If you’re preparing for your first visit to Korea, learning a few basic Korea etiquette tips can make your trip smoother, more comfortable, and even more enjoyable.
1. Korea Etiquette Tips: Use Two Hands When Giving or Receiving
When someone hands you a drink, business card, or small gift, support it with your other hand or lightly touch your arm. This gesture shows respect and appreciation. Koreans notice this detail, and it often creates a warm and positive impression right away. It’s a small effort that goes a long way.
2. Don’t Speak Too Loud on Public Transport
Subways and buses in Korea are surprisingly quiet, even during busy hours. Most people listen to music with earphones or sit quietly. Keep your voice low, avoid speakerphone calls, and try not to play videos out loud. This is one of the easiest ways to show consideration for others.
3. Take Off Your Shoes in Homes (and Some Cafés)
Many Korean homes—and even some traditional-style cafés or tea houses—require shoes to be removed at the entrance. If you see slippers or a raised step, that’s your clue. Wear clean socks just in case! This custom helps keep indoor spaces clean and comfortable for everyone.
4. Return Trays and Clean Up After Eating
In food courts, college cafeterias, and many cafés, customers return their own trays. Look for the “반납구 (return area)” sign and follow what others do. Koreans value clean and organized public spaces, so leaving your table tidy is a simple way to show respect.
5. Don’t Tip at Restaurants
Tipping is not expected in Korea and can even confuse staff. Service charges are usually included in the price. Instead of tipping, just say “잘 먹었습니다 (jal meogeotseumnida),” which means “Thank you for the meal.” This phrase is warm, polite, and always appreciated.
6. Respect Personal Space in Lines
Koreans line up carefully at subway doors, bus stops, and cafés. There’s no need to rush or push—just join the line and wait your turn. People appreciate when visitors follow this quiet but important part of daily etiquette.
7. Learn Two Magic Words
A few Korean phrases can instantly make interactions smoother:
- “실례합니다 (sillyehamnida)” – excuse me (to pass by)
- “감사합니다 (gamsahamnida)” – thank you
Just using these two already makes you a polite and considerate guest.
Visit Korea – Etiquette & Culture Guide
Seoul Metro – Subway Manners
Korea.net – Understanding Korean Etiquette