Your Essential Guide to Korean Manners and Culture
Welcome! You’ve booked your trip to Korea, mastered Hangeul basics, and you know the difference between Samgyeopsal and Bulgogi. Awesome!
But before you land, there’s one more crucial step: understanding Korean manners and etiquette. Korea is a high-context culture, meaning many social rules are unwritten and assumed. Knowing these customs isn’t about rigid formality; it’s about showing respect, building trust, and making interactions smoother and more enjoyable for everyone.
As a local, I’m going to walk you through the key cultural rules that will instantly make you look like a seasoned traveler, not a confused tourist!
1. The Power of Hierarchy and Respect (Jeongjung)
Korean society places a high value on respect based on age and position, known as Jeongjung (정중). This isn’t stuffy—it’s just a clear way of defining social roles.
Two Hands Are Better Than One: When giving or receiving anything—a business card, money, a drink, or a gift—always use two hands, or at least use your right hand supported by your left forearm. This is a fundamental sign of respect.
The Bow (Not Mandatory, But Nice): Foreigners aren’t expected to master the deep 90-degree bow. A slight nod of the head (Mori-man / 머리만) is a perfectly fine and friendly greeting, especially when saying thank you or goodbye.
Addressing People: Don’t just use first names unless explicitly told to. Use a title like nim (님) after a job title (e.g., Seonsaeng-nim for “teacher”) or the appropriate honorific for age (Oppa for older brother/guy, Eonni for older sister/girl).
2. Dining Etiquette: The Communal Table Rules
Korean dining is a shared, communal experience. These rules keep the flow smooth and respectful.
Don’t Start First: Wait for the oldest person at the table (or the host/server) to be served and to start eating before you pick up your chopsticks or spoon. This is a sign of respect for seniority.
The Pouring Ritual: Never pour your own drink (especially Soju). Wait for someone to pour for you. When pouring for someone older, hold the bottle with two hands. When receiving a drink from an elder, hold your cup with two hands, turn your head slightly away, and take a small sip. Never leave an empty glass unattended; it will be filled!
Chopsticks in Rice: Never stick your chopsticks upright in your bowl of rice. This is traditionally done for ancestor memorial rites and can be seen as bad luck or highly offensive.
3. Public Spaces and Personal Space (Nunchi)
Koreans are highly aware of the people around them, a concept called Nunchi (눈치). Having good Nunchi means being situationally aware.
Subway and Public Transit: Always let people exit the train or bus before you attempt to enter. Don’t block the door.
Personal Space: When talking to an elder or someone in a position of authority, maintain a bit more distance than you might be used to. However, in crowded areas like the subway or markets, expect to be bumped or squeezed—it’s part of the urban chaos and not usually meant to be rude!
Mouth Covering: It is polite to cover your mouth when laughing loudly or when using a toothpick (yes, it happens!).
4. Shopping and Convenience Store Culture
The ease of transactions in Korea is world-class, but there’s a simple rule of respect.
The Transaction Tray: When paying in a convenience store or market, if there is a small tray next to the register, place your cash or card directly on the tray rather than handing it directly to the cashier. This is a subtle way to standardize and formalize the transaction.
No Tipping: Tipping is NOT customary in Korea. Service is included in the price. Trying to tip a server or taxi driver can actually cause confusion or awkwardness.
Mastering these cultural guidelines will not only prevent awkward moments but will also deepen your appreciation for the thoughtfulness and harmony that define Korean social life. Enjoy your trip!