What should I avoid doing in South Korea?
South Korea is a beautiful and culturally rich country with strict social norms, traditions, and customs that visitors must observe to avoid offending locals. While the Korean people are hospitable and forgiving, it is always better to be aware of their cultural sensitivities to have an enjoyable stay. Here are some things you should avoid doing in South Korea:
Don’t refuse a drink or food
In South Korea, refusing a drink or food offered by a host or elder is considered rude and disrespectful. It is a sign of rejecting their hospitality and generosity. Therefore, always accept what is offered, take a sip or bite, and thank them for their kindness.
Don’t show excessive public displays of affection
Koreans are conservative when it comes to showing affection in public. Kissing, hugging, or holding hands in front of others is frowned upon and can make people uncomfortable. Avoid such acts to show respect for the local culture.
Don’t wear revealing clothing
Korea has a modest dress code, particularly in religious sites or public places. Revealing clothing such as shorts, miniskirts, or tank tops are not appropriate and can offend locals. Wear comfortable yet modest clothing to blend in with the locals.
Don’t tip
In Korea, tipping is not customary and can be seen as insulting. Service charges are already included in the bill at restaurants and other service providers. If you try to tip someone, they might refuse it or feel embarrassed.
Don’t stick chopsticks upright in your bowl
In Korean culture, sticking chopsticks upright in your rice bowl is associated with death and funeral rituals. It is an ominous gesture and best avoided to show respect for the local customs. Instead, rest your chopsticks on the side of the bowl or on a chopstick rest.
Don’t blow your nose in public
In Korea, blowing your nose in public is considered impolite and disgusting. It is best to use a tissue or handkerchief to wipe your nose and excuse yourself to a private place to blow your nose.
Don’t talk loudly on public transport
Koreans value peace and quiet, particularly on public transport. Talking loudly or playing music without headphones can be disturbing to others. Therefore, keep your voice down and avoid causing a disturbance.
Don’t address someone by their first name
In Korea, addressing someone by their first name is considered informal and disrespectful unless you are close friends or family. Use titles such as Mr., Ms., or their job title when addressing someone older or higher in status.
Don’t expect people to speak English
Although English is widely spoken in South Korea, not everyone can speak it fluently. It is best to learn some basic Korean phrases to communicate with locals and show respect for their language and culture.
Don’t take photos without permission
Koreans value privacy, and taking photos without permission can be seen as intrusive and rude. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people or their property, particularly in religious sites or private places.
Don’t ignore the elderly
In Korea, respecting elders is an essential cultural value. Ignoring or disrespecting an older person can be seen as a serious offense. Therefore, always show courtesy and kindness towards the elderly, greet them politely, and offer them help if needed.
Don’t disrespect Korean history or culture
Korea has a rich history and culture that locals take pride in preserving. Disrespecting their heritage or traditions, such as defacing historical sites or making fun of their customs, can be seen as insulting and offensive. Always show appreciation and respect for their culture to have a pleasant stay in South Korea.
What not to do when eating in Korea?
In traditional Asian dining culture, a bowl, chopsticks, and spoon are used. Chopsticks are for picking up dishes, while a spoon is used for rice and soup. It is considered impolite to hold both utensils at the same time, use chopsticks as skewers, or stab them into a bowl of rice, as this is a funeral ritual.
What things are not allowed in South Korea?
The list of illegal drugs includes opium, marijuana/cannabis, and cocaine, among others. This also includes items made from animals such as elephants, leopards, and alligators (e.g. medicines, handbags, wallets, stoles, taxidermy, and ivory), as well as financial instruments like cashier’s checks, overdraft checks, and postal money orders, among others.
Are tattoos allowed in South Korea?
In South Korea, only licensed medical professionals are authorized to open tattoo parlors, while individuals who do not have medical degrees are not allowed to do so. However, having a tattoo is not considered illegal except for in the military, where it is prohibited. After completing their military service, individuals can have tattoos.
What is acceptable in Korea?
Respect can be shown in various ways, including showing deference to those who are older than you by waiting for their input, lowering your gaze, and deferring to their opinion. When offering or receiving objects, gifts, or food, it is important to do so with two hands as a sign of respect.
Is it safe for an American to go to South Korea?
Is South Korea a safe place to visit? Absolutely. Visitors often remark on the country’s cleanliness, hospitality, and low incidence of crime, including crimes against tourists.
What does crossing legs in Korean mean?
If you cross your legs while sitting, it can be interpreted as a sign of laziness or disrespect towards the person you are with. Instead, it is better to sit upright and keep your hands on your lap to show attentiveness and honesty. Maintaining an open body language is important in communication.
Don’t be late
Koreans place a high value on punctuality and consider being late as a sign of disrespect. If you have an appointment or meeting, make sure to arrive on time or a few minutes early to show respect for the other person’s time.
Don’t cross your legs in front of elders
Crossing your legs in front of elders is seen as impolite and disrespectful in Korean culture. It is better to sit with your feet flat on the ground or cross your legs at the ankle level to show respect for their age and status.
Don’t speak loudly in public places
Koreans prefer a quieter environment, particularly in public places such as restaurants, cafes, and libraries. Speaking loudly can be seen as rude and disturbing to others. It is best to keep your voice down and avoid causing a disturbance.
Don’t forget to bow when greeting
Bowing is a traditional Korean greeting that shows respect and humility towards the other person. When meeting someone for the first time or greeting an elder, it is customary to bow slightly while making eye contact. The depth of the bow depends on the other person’s status and age.
Don’t use your finger to point at things or people
In Korean culture, using your finger to point at things or people is considered impolite and rude. Instead, use your hand or nod your head towards what you want to indicate. This gesture shows respect for the other person’s personal space and avoids being seen as confrontational.
Don’t talk about sensitive topics
Koreans are sensitive about certain topics such as politics, religion, and North Korea. Avoid discussing these topics unless you know the person well and are sure that they are comfortable with the conversation. Engaging in such discussions can lead to misunderstandings and uncomfortable situations.
Don’t forget to remove your shoes in certain places
In Korea, it is customary to remove your shoes before entering certain places such as homes, temples, and traditional restaurants. Look for signs or follow the locals’ lead to know when to remove your shoes. Forgetting to do so can be seen as disrespectful and unhygienic.
Don’t leave chopsticks on your bowl
Leaving chopsticks on your bowl is associated with funeral rituals and is considered an ominous gesture in Korean culture. Instead, place them on a chopstick rest or on the side of the bowl to show respect for the local customs.
Don’t be too aggressive or assertive
Koreans value harmony and modesty, and being too aggressive or assertive can be seen as rude and offensive. It is best to be polite, humble, and respectful towards others, especially elders or people in authority.
