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Cultural Etiquette in South Korea: 7 Rules to Avoid Awkward Moments

· 5 min read
Elena Vance
Elena Vance
Editor-in-Chief & Logistics Expert

Korea is one of the most welcoming countries for tourists. Locals are patient with foreigners, and you won't get arrested for a cultural faux pas.

But you will get side-eye if you stick your chopsticks upright in your rice. Or if you pour your own drink while an elder's glass is empty. Or if you sit in the priority seat on the subway while a grandmother stands.

Korean culture is built on Confucian values of respect, hierarchy, and harmony. Understanding a few key rules will make your trip smoother and earn you genuine smiles instead of polite tolerance.

Here's your no-nonsense guide to Korean etiquette.

Cultural Etiquette in South Korea: 7 Rules to Avoid Awkward Moments

1. Bowing: The Universal Greeting​

Bowing is how Koreans greet, thank, and apologize. The depth of the bow matters.

The Three Levels​

  • 15° Bow (Casual): A slight nod. Use this for saying hello/goodbye to shopkeepers, thanking someone, or casual greetings.
  • 30-45° Bow (Respectful): A deeper bow from the waist. Use this for elders, apologies, or formal situations.
  • 90° Bow (Extreme): A full, deep bow. Reserved for extreme gratitude or serious apologies. Tourists are rarely expected to do this.

Pro Tip​

If someone bows to you, bow back. Match their depth. If you're unsure, a 30° bow is always safe.

2. The Two-Hand Rule​

In Korea, using two hands shows respect and humility.

When to Use Two Hands​

  • Giving or receiving something from an elder or superior (business card, gift, payment).
  • Pouring drinks for someone older or of higher status.
  • Shaking hands with an elder (use your left hand to support your right arm).

The Exception​

If you're giving something to a peer or someone younger, one hand is fine.

3. Dining Etiquette​

Korean dining has specific rules, especially when elders are present.

Wait for the Eldest​

Never start eating before the oldest person at the table picks up their chopsticks. This is non-negotiable.

Chopstick Taboos​

  • Never stick chopsticks upright in rice. This resembles incense sticks at a funeral and is deeply offensive.
  • Don't pass food chopstick-to-chopstick. This is another funeral ritual. Place the food on a plate first.
  • Rest chopsticks on the chopstick rest, not across your bowl.

Sharing is Caring​

Korean meals are communal. Dishes are placed in the center, and everyone shares. Don't be surprised if someone puts food on your plate—it's a sign of affection.

Finishing Your Plate​

Try to finish your food. Leaving food can be seen as wasteful, especially in formal settings.

4. Drinking Culture​

Drinking is a huge part of Korean social life. There are rules.

Pouring Drinks​

  • Always pour for others first. Never pour your own drink if someone older is at the table.
  • Use two hands when pouring for an elder (or at least support your pouring hand with your other hand).
  • Keep glasses full. If someone's glass is empty, refill it.

The "Turn Away" Rule​

When drinking alcohol in front of someone older, turn your head and body slightly away while you drink. This shows respect.

Can You Refuse?​

Yes. Koreans are understanding if you don't drink. Just say:

  • "Jeo-neun sul mot-hae-yo" (저는 술 못해요) = "I can't drink alcohol."
  • Offer a reason (health, religion, personal preference). They'll respect it.

5. Shoes Off​

You must remove your shoes in:

  • Homes (always)
  • Some traditional restaurants (look for shoe racks at the entrance)
  • Temples (always)

Pro Tip​

Wear nice socks. No holes, no mismatched pairs. Koreans notice.

6. Public Behavior​

Korea is a quiet, orderly society. Here's how to blend in.

On Public Transport​

  • Be silent. No loud conversations or phone calls.
  • Priority seats (marked in pink or with elderly/pregnant symbols) are sacred. Do NOT sit there unless you qualify. Even if the train is empty, locals won't sit there.
  • Give up your seat for elderly, pregnant, or disabled passengers.

Escalators​

  • Stand on the right, walk on the left (in Seoul).
  • In Busan, it's the opposite (stand on the left). Just follow the crowd.

Blowing Your Nose​

Don't blow your nose loudly in public. It's considered rude. Step into a bathroom or turn away discreetly.

7. Age and Hierarchy​

Age determines almost everything in Korea.

Asking Age​

Don't be offended if someone asks your age within 5 minutes of meeting you. They need to know whether to use formal or informal language.

Titles Matter​

Address people by their title + name:

  • Teacher Kim (Kim Seon-saeng-nim)
  • Manager Park (Park Boo-jang-nim)

If you don't know their title, use "ssi" (씨) after their name (e.g., "Minho-ssi").

Final Thoughts​

Koreans don't expect foreigners to be perfect. They appreciate effort. If you accidentally mess up, a quick apology and a bow will fix almost anything.

The key is awareness. Watch what locals do, and follow their lead.

Want to dive deeper into Korean culture? Check out our Foodie's Guide to understand the soul of Korea through its food.