangers.

• Littering: Public trash bins are scarce, so it's common practice to carry your trash until you find a proper disposal point. Littering can result in fines up to ₩100,000. (knowaboutkorea.com)

Visiting homes and temples: showing reverence

Entering a Korean home

• Shoes off: Always remove your shoes before entering someone's home. This practice extends to certain traditional restaurants and guesthouses. (roughguides.com)

Temple visits

• Dress modestly: Avoid wearing revealing clothing when visiting temples.

• Photography: Always ask for permission before taking photos, especially during ceremonies.

• Behavior: Speak quietly and move respectfully within temple grounds. (knowaboutkorea.com)

Tipping culture: understanding gratuity

Tipping is not customary in Korea. In restaurants, cafes, and taxis, leaving extra money can cause confusion. Some high-end hotels and restaurants may include a service charge in the bill, but additional tipping is unnecessary. (roughguides.com)

Common taboos: actions to avoid

• Writing names in red ink: Traditionally, writing someone's name in red signifies death. Always use black or blue ink for names. (insightskorea.com)

• Pointing: Avoid pointing at people with your finger; instead, gesture with your whole hand.

• Blowing your nose at the table: If you need to blow your nose during a meal, excuse yourself and do so in private. (koreahandbook.com)

Language: basic phrases to know

Making an effort to speak Korean, even a few words from our language and Hangeul guide, is appreciated. Here are some useful phrases:

• Hello: "Annyeonghaseyo" (안녕하세요)

• Thank you: "Gamsahamnida" (감사합니다)

• Excuse me: "Sillyehamnida" (실례합니다)

• I'm sorry: "Joesonghamnida" (죄송합니다)

• How much is this?: "Eolmayeyo?" (얼마예요?)

• Delicious: "Masisseoyo" (맛있어요)

• Please give me...: "...juseyo" (...주세요)

• The bill, please: "Gyesanhae juseyo" (계산해 주세요) (knowaboutkorea.com)

Final thoughts

While Korean etiquette may seem intricate, locals are generally understanding of visitors unfamiliar with all the customs. A sincere effort to respect these practices will enhance your experience and leave a positive impression. When in doubt, observe those around you and follow their lead.

For more insights into Korean traditions and etiquette, explore our traditions and etiquette section.