Spring is around the corner, and with warmer weather comes the perfect time to visit Korea. Whether you’re planning to see the cherry blossoms, explore the bustling streets of Seoul, or try all the amazing food, understanding local customs will make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.
To help you avoid awkward situations, here are five things you should never do in Korea.
1. Don’t Speak Loudly in Public
Koreans value harmony and social etiquette, and being overly loud—especially in confined public spaces like subways, buses, or cafes—is seen as inconsiderate. Talking loudly on the phone or laughing excessively in quiet settings can attract disapproving stares.
📌 What to Do Instead: Keep your voice low, especially when using public transportation or sitting in a quiet café. If you must take a call, step outside or speak in a hushed tone.
2. Don’t Use One Hand When Giving or Receiving
In Korea, manners matter, and using one hand to give or receive objects (especially money, gifts, or business cards) is considered rude. This is because it can come off as dismissive or lacking respect, particularly toward elders or superiors.
📌 What to Do Instead: Always use both hands when handing something to someone, or at least support your right hand with your left to show politeness.
3. Don’t Refuse a Drink from an Elder
Drinking culture in Korea is deeply rooted in respect and social bonding. If an older person offers you a drink, refusing outright may be seen as impolite. This is especially true in business settings or gatherings where drinking is part of social etiquette.
📌 What to Do Instead: If you don’t drink alcohol, you can politely explain, “I don’t drink,” and many people will understand. If you do drink, accept the offer with both hands and turn your head slightly away while taking a sip—this is a traditional sign of respect.
4. Don’t Leave Your Chopsticks Stuck in Rice
Placing chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice resembles a funeral ritual in Korea (and in many other Asian cultures). It is associated with death and bad luck, so it’s one of the biggest table manner mistakes you can make.
📌 What to Do Instead: Rest your chopsticks on a chopstick rest or lay them across your bowl neatly when not in use.
5. Don’t Ignore Age and Social Hierarchy
Korean society places a strong emphasis on hierarchy, and age plays a huge role in daily interactions. Calling someone older by their first name without an appropriate title (like hyung, oppa, unnie, or seonbae) can be considered disrespectful. Similarly, failing to acknowledge hierarchy in professional settings can hurt your relationships.
📌 What to Do Instead: Use honorifics (such as “-nim” for respect) and speak formally to those older than you until they say it’s okay to speak casually. Even in casual conversations, showing deference through gestures (like a small bow) is always appreciated.
Final Thoughts
As the weather warms up and more people plan trips to Korea, knowing these social norms will help you blend in better and avoid any cultural missteps. While Koreans are generally understanding toward foreigners, showing respect for local customs will make your experience much more enjoyable.
Now that you're prepared, all that’s left to do is book your flight! ✈️