Location: South Korea
Great for: Singles, Couples, Families, Groups, and Honeymoons
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Welcome to South Korea, a country rich in tradition and culture! A country of contrasts and tradition which is reflected in its cultural norms and etiquette. To help you acclimate to this environment, we're here to guide you through some essential cultural norms that may differ from those you are used to in the United States.
Bowing: The Universal Greeting
In South Korea, bowing is more than just a polite gesture; it's a way of showing respect. When meeting someone, a bow is a customary greeting. The depth of the bow depends on the level of respect or formality. A slight nod of the head works for casual situations, but a deeper bow, with the hands at your sides, is expected in more formal contexts. If you have ever taken or watched a Taekwondo class, you know what I mean. Don't worry if you're not a bowing expert; South Koreans are understanding and appreciative of visitors making the effort.
Removing Your Shoes
In Korean homes and many traditional restaurants, you'll be expected to remove your shoes before entering. It's a sign of respect and cleanliness. You'll usually find a designated area for shoe removal, and you may be provided with slippers to wear inside. To make this transition smoother, don't forget your best socks and opt for shoes that are easy to slip on and off.
Use Both Hands When Giving or Receiving
When giving or receiving something, especially money or a gift, it's customary to use both hands. This includes when someone is pouring you a drink. This simple gesture shows respect and signifies that you're offering or accepting something with sincerity. When passing money to a cashier or handing a gift to someone, remember to use both hands. This also applies when shaking hands. You will notice one hand on your wrist and the other used to shake.
Addressing People Respectfully
In South Korea, it's common to address people by their title or position, followed by their name. If you're unsure how to address someone, using their last name with an appropriate title like "Mr." or "Mrs." is a safe bet. In more informal situations, you can use the suffix "씨" (shi) after their last name, which is similar to addressing someone as "Mr." or "Ms."
Koreans put their last name first when stating their full name. This naming convention is known as the "Eastern order" or "family name first" and is also observed in other East Asian countries like China, Japan, and Vietnam. So when attempting to show respect by using a title, the first name they gave you at the introduction is their last name. For example, Park Ha-Jun would be referred to as Mr Park. It's important to note that in more casual or international settings, such as when Koreans interact with people from Western cultures, they may sometimes use the given name first.
Dining Etiquette
Korean cuisine is famous for its delicious flavors, spicy tastes, and a host of dining etiquette requirements. Here are some dining norms to keep in mind when dining out.
Eating:
Wait for the oldest or most senior person to start eating before you do.
Don't pick up your bowl when eating; leave it on the table.
Use chopsticks and a spoon, but never leave your chopsticks standing upright in a bowl of rice, it's considered bad luck and it is something that is done at funerals.
Slurping noodles shows you enjoy the food and is perfectly acceptable. Don't be surprised to hear this when dining.
Utensils may be in a drawer in the table so look for them there if they are not on the table.
Drinking
Don't pour your own drink; wait for someone else to fill your glass, and reciprocate the favor. Be sure to always receive the pour with two hands. If a glass is empty you are obligated to fill it, especially for someone older than you so keep your glass half full if you don't plan to drink too much.
Never refuse a drink, it is rude.
Turn away slightly when drinking if someone older than you is with you.
Time for the Bill
It is ok to shout for the waiter. They don't bother you like in the US so you will need to get their attention. Just don't be rude about it. Some places will have a "call button" to get the waiter's attention helping to avoid shouting. And some you'll pay the bill at the register.
Shhh! Silence on Public Areas and Public Transport
In South Korea, maintaining a respectful silence is the norm on public transport, particularly on buses and trains. You will be so surprised at how quiet it can be. Keep your volume low when speaking, and avoid talking on the phone. If you're playing music or watching videos on your phone, use headphones to avoid disturbing others.
Do not take the seats designated for elderly or pregnant women even if the seats are empty. This is considered terrible manners.
Personal Space
South Koreans generally have a smaller personal space radius compared to Western cultures. Don't be surprised if you find yourself in closer proximity to others, especially in crowded places. Be respectful of this difference in personal space and try not to make anyone uncomfortable. You may be elbowed or pushed, get used to it as it is NOT considered rude.
Don't Tip
Unlike in the United States, tipping is not a common practice in South Korea. In fact, it can sometimes be considered impolite. The service industry workers are paid a fair wage, so leaving a tip may be seen as a sign of not trusting the establishment's integrity.
Learn Basic Korean Phrases
While many South Koreans in urban areas may speak some English, it's always appreciated if you make an effort to learn a few basic Korean phrases. Even just saying "hello" ("안녕하세요" - Annyeong-haseyo) and "thank you" ("감사합니다" - Gamsahamnida) can go a long way in building positive connections. Watch for an article on helpful phrases coming soon.
Download the Papago translation app from the app store so that you can get those last-minute translations like "Can you bring me my bill". ( 나의 것을 가져다 줄 수 있습니까
계산서? nae goseul gajoda jul ssu itsseumnikka gyesanso)
PDA
Public displays of affection are looked down upon and seen as highly immodest among older individuals in South Korea. Holding hands is ok but beyond that is frowned upon. This has become less taboo with the current generation of young adults but is still widely discouraged by elders. South Koreans are uncomfortable being touched by someone who is not a relative or close friend. So "I'm a hugger" won't cut it there.
Don't Point with Your Feet
In South Korean culture, it is considered disrespectful to point your feet at people or religious objects. Avoid stretching your legs towards someone, and be mindful of your posture when sitting.
Remove Your Hat Indoors
It is customary to remove your hat when entering someone's home, a temple, or a traditional restaurant. Wearing a hat indoors is seen as impolite.
Respect Your Elders
Korean society places great importance on respecting elders. If you are sitting when an elder enters the room, it's customary to stand up and bow slightly to show respect.
Dress
Dress modestly in Temples and Palaces: When visiting temples, palaces, or other cultural sites, dress modestly. Avoid revealing clothing, and it's a good idea to carry a scarf or shawl to cover your shoulders if needed.
Be Patient Queues
There are 10 million people living in Seoul, South Korea. Lines in South Korea may not always be as orderly as you're used to. Be patient and wait your turn without causing a commotion.
Don't Discuss Sensitive Topics
It's advisable to avoid discussing sensitive topics like North-South relations, politics, and controversial historical events, especially with people you've just met. These topics can be delicate and potentially lead to uncomfortable situations.
Follow Laws
Mind the laws and don't get in any Soju-induced fights with anyone. Laws there favor the locals and not you so walk away. South Korea is a safe place according to the US State Dept but altercations can happen anywhere in the world.
As you immerse yourself in South Korean culture, remember that making an effort to understand and respect local customs is a wonderful way to connect with the people and fully appreciate the beauty of this vibrant country. South Korea is a land of contrast and tradition, and by embracing these cultural norms, you'll find your journey all the more enriching and memorable. Enjoy your adventure in South Korea, and safe travels!
At Vibrant Travel, we research, plan, and book vacations for busy travelers, couples, and groups looking for authentic experiences in Europe and beyond. We take the confusion of travel planning, the overwhelm of group organization, and hours of searching online off your plate and use our knowledge of the locations, vendors, and experiences to create a vacation you will love without the hassles, time, and stress of planning it yourself. Best of all we only work with vetted vendors who provide the highest quality services.
We specialize in select destinations that you might find on your bucket list; Ireland, Iceland, and Italy. But each year we create a group trip to bucket list destinations like Japan, Australia, Kenya, and South Africa to name a few.
The vacations we plan are the vacations we love to take ourselves so we can offer you experiences and places you may not have even considered but ones that will create memories that last forever.
Call today at 407-517-4744 to end the frustration of doing it all yourself. Ask about our group trips to Japan and South Korea.
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