Korean Etiquette: A Strict Social Code
South Korea has one of the most elaborate etiquette codes in the world. What's normal in Western countries can be shocking in Korea, and vice versa.
1. Never Pour Your Own Drink
In Korea, you never pour your own drink. Someone else pours for you, and you do the same for others.
2. Don't Give/Receive With One Hand
When receiving or giving something (money, business card, glass) to someone older, use both hands or your right hand supported by the left.
3. Never Stick Chopsticks Upright in Rice
Planting chopsticks vertically in rice resembles funeral rituals (incense sticks for the dead). It's very taboo.
4. Don't Refuse a Drink From an Elder
If an older person offers you a drink (soju, beer), refusing is very rude. At minimum, take a small sip.
When drinking in front of an elder, turn your head to the side.
5. Don't Use Casual Speech With Elders
Using banmal (casual language) with someone older is a serious offense in Korea. Even one year of age difference matters.
6. Don't Write a Name in Red Ink
Writing a living person's name in red is taboo in Korea — it's reserved for the names of the deceased.
7. Don't Blow Your Nose in Public
Blowing your nose loudly in public (especially at the table) is considered very rude. Excuse yourself to the restroom.
8. Don't Leave a Tip
In Korea, tipping doesn't exist. Leaving extra money can even be seen as insulting.
9. Don't Sit in Priority Seats on the Subway
Pink/marked seats are reserved for elderly, pregnant, and disabled people. Never sit there, even if the car is empty.
10. Don't Wear Shoes Inside
When entering someone's home, traditional restaurants, or temples, always remove your shoes.
11. Don't Ignore Table Hierarchy
The oldest person starts eating first. Wait for them to take the first bite before you begin.
12. Don't Talk Loudly on Public Transport
Korean subway and buses are remarkably quiet. Talking on the phone or having loud conversations is frowned upon.
13. Don't Forget to Bow
The bow (인사, insa) is the standard greeting in Korea:
- Slight (15°): daily greeting
- Medium (30°): thank you, first meeting
- Deep (45°+): sincere apology, great respect
14. Don't Point With Your Finger
Pointing at someone with your finger is rude. Use your whole hand, palm facing up.
Bonus: Things Koreans Find Normal (But We Don't)
- Asking age at first meeting → normal and necessary
- Sharing dishes in the center of the table → standard at restaurants
- Eating noisily (slurping noodles) → a sign of appreciation, not rudeness
- Physical contact between same-sex friends → