Understanding Korean Etiquette: 10 Essential Do's and Don'ts for Tourists
Understanding Korean Etiquette: 10 Essential Do's and Don'ts for Tourists
South Korea is an incredibly welcoming country, and locals are generally very understanding of tourists. However, taking the time to learn a little about Korean etiquette will elevate your travels from a simple vacation to a truly respectful cultural exchange. Korean culture places a strong emphasis on respect, harmony, and social hierarchy. Following a few basic customs will not only help you avoid accidental offense but will also earn you smiles, appreciation, and a much deeper connection with the people you meet. Here are the 10 essential do's and don'ts to keep in mind on your trip.
1. DO Use Two Hands
This is perhaps the most important and visible sign of respect in Korea. When giving or receiving anything—whether it's a credit card to a cashier, a gift to a friend, or a glass of water—use two hands. If using two hands is awkward, you can use your right hand while supporting your right wrist or forearm with your left hand.
Why it matters: Using one hand can be seen as casual or even dismissive, especially when interacting with someone older or in a position of authority. Using both hands shows that you are giving the interaction your full respect and attention.
2. DON'T Stick Chopsticks Upright in Rice
Of all the dining etiquette rules, this is the most critical. Never, ever leave your chopsticks sticking vertically out of your bowl of rice. If you need to put them down, rest them on the side of your bowl or on a chopstick rest.
Why it matters: Chopsticks sticking upright in a bowl of rice resemble incense sticks used during funeral rites and ceremonies honoring the dead. Doing this at the dinner table is considered a serious faux pas and is associated with bad luck and death.
3. DO Respect Your Elders
Korean society is built on a foundation of Confucianism, where respecting elders and those in senior positions is paramount. This hierarchy is present in all aspects of life. While you won't be expected to understand all its nuances, a few small gestures go a long way.
Practical Tips: Wait for the oldest person at the table to pick up their spoon or chopsticks before you begin eating. If an elderly person is trying to get past you, step aside. A slight bow of the head when greeting someone older is a common and appreciated sign of respect.
4. DON'T Be Loud on Public Transportation
When you ride the subway or a bus in Korea, you'll immediately notice how quiet it is. People keep their voices low, and talking loudly on the phone is a major no-no. It's considered a shared public space where peace and quiet are valued.
Why it matters: Maintaining a quiet atmosphere is a way of showing consideration for the other passengers who may be tired, commuting to work, or simply resting.
5. DO Take Your Shoes Off Indoors
When entering a Korean home, a temple, or even some traditional restaurants and guesthouses, you must take off your shoes. There will usually be a designated area (a small step-up entryway called a *hyeongwan*) where you can leave your shoes.
Why it matters: This custom is rooted in both cleanliness (keeping the dirt from the outside separate from the clean living space) and tradition. Floors in traditional homes are used for sitting and sleeping, so keeping them clean is essential.
6. DON'T Pour Your Own Drink
When drinking with others, especially alcohol, you should never fill your own glass. Instead, you fill the glasses of others, and they, in turn, will fill yours. It’s a continuous, reciprocal act of generosity and friendship.
Why it matters: Pouring for others is a way of showing you are looking out for them. It fosters a sense of community and togetherness, which is central to Korean dining and drinking culture. For more details, check out our guide to Korean drinks.
7. DO Learn a Few Basic Korean Phrases
You don't need to be fluent, but learning a few key words shows that you've made an effort and are respectful of the local culture. The three most important are:
- Annyeonghaseyo (안녕하세요): Hello (formal)
- Kamsahamnida (감사합니다): Thank you (formal)
- Jwesonghamnida (죄송합니다): Sorry (formal)
Why it matters: Even if your pronunciation isn't perfect, making the effort is a gesture of goodwill that will be warmly received everywhere you go.
8. DON'T Tip
Tipping is not a part of the culture in South Korea. It is not expected in restaurants, taxis, or hotels. In fact, trying to leave a tip can sometimes cause confusion or be politely refused.
Why it matters: The price on the menu is the final price. Service staff are paid a regular salary, and good service is considered standard, not something that requires an extra reward. Simply paying your bill and offering a polite "Kamsahamnida" is the proper way to show appreciation.
9. DO Pass and Accept Items Respectfully
This is an extension of the two-handed rule. When you pay a cashier, don't just place the money or card on the counter; hand it to them respectfully. When they hand you your change or card back, accept it with a slight nod or bow of the head.
Why it matters: These small, polite interactions are the building blocks of social harmony in Korea. They show that you acknowledge and respect the person you are interacting with, no matter the situation.
10. DON'T Write Someone's Name in Red Ink
This is a less common situation for a tourist, but it's a fascinating cultural point to know. Avoid writing a living person's name using a red pen.
Why it matters: Historically, the names of the deceased were written in red ink on family registers, funeral banners, and memorial plaques to ward off evil spirits. Because of this strong association, writing a living person's name in red is considered extremely unlucky and is a symbol of wishing them harm or death.
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