Korean Etiquette Guide: 20 Cultural Tips Every Tourist Should Know
Why Etiquette Matters in Korea
Korea is an incredibly welcoming country for tourists. Koreans understand that visitors don't know all the cultural rules, and they're generally forgiving when foreigners make mistakes. But making an effort to follow local customs shows respect — and Koreans genuinely appreciate it.
As a Korean, I want to share the cultural tips that will make your trip smoother and help you connect with locals on a deeper level. Some of these are obvious, some might surprise you, and a few could save you from an awkward moment.
Greetings & Social Interactions
1. Bowing Is the Standard Greeting
Koreans bow to greet each other — a slight nod of the head for casual situations, a deeper bow (about 30 degrees) for showing respect to elders or in formal settings. You don't need to bow deeply as a tourist, but a small head nod when meeting someone or saying thank you goes a long way.
2. Use Two Hands When Giving or Receiving
When handing someone your credit card, receiving change, accepting a business card, or passing food, use both hands or support your right arm with your left hand. This is a sign of respect and is deeply ingrained in Korean culture. You'll see Koreans do this constantly.
Easy rule: When in doubt, use two hands. It's never wrong to show extra respect, and Koreans will notice and appreciate the effort.
3. Age and Hierarchy Matter
Korean society places great importance on age and seniority. Among Koreans, the older person typically leads conversations, orders first at restaurants, and receives deference. As a tourist, you don't need to worry about this too much, but be aware that:
- Koreans may ask your age early in conversation — this isn't rude, it's how they determine the appropriate level of formality
- When drinking with older Koreans, turn your head slightly to the side when taking a sip (more on this below)
4. Handshakes Are Fine, Hugging Is Not
Koreans are comfortable with handshakes, especially in business or tourist settings. However, hugging, kissing on the cheek, or heavy physical contact with people you've just met is uncommon and can make Koreans uncomfortable. Keep greetings friendly but not too physical.
Dining Etiquette
5. Wait for the Eldest Person to Start Eating
If you're dining with Koreans, don't pick up your chopsticks until the oldest person at the table starts eating. This is one of the most important dining rules in Korea. At a restaurant with just your travel group, this doesn't apply — dig in!
6. Don't Stick Chopsticks Upright in Rice
This is a major taboo. Sticking chopsticks vertically into a bowl of rice resembles incense sticks at a funeral and is associated with death. Always lay your chopsticks across the top of a dish or on the chopstick rest.
7. Pouring Drinks for Others (Not Yourself)
When drinking with Koreans (especially soju or beer), pour drinks for others before yourself. Never pour your own drink — someone else at the table should fill your glass. If your glass is empty, someone will notice and pour for you. Similarly, keep an eye on others' glasses and refill them.
8. The "Turn and Sip" When Drinking with Elders
When drinking alcohol with someone older or more senior, turn your body slightly away and cover your glass with your free hand while taking a sip. This is a sign of respect. It might feel awkward at first, but Koreans will be genuinely impressed if you do this.
Drinking culture note: Koreans love drinking socially, and saying no to a drink can be difficult in social settings. If you don't drink alcohol, simply say "저는 술을 안 마셔요" (jeoneun sureul an masyeoyo) — "I don't drink alcohol." Most people will respect this without pressure.
9. Side Dishes Are Free and Refillable
Those small dishes of kimchi, pickled radish, and other banchan that come with your meal? They're complimentary and you can ask for refills. Just say "반찬 더 주세요" (banchan deo juseyo) — "more side dishes, please." This isn't rude; it's completely normal. For more on what to order, see our Korean food guide for beginners.
10. Tipping Is NOT Expected
Do not tip at restaurants, cafes, taxis, or hotels in Korea. Tipping is not part of Korean culture and can actually cause confusion. In some cases, staff may even try to return the money thinking you left it by accident. Just pay the bill and leave.
Public Behavior
11. Keep Your Voice Down on Public Transit
Koreans are very quiet on subways and buses. Talking loudly, making phone calls, or playing music without headphones will draw disapproving looks. This is one of the most commonly violated rules by tourists. Keep conversations at a whisper level on public transport. For a full guide to getting around, read our Seoul subway guide.
12. Never Sit in Priority Seats
The seats at the ends of subway cars (usually a different color) are reserved for elderly, disabled, and pregnant passengers. Do not sit in them even if they're empty and the train is crowded. This is taken very seriously in Korea — sitting in a priority seat as a young, able-bodied person will draw judgment from other passengers.
