🔎 Visiting Korea soon? Discover the cultural mistakes to avoid and learn how to be polite like a local.
Are you planning to travel, study, or live in South Korea?
Korean culture places great importance on respect and social harmony,
and what might seem normal in your country could be considered rude in Korea.
Let’s explore the key etiquette tips and social don’ts every foreigner should know before stepping into Korean daily
life.
🇰🇷 Things You Should Never Do in Korea
1. Not Bowing When Greeting Someone You Don't Know Well
In Korea, people usually bow when greeting anyone who isn’t a close friend, including strangers, coworkers, neighbors, or elders.
Even a small nod or a slight bow with eye contact shows basic courtesy and respect.
🙅 Simply waving or giving a casual “hi” may come across as too informal or even rude, especially in more traditional settings.
You don’t need to do a deep bow—just slightly lowering your head is enough in most everyday situations.
The more formal the setting (like business or meeting someone older), the deeper the bow tends to be.
2. Talking Loudly in Public Places
Whether on the subway, bus, or café, keeping your voice down is
expected.
Loud conversations or phone
calls can draw unwanted attention or discomfort from others.
3. Wearing Shoes Indoors
In many Korean homes, traditional restaurants, and guesthouses, it's
customary to remove your shoes before
entering.
Look for a shoe rack or slipper area at the entrance.
4. Sitting in Priority Seats on Public Transport
The blue-colored seats on buses and subways are reserved for the elderly, pregnant women, or
people with disabilities.
Even if they’re empty, don’t sit unless you qualify.
5. Sticking Chopsticks Upright in Rice
Placing chopsticks standing in a bowl of rice resembles a funeral ritual, which is extremely inappropriate at a regular meal.
Instead, rest your chopsticks neatly beside the bowl.
6. Too Much Physical Contact
Friendly gestures like hugging, patting, or linking arms may be normal in your culture, but Koreans prefer more personal space—especially with strangers or acquaintances.
7. Leaving Tips
Tipping is not a part of Korean culture.
Offering tips may confuse or embarrass staff in restaurants or taxis.
8. Ignoring Drinking Etiquette
Drinking with elders or colleagues comes with its own set of rules:
-
Use both hands when pouring or receiving drinks
-
Turn your head to the right when drinking in front of someone older
-
Cover your mouth with your hand while drinking (optional, but respectful)
In Korea, drinking is a social ritual, and showing proper manners reflects your respect for the group.
❓ FAQ: Common Questions About Korean Etiquette
Can I use a fork instead of chopsticks?
Yes! Most restaurants will provide a fork if you ask. However, using chopsticks is more common in traditional
settings.
How should I greet someone older?
A simple bow and saying “Annyeonghaseyo” (안녕하세요) politely, while using two hands, is ideal.
Is
it okay to leave food on my plate?
A small amount is fine, but ordering too much and leaving it uneaten may be seen as wasteful.
📝 Final Thoughts
Korean etiquette is all about respect and awareness of others.
While it may feel unfamiliar at first, making an effort to follow local customs shows sincerity and builds positive
relationships.
With a little cultural understanding, you’ll find that kindness and consideration go a long
way in Korea.
And remember, locals truly appreciate foreigners who try to respect their ways. 😊
