Korea Etiquette: Do's and Don'ts for Visitors
What are the key etiquette rules in Korea? From shoes-off homes and two-hand gestures to dining and public-transport manners — the simple do's and don'ts that help you fit in.
Korean etiquette centers on respect and awareness of others: take your shoes off indoors, use two hands when giving or receiving, keep quiet on public transport, and follow your host's lead at the table. A little effort goes a long way, and locals are forgiving of honest mistakes.
- Take your shoes off before entering homes and many traditional spaces.
- Give and receive with two hands, especially with elders.
- Keep phone calls and loud talk to a minimum on public transport.
- At meals, wait for elders to start, and pour drinks for others, not yourself.
Everyday do's and don'ts
Respect for elders shapes much of daily etiquette. Use both hands when handing over money, cards or gifts, and a slight bow or nod makes a friendly greeting.
Keep public spaces calm: subways and buses are quiet, so loud phone calls stand out. Line up, and let people off before you board.
Tipping isn't expected and can even cause confusion — good service is standard and prices are as marked.
Dining etiquette
Wait for the eldest or your host to begin, and pour drinks for others rather than yourself — someone will refill your glass in turn.
Keep your rice bowl on the table and eat rice with a spoon; chopsticks are mainly for the side dishes.
Shared side dishes (banchan) belong to the table, so take modest amounts, and it's polite to try a little of everything.
Places that need extra care
Remove your shoes at homes, temple halls, and many traditional restaurants and guesthouses — look for a step up or a shoe rack.
At temples and memorials, keep your voice low, dress modestly, and follow the posted rules on photography.
When in doubt, watch what locals do and follow their lead — it's the simplest guide of all.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to tip in Korea?
No. Tipping isn't part of Korean culture and isn't expected in restaurants, taxis or hotels. Prices are as marked, and trying to tip can cause confusion.
Do I take my shoes off in Korea?
Yes, before entering homes, temple halls, and many traditional restaurants and guesthouses. Look for a step up or a shoe rack near the entrance.
What are common etiquette mistakes tourists make in Korea?
Talking loudly or taking phone calls on the subway, handing things to elders with one hand, starting a meal before the eldest, and pouring your own drink. None are serious — locals are forgiving of honest mistakes.
How should I behave on Korean public transport?
Keep quiet, avoid phone calls, give up priority seats, and let passengers off before you board. Eating strong-smelling food is also frowned upon.
Travel facts are checked against official sources with a verification date. Prices, schedules and visa rules change — always confirm at the linked official source before you travel.