10 Korean Etiquette Tips Every First-Time Visitor Should Know
South Korea is easy to explore, and visitors are not expected to know every social rule. Still, a few simple habits can help you feel more comfortable and show respect to the people around you.
1. Remove Your Shoes When Required
Korean homes generally have a shoe-removal area near the entrance. Some traditional restaurants, guesthouses, temples and indoor spaces may also require you to take off your shoes. Look for a raised floor, shoe rack or other customers’ shoes.
2. Keep Your Voice Low on Public Transportation
Subways and buses can be crowded, but passengers usually keep phone calls and conversations quiet. Use earphones for music and videos, and avoid blocking doors while waiting to board.
3. Let Passengers Get Off First
Stand to the side of subway or elevator doors and allow people to exit before entering. On escalators, follow local signs and current safety guidance rather than assuming one side is always for walking.
4. Respect Priority Seats
Seats marked for older adults, pregnant passengers and people with disabilities should remain available for those who need them. Some subway cars also have seats specifically designated for pregnant passengers.
5. Use Two Hands in Polite Situations
When giving or receiving money, a business card, a gift or a drink from an older person, using both hands is a polite gesture. You can also support your right wrist with your left hand.
6. Understand That Age Questions May Be Social
A Korean person may ask your age earlier in a conversation than you expect. Age can help determine appropriate speech levels and forms of address. You may answer approximately or politely say that you prefer not to share.
7. Wait for the Eldest Person at the Table
In a formal or family meal, people may wait for the oldest person to begin eating. Tourists are rarely judged harshly, but pausing briefly and observing the table is a respectful approach.
8. Share Food Carefully
Many Korean meals include shared dishes. Use serving utensils when available, avoid touching shared food unnecessarily and do not take more than you can eat. If you have allergies, confirm ingredients instead of relying only on appearance.
9. Tipping Is Usually Not Expected
Tipping is not normally required at Korean restaurants, cafés or in taxis. Pay the displayed price unless a business clearly explains a service charge or another policy. Exceptional tourism or private services may have their own practices.
10. Learn a Few Polite Expressions
- Annyeonghaseyo (안녕하세요) — Hello
- Gamsahamnida (감사합니다) — Thank you
- Joesonghamnida (죄송합니다) — I’m sorry
- Juseyo (주세요) — Please give me / please
A small effort to use Korean is usually appreciated even when your pronunciation is not perfect.
What If You Make a Mistake?
Do not worry. Most people understand that international visitors may not know every custom. A calm apology, friendly attitude and willingness to follow visible signs are more important than perfect etiquette.
Final Advice
Observe what local people are doing, follow posted instructions and ask politely when you are unsure. Korean etiquette is less about memorizing dozens of rules and more about being considerate in shared spaces.
Customs and facility rules vary. Follow the instructions provided at each location.
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