Introduction
Korean culture is rich in tradition, history, and customs that have been passed down for generations. It is essential to understand and respect these cultural practices when visiting or living in Korea. There are certain things you cannot do in Korean culture, and it is important to be aware of them to avoid offending the locals.
Do not wear shoes inside
In Korean culture, it is customary to take off your shoes before entering someone’s home or a traditional Korean restaurant. It is a sign of respect and cleanliness. Wearing shoes inside can bring dirt and germs from outside, which can be considered rude.
Do not pour your own drink
When drinking with friends or colleagues in Korea, it is customary for someone else to pour your drink. Pouring your drink yourself is seen as impolite and can be considered disrespectful. It is also customary to hold the glass with both hands when receiving a drink from someone older or of higher status.
Do not blow your nose in public
Blowing your nose in public is considered rude in Korean culture. If you need to blow your nose, it is best to go to a restroom or a private area. Sniffling is also considered impolite, so it is best to use a tissue or handkerchief.
Do not show public displays of affection
Public displays of affection, such as kissing or hugging, are not common in Korean culture. It is considered inappropriate to show physical affection in public, especially between couples. Holding hands is acceptable but keep it minimal.
Do not speak loudly
Koreans value modesty and humility. Speaking loudly in public can be seen as disruptive and disrespectful. It’s best to keep your voice low when speaking in public areas such as restaurants, cafes, or public transportation.
Do not disrespect elders
Respect for elders is an essential part of Korean culture. It is customary to use honorifics when speaking to someone older or of higher status. It’s important to listen and follow their advice and show gratitude for their assistance.
Do not refuse food or drink
In Korean culture, it is customary to offer food or drink to guests as a sign of hospitality. Refusing food or drink can be seen as rude, so it’s best to accept the offer even if you are not hungry or thirsty.
Do not tip
Tipping is not common in Korean culture. In fact, it can be seen as insulting since it implies that the person receiving the tip is not paid enough. Instead, it’s best to show appreciation by saying thank you.
Do not point with your finger
Pointing with your finger is considered impolite in Korean culture. Instead, it’s best to use your entire hand or head to indicate something.
Do not write someone’s name in red ink
In Korea, writing someone’s name in red ink is considered bad luck and can be seen as wishing harm on them. If you need to write someone’s name, use black ink.
Do not cross your legs in front of elders
Crossing your legs in front of elders is considered disrespectful in Korean culture. It’s best to sit with both feet on the ground and avoid pointing your feet towards someone older or of higher status.
Do not take the last piece of food
Taking the last piece of food can be seen as greedy and selfish in Korean culture. It’s best to leave some food on the plate as a sign of respect and appreciation for the host’s hospitality.
Conclusion
Korean culture is rich in tradition and customs that have been passed down for generations. It’s essential to understand and respect these cultural practices when visiting or living in Korea. These are just a few examples of what you cannot do in Korean culture, but by showing respect and following these customs, you can have a positive experience and build meaningful relationships with locals.
What things are not allowed in South Korea?
Korea has strict laws prohibiting the import of firearms, drugs, pornographic materials, seditious content, and counterfeit goods. For more information on the specific items subject to export controls, click on “export controls to the Republic of Korea.” This information is current as of August 2, 2022.
What is considered most disrespectful in Korean culture?
To prevent impolite behavior, it is recommended to avoid physical contact such as touching or patting, as well as direct eye contact between juniors and seniors in Korea. This is due to the country being very homogenous in terms of race and language.
What is cultural rules in Korea?
Demonstrating basic etiquette involves showing respect in various ways, such as deferring to the opinions of those who are older than you, waiting for their input, and lowering your gaze when interacting with elders. Additionally, it is customary to offer and receive gifts or food with two hands as a sign of respect.
What should you avoid when giving gifts in Korea?
Avoid gifting expensive items to Koreans as they may feel obligated to reciprocate with an equally valuable gift. Also, refrain from gifting knives or scissors as it symbolizes the end of a relationship. Other items to avoid include green headwear, gifts with red writing, and gifts in sets of four, all of which are associated with death in Korean culture.
What is illegal to bring to Korea?
The list of illegal drugs includes substances like opium, marijuana/cannabis, and cocaine, among others. It also includes items made from animals like elephants, leopards, and alligators, such as handbags, wallets, stoles, taxidermy, and ivory. Additionally, it encompasses financial instruments like cashier’s checks, overdraft checks, and postal money orders. This list is not exhaustive.
Are tattoos allowed in South Korea?
According to South Korean law, only medical professionals with proper licensing are allowed to operate tattoo parlors, while those without medical degrees are not permitted to do so. However, having a tattoo is not against the law, except for within the military where it is prohibited. People who have served in the military are allowed to get tattoos.
Do not interrupt others
Interrupting someone while they are speaking is considered impolite in Korean culture. It’s important to listen attentively and wait for your turn to speak. Interrupting can be seen as a sign of disrespect and can damage your relationship with the person you are talking to.
Do not eat or drink while walking
Eating or drinking while walking is not common in Korean culture. It is seen as impolite and can be considered rude. Instead, it’s best to sit down and enjoy your meal or drink.
Do not talk loudly on your phone in public
Talking loudly on your phone in public is considered disruptive and impolite in Korean culture. It’s best to keep your voice low and use headphones if necessary.
Do not open gifts immediately
Opening gifts immediately after receiving them can be seen as greedy in Korean culture. It’s best to wait until you are alone before opening the gift as a sign of respect for the person who gave it to you.
Do not sit in the “honored” seat
In traditional Korean settings, there is a designated “honored” seat, usually located at the head of the table or room. It’s best to avoid sitting in this seat unless you have been invited to do so by the host.
Do not forget to bow
Bowing is a sign of respect in Korean culture. It’s customary to bow when greeting someone older or of higher status. It’s also important to bow when saying goodbye or thanking someone for their help.
Do not be too direct
Koreans value indirect communication, so it’s best to avoid being too direct or blunt when speaking with someone. It’s important to use polite language and gestures to convey your message.
Do not forget to remove your hat indoors
Wearing a hat indoors is considered impolite in Korean culture. It’s best to remove your hat when entering someone’s home or a public building as a sign of respect.
Do not ask personal questions
Asking personal questions, such as age, marital status, or income, can be seen as intrusive in Korean culture. It’s best to avoid these topics unless the person you are speaking with brings them up first.