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Don't Be 'That' Tourist: A Guide to Korean Social Customs

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

You know about Korean BBQ and K-Pop. But do you know where not to sit on the subway? Or why everyone suddenly went quiet in the elevator? Korea is a high-context society built on respect and hierarchy. As a traveler, you get a "foreigner pass" for small mistakes, but following these rules will earn you genuine respect.

Here is how to navigate Korea like a local.

Dont Be That Tourist: A Guide to Korean Social Customs

1. The Art of the Bow (Insa)​

Bowing is the handshake of Korea.

  • The "Nod" (15°): A slight tilt of the head. Use this for convenience store clerks, taxi drivers, or people you see often.
  • The "Respect" (30-45°): Bending from the waist. Use this for elders, formal meetings, or when apologizing.
  • Eye Contact: Do not stare intensely while bowing. Lowering your eyes is a sign of modesty.

2. The Shoe Rule (Floor Culture)​

Koreans live on the floor. The "Ondol" heating system warms the floor, so it must be kept clean.

  • Where to remove shoes: Homes, Temples, Guesthouses, and Traditional Restaurants with raised platforms.
  • Pro Tip: Pack nice socks. If your socks have holes, you will be embarrassed eventually.

3. The "Two-Hand" Exchange​

Never give or receive anything—a credit card, a business card, or a gift—with one hand. It is considered dismissive.

  • Refined Technique: Offer the item with your right hand, and support your right forearm or elbow with your left hand.
  • Easy Mode: Just use two hands holding the item.

4. Public Transport: The Sacred Pink Seat​

This is the #1 mistake tourists make.

  • The Pink Seat: This seat is reserved for pregnant women only. Even if the car is empty and you are exhausted, DO NOT SIT THERE. You will receive angry stares from the "ajumma" (aunties).
  • The Yellow/Elderly Seat: Reserved for the elderly and disabled. Avoid it unless you qualify.
  • Silence: The subway is for commuting, not loud conversations. Keep your voice down.

5. Essential Taboos​

  • Red Ink: Never write a living person's name in red ink. In the past, this was used for deceased people or shamanistic curses.
  • Pointing: Don't point with your index finger. Use an open palm to gesture direction.

6. The Secret Weapon: Nunchi​

Nunchi translates to "eye-measure." It is the art of reading the room. If everyone is rushing (the "Pali-pali" or hurry-hurry culture), don't block the escalator. If the room is somber, don't be loud. Having "fast nunchi" is the highest compliment you can get as a foreigner.

Respect implies observation. Watch what others do, and you will be fine.