Korean Etiquette You Should Know Before Your Next Trip to South Korea

Each country has its own set of social norms, values, manners, and etiquette that locals follow and practice. It is respectful for someone w...

Each country has its own set of social norms, values, manners, and etiquette that locals follow and practice. It is respectful for someone who is unfamiliar with a place to be aware of and try to learn these things.

If you have been an avid fan of Hallyu, you may have observed these things that Koreans do in their daily lives. If you are planning to visit South Korea, you should try to adhere to the following etiquette so that you can practice them while enjoying your trip.

1. Bow to greet people

In South Korea, people do not greet each other with words; it is often more respectful, especially when meeting people for the first time, to greet them by bowing rather than waving your hands at them—which may be considered rude unless you are close to the person you are greeting or they are your friends.

2. Use your two hands in handshaking

In addition to bowing, Koreans greet one another by shaking hands. To do it respectfully, use your right hand to shake other people's hands while your left hand supports your wrist.

3. Use formal titles when addressing someone

While it is normal or friendly to address someone by their first name in other countries, it can sound disrespectful in South Korea. So, it is advisable to address them with formal titles like Mr., Ms., Doctor, Teacher, Attorney, and so on. You can only do otherwise if they have given you permission.

4. Let the elder ones eat first

Koreans place a high value on respecting their elders, which can be seen even when they are eating. It is common practice to allow those older than you to take their seats first at the table and to allow them to have their first bite before you.

5. Look away when drinking

When drinking, Koreans usually pour each other's glasses. Also, when drinking with someone older than you or a senior colleague, it is polite not to drink directly in front of them; instead, face sideways and cover your glass while drinking the shot.

6. Leave your shoes by the door

When visiting someone else's home and places of worship, it is customary to leave your shoes by the door to show respect to the owners.

7. Offer and receive things with two hands

When handing or receiving something, it is polite to use two hands. Also, when passing or accepting a gift, drink, or food, you can use your right hand to offer or receive it, then place your left hand on your wrist to support your right hand.

8. No tipping

While giving a tip in restaurants and other places to show appreciation for their services is common practice in other countries, it may be considered an impolite gesture in South Korea, especially in places where there are "No tipping" signs.

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Written by: Niña Shane Cantero
Niña Shane Cantero is a Digital Marketing intern at PS Media Enterprise and an incoming fourth-year BA Broadcasting student at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines—Manila.