10 Etiquette Rules to Follow in Korea
1. Greeting Etiquette
- When meeting someone for the first time or greeting elders, it is polite to bow slightly.
2. Dining Etiquette
- It is customary to wait until the eldest person at the table starts eating before you begin.
- Do not lift your rice bowl while eating, and use both a spoon and chopsticks properly.
3. Using Honorifics
- When speaking to someone older or meeting someone for the first time, it is important to use polite speech (e.g., "-yo," "-seumnida").
4. Public Transportation Manners
- Seats reserved for the elderly, pregnant women, and people with disabilities should be left available.
- Keep phone conversations quiet and use earphones when listening to music or watching videos.
5. Waiting in Line in Public Places
- It is basic etiquette to stand in line at subway stations, bus stops, cafΓ©s, and other public places.
6. Taking Off Shoes Indoors
- In Korean homes, traditional restaurants, and some accommodations, you must remove your shoes before entering.
7. Business Card Etiquette
- When receiving a business card, use both hands and take a moment to look at it instead of putting it away immediately.
8. Waste Sorting & Recycling
- Korea has strict waste separation rules, so you must sort food waste, general waste, and recyclables properly.
9. Giving & Receiving Gifts
- When giving a gift, it is polite to hand it over with both hands.
- Sharp objects like knives or scissors are not considered appropriate gifts.
10. Photography Etiquette
- It is good manners to ask for permission before taking photos of people.
- Some temples or cultural heritage sites may have restrictions on photography.
Following these etiquette rules will help you have a smoother and more enjoyable experience in Korea! π