13. Remove Your Shoes Indoors
Always take off your shoes when entering:
- Someone's home (always)
- Traditional restaurants with floor seating
- Temple buildings
- Some guesthouses and hostels
- Dressing rooms at clothing stores
Look for shoe racks or a step-up at the entrance — these signal that shoes should come off. Wear socks without holes — your feet will be on display more than you expect! Check our seasonal packing guide for more on what to bring.
14. Queuing Is Expected
Koreans queue orderly for buses, elevators, and popular restaurants. Cutting in line is considered very rude. At subway stations, follow the floor markings that show where to stand while waiting for the train — stand to the sides and let passengers exit first.
15. Don't Blow Your Nose at the Table
In Western countries, blowing your nose at the dinner table might get a pass. In Korea, it's considered quite rude and unhygienic. If you need to blow your nose, excuse yourself and go to the restroom. Light sniffling, on the other hand, is perfectly acceptable.
Temple & Sacred Place Etiquette
16. Dress Modestly at Temples
Cover your shoulders and knees when visiting Buddhist temples. Some temples provide shawls or cover-ups at the entrance, but don't count on it. Avoid overly casual clothing like tank tops, very short shorts, or beachwear.
17. Stay Quiet and Respectful
Temples are active places of worship, not just tourist attractions. Keep your voice low, don't touch statues or religious objects, and be mindful of monks and worshippers. Photography is usually allowed outdoors but often prohibited inside temple buildings — look for signs.
18. Remove Shoes in Temple Buildings
You must remove your shoes before entering any temple hall. There's usually a shoe rack or designated area at the entrance. This applies to palaces with traditional floor rooms as well.
Photography & Privacy
19. Ask Before Photographing People
Korea has strong privacy norms. Taking photos of strangers without permission — especially close-up photos — is considered rude and can be illegal in some contexts. Street photography of crowds is generally fine, but if you want to photograph a specific person (a vendor, a monk, someone in hanbok), ask first with a smile and a gesture toward your camera. Most people will happily agree.
20. Camera Shutter Sounds Are Mandatory
You might notice that Korean phones always make a shutter sound when taking photos — this can't be silenced. This is a legal requirement in Korea designed to prevent secret photography. Don't be surprised by it, and don't try to find workarounds — it's there for a good reason.
Money & Shopping Etiquette
Bonus: Bargaining Is Limited
Unlike some other Asian countries, bargaining is not common in Korea. Fixed prices are the norm at most shops, restaurants, and even many market stalls. The exceptions are:
- Traditional markets — some vendors at places like Namdaemun Market will negotiate, especially for bulk purchases
- Electronics markets — Yongsan Electronics Market may offer small discounts
- Street vendors — if buying multiple items, you can politely ask "깎아주세요" (kkakkajuseyo) — "can you give a discount?"
Jjimjilbang (Korean Spa) Etiquette
Bonus: The Naked Truth
If you visit a jjimjilbang (Korean spa/bathhouse), here's what to expect:
- The bathing areas are gender-segregated and fully nude — no swimsuits allowed
- Shower thoroughly before entering any pool or bath. This is non-negotiable and other bathers will give you looks if you skip this step
- Don't stare at others — nudity is normalized in this context
- In the common areas (co-ed), you'll wear the provided uniform (shorts and t-shirt)
- It's a relaxing social experience — Koreans go to jjimjilbangs to unwind, socialize, and even sleep overnight
Quick Reference Card
| Do | Don't |
|---|---|
| Bow slightly when greeting | Hug or kiss strangers |
| Use two hands to give/receive | Stick chopsticks in rice |
| Take shoes off indoors | Sit in priority seats |
| Pour drinks for others | Pour your own drink |
| Keep quiet on the subway | Talk loudly on the phone |
| Queue in an orderly line | Cut in line |
| Cover up at temples | Touch religious objects |
| Ask before photographing people | Take secret photos |
| Say "감사합니다" (thank you) | Tip at restaurants |
The most important tip: Don't stress about getting everything perfect. Koreans are incredibly understanding of cultural differences, and the fact that you're trying is what matters most. A genuine smile and a polite attitude will take you further than memorizing every rule on this list.
Understanding these cultural norms will help you navigate Korea with confidence and earn respect from the locals you meet. For more practical travel tips, check out our guides on using the Seoul subway, must-try Korean dishes, and essential Korean apps for tourists.