1. Respect for Elders

One of the core aspects of Korean culture is the deep respect for elders. This respect is evident in how younger people address and interact with older individuals. It is common for younger people to bow slightly when greeting older people, and the language used is also different. Formal speech is expected when speaking to someone older, and using polite forms of the language (like the -yo ending) is a must. In social settings, younger individuals should also wait for the elder to begin eating or drinking before doing so themselves, which is a sign of respect.

2. Greeting Etiquette

-Use both hands for giving and receiving- When meeting someone, a handshake is common, but it’s often accompanied by a slight bow. It is customary for the younger person to offer their hand first or bow slightly as a sign of respect. Additionally, the handshake may be gentler than what you might be used to in Western cultures, reflecting the emphasis on humility in Korea.

3. Dining Etiquette

-Don’t stick your chopsticks into the rice when you dont eat and feel free to ask for a fork if needed- Don’t be afraid to call out for the waiter. Dining etiquette in Korea is particularly important, and it’s steeped in tradition. When sitting down to a meal, it’s expected that everyone waits for the eldest person to begin eating first. Additionally, when drinking alcohol, it’s customary to pour drinks for others rather than for yourself. When receiving a drink, hold your glass with both hands, or with one hand while supporting your arm with the other. This shows respect to the person pouring the drink. It’s also polite to turn your head slightly away from elders while drinking, to maintain modesty.

4. Gift Giving

When visiting someones home or meeting someones elders or family, bring a small gift. When someone moves house and invites you over, bring toilet paper or other. Gift giving is an important part of Korean culture, and it’s often done to show respect or appreciation. When giving a gift, it is polite to present it with both hands, especially if giving it to someone older. Avoid giving gifts in sets of four, as the number four is associated with death in Korean culture. It’s also considered thoughtful to wrap gifts nicely and to avoid overly extravagant presents, as the gesture of giving is what matters most.

5. Personal Space and Physical Contact

Keep your hands to yourself and dont freak out when it gets super crowded. Personal space is important in Korean culture, especially in public. While it’s not uncommon for people to be physically close in crowded places like subways, there is still an understanding of respecting personal boundaries. Public displays of affection, such as kissing or hugging, are generally reserved for private settings, especially when compared to more open Western cultures.

6. Shoes Off Indoors

-Doors = shoes off- In many Korean homes, it is customary to remove your shoes before entering the house. This practice is rooted in the belief that shoes can bring dirt and bad energy inside. It is also common in traditional Korean restaurants, temples, and some public spaces to ask people to take off their shoes. Be prepared to leave your shoes at the door when entering private homes or certain establishments.

7. Dress Code

Different areas and times mean different attires. Korean culture places a high value on appearance, and how you dress can say a lot about you. In general, Koreans dress well and prefer a neat, polished look. Whether you’re going out for a meal, a meeting, or just hanging out with friends, it's important to dress appropriately. In formal settings, business attire is expected, while casual clothing is appropriate for everyday activities. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing, as modesty is valued in public. It is very common to see women in very short skirts but modestestly closed upwards and no man in sweatpants.

8. Public Behavior

Keep calm and control your children. In public, it’s important to maintain a calm, composed demeanor. Speaking loudly or drawing attention to oneself is generally frowned upon. Koreans value social harmony, so behaviors that might disrupt that, such as arguing in public or acting overly expressive, are often avoided. It’s also polite to refrain from talking on the phone in quiet spaces like public transportation or in waiting areas.

9. Addressing People

If you dont know any Korean you can call out for “sasangnim” most of the time (Mr.). Korean names are typically written in the order of last name first, followed by the first name. When addressing someone, it is respectful to use their title or honorifics, such as Mr., Mrs., or even their job title, followed by their last name. For example, instead of calling someone by their first name, you would use their full name with the honorific attached.

10. Public Transportation Etiquette

DO NOT sit in Yellow, Pink or orange seats, if you don’t belong there! Blue or gray are your friends. Pink - pregnancy seats; yellow and orange - elderly, disabled or injured seats. Public transportation in Korea, especially the subway and buses, can get crowded, so it's important to follow etiquette. Speak quietly on the phone and avoid making loud noises. Priority seating is for the elderly, pregnant women, and those with disabilities, so offer your seat if necessary. Wait for people to exit before entering, and avoid pushing. Keep your backpack on your lap or at your feet, not on your back. Also, it's customary to avoid making eye contact with strangers and to respect personal space.

Conclusion

Remeber these 10 and there wont be awkward or uncomfortable situations because of cultural differnces or misunderstandings. If you do make a mistake, Koreeans are very forgiving, so dont worry and enjoy the country.