Korean Etiquette Guide: Dos & Don’ts

What is the right way to say hello in Korea? Should you bow, shake hands, or try a mix of both? Can you wave at the waiter to order, or will that seem rude?

These little questions often come up the moment you start exploring Korea. The good news is that Korean etiquette is not difficult to learn.

Once you understand the basics, you will feel more confident whether you are sitting down to a meal, riding public transport, or visiting a temple.

In this guide, I will share the most important Korea travel etiquette tips. Think of it as a simple cheat sheet to good manners in Korea, helping you avoid awkward situations and show respect while enjoying your trip.

Greeting Etiquette in Korea

Let’s start with the basics: how you say hello. In Korea, a simple “annyeonghaseyo” with a little bow is all you need most of the time.

Handshakes happen too, but they are usually softer than what you might be used to, and it looks polite if you use both hands.

Here’s what I keep in mind:

• A smile goes a long way if your Korean is limited.
• Stick to family names with Mr. or Ms. unless invited otherwise.
• Use two hands when giving or receiving anything, even cash.

Korean Dining Etiquette

Now for the fun part: food. Eating in Korea is such a big part of the culture, and there are a few easy habits that make you look polite.

One quick rule: don’t eat until the oldest person at the table takes their first bite. After that, you’re good to go.

You’ll notice spoons are used for rice and soup, while chopsticks are for everything else. Try to avoid:

• Never stick chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice.
• Do not reach into shared dishes with your personal chopsticks if a serving spoon is provided.

Paying works a little differently too. In many restaurants, you’ll walk up to the counter instead of waiting for the bill at the table. And if you need a server, a little wave with a “jeogiyo” (excuse me) is totally fine. Nobody will think it’s rude.

Korean Drinking Etiquette: Soju, Beer, and More

Drinking is a big part of Korean dining, and there are a couple of unspoken rules.

If someone pours you a drink, hold your glass with two hands. Do the same when you pour for them. It’s just one of those cultural details that people notice.

If you’re sitting with someone older, turn your head slightly as you take a sip. You don’t need to empty your glass every time, but try to refill others before topping up your own. It shows you’re paying attention to the group.

And don’t worry if you don’t drink alcohol. Keeping your glass filled with water or soda is perfectly fine. These days, lots of Koreans are more relaxed about it, so it’s easier than ever to politely say no.

Public Transport Etiquette in Korea

The subway and buses in Korea are amazing, but there are a few unspoken rules

Line up neatly on the platform markers, let everyone off first, and then step inside. Once you’re in, keep your voice low. Trust me, loud phone calls really stand out here.

If the train is busy, carry your backpack in front or hold it by your side. Priority seats are clearly marked, and I never sit there unless I absolutely qualify. Even if they look empty, it is better to leave them for the people who really need them.

And don’t forget the basics. Tap in and tap out with your T-money card, and avoid eating or drinking on board. It keeps the space clean and polite for everyone.

Tipping Etiquette in Korea

I think one of the easiest things for visitors to get used to is the tipping culture, or really, the lack of it.

In Korea, you don’t need to leave a tip in restaurants, cafes, or taxis. High-end hotels sometimes add a service charge automatically, but that’s already included.

The only time I’d even consider tipping is on a private tour or if you hire a guide, and even then it’s optional. A simple thank you or a small token of appreciation can mean just as much here.

Photo Etiquette in Korea: What You Can and Cannot Do

Think twice before snapping a picture. Here is what I keep in mind:

• Always ask before photographing people.
• At temples and palaces, check for signs. Some areas are off-limits.
• The DMZ and other military zones are strict no-photo areas.
• Drones need permission, and many areas of Seoul are restricted.

Stick to these simple points and you will avoid any problems.

Temple Etiquette in Korea: How to Behave at Buddhist Temples

Temples in Korea are beautiful, calm spaces, and I always remind myself to slow down when I visit. Keep your voice low, dress modestly, and take off your shoes before entering temple halls or raised platforms.

I also pay attention to where my feet are pointing. It might not be something you think about at home, but in South Korea it is disrespectful to point your feet at the altar.

Photos are another one to check carefully. Some temples allow them, others don’t, so I make sure to look for signs or ask politely.

Shoes Off Etiquette in Korea: Homes, Hanok, and Restaurants

If there’s one habit you will notice right away in Korea, it’s taking your shoes off indoors.

Whether it’s a home, a hanok guesthouse, or even some restaurants, shoes come off at the door. I always look for a pile of shoes near the entrance. That’s the signal.

Most places provide slippers, and some even have special ones just for the bathroom. It keeps the floors clean and shows respect. It’s simple, but it’s one of those details that makes you feel more in tune with local life.

Jjimjilbang Etiquette in Korea: Korean Bathhouse Rules

A jjimjilbang is part bathhouse, part sauna, and part relaxation zone. If you go, here are the basics to remember:

• Tattoos can be an issue in some places. If yours are large or obvious, check ahead.
• In the single-sex baths, you are fully nude. Everyone else will be too, so it is normal.
• Always shower and scrub before entering the pools. Staff will expect it.
• In the co-ed sauna zones, wear the cotton clothes they give you.
• Keep your phone away and speak quietly. People go here to relax.

Smoking Etiquette in Korea: Where It Is Allowed

Smoking in Korea is much more restricted than you might expect.

You cannot just light up on the street anywhere. Look for small booths or marked smoking zones near subway stations and office buildings.

If you smoke outside of those, you risk a fine.

For non-smokers, this is actually nice. It means most public spaces are smoke-free and cleaner. I’d suggest scanning your surroundings before assuming it is okay. The signs are clear once you know to look.

Trash and Recycling Etiquette in Korea

Trash rules catch many visitors off guard. Public bins are rare, which means you may need to carry a small bag until you get back to your hotel or guesthouse.

Once you do, expect to sort your waste. Plastics, food waste, cans, and general trash often go into separate bins.

FAQs About Korea Travel Etiquette

Before You Go

Korea is welcoming, and most people will understand if you make a small mistake.

With these Korea travel etiquette tips in mind, you’ll not only avoid awkward moments, you’ll also enjoy a smoother trip

If you want to prepare more before your trip, these guides will help:

• South Korea Travel Tips
• Best Time to Visit Korea
• Korea T-money Card Guide
• Best South Korea Travel Apps