7 Things Tourists Should Know Before Visiting Korea: Essential Local Etiquette Tips

Planning your first trip to Korea? The food, the K-dramas, the neon streets of Seoul, and the quiet temples will stay with you forever. But a few simple cultural habits can make the experience even smoother—and help you avoid accidental awkward moments.

Korean etiquette is rooted in respect, hierarchy, and consideration for others. You don’t need to master every rule, but knowing these seven practical tips will help you feel more comfortable and show that you’re making an effort. Here’s what locals actually notice.

1. Use Both Hands When Giving or Receiving Something

In Korea, the way you hand something over (or take it) matters. When dealing with someone older or in a formal setting, use both hands.

This applies to:

• Gifts

• Business cards

• Drinks

• Even small items like receipts or change

Using one hand can come across as casual or slightly rude, especially with elders. You’ll see Koreans do this constantly—supporting the wrist or forearm with the free hand is a common variation. It’s a small gesture that signals respect.

2. Take Your Shoes Off at the Entrance

In Korean homes, traditional guesthouses (hanok), and many traditional restaurants, shoes come off at the door. Look for a shoe rack, a raised wooden platform, or simply watch what others are doing.

Indoor slippers are often provided. If you’re unsure, just ask or follow the host’s lead. Wearing outdoor shoes inside is one of the quickest ways to make a Korean host uncomfortable, so this is one of the most important habits to adopt.

3. Keep Your Voice Down on Public Transport

Seoul’s subway and buses are generally quiet. Loud conversations, phone calls on speaker, or videos without headphones stand out—and not in a good way.

You’ll also notice priority seats (often marked in pink or with clear signage) reserved for elderly passengers, pregnant women, and people with disabilities. Some lines have dedicated pink seats specifically for pregnant passengers. Even when the train is packed, locals usually leave these seats free. It’s considered good manners to do the same.

4. You Don’t Need to Tip

Tipping is not expected in Korea. At restaurants, cafés, or in taxis, just pay the amount on the bill. There’s no need to calculate 15–20%.

In fact, leaving extra money can sometimes confuse staff. Service charges are already included where applicable, and good service is considered part of the job. Simply pay what’s shown and say thank you (kamsahamnida).

5. Let the Elders Eat First

When sharing a meal with someone older—whether family, a host, or older colleagues—wait until they begin eating before you start. This is especially observed at formal gatherings and family meals.

With friends your own age the atmosphere is much more relaxed, but the general principle of showing deference to elders still runs through Korean dining culture.

6. A Few Important Table Manners

Two key points stand out:

• Never stick your chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice. This resembles a funeral ritual and is considered bad luck or disrespectful.

• Koreans usually keep their rice bowl on the table rather than lifting it to their mouth (unlike some other East Asian cultures).

Use a spoon for rice and soup, and chopsticks for side dishes (banchan). When you’re finished, place your chopsticks neatly on the rest or across your bowl—don’t leave them scattered.

7. Ask Before Taking Photos of People

Street photography in Seoul is common and usually fine for buildings, food, and scenery. But if a person is clearly identifiable in your shot, it’s polite (and legally safer) to ask first.

Koreans have strong portrait rights. You can simply say:

“사진 찍어도 돼요?”(Sajin jjigeodo dwaeyo? – May I take a photo?)

If they say no, smile and put the camera away. Most people are friendly if you ask respectfully.

Koreans are generally understanding with foreigners who make an effort. These seven habits—using both hands, removing shoes, keeping public spaces quiet, skipping the tip, waiting for elders, following basic table etiquette, and asking before photographing people—will already put you ahead of most first-time visitors.

Save this list for your trip, and enjoy Korea with a little more confidence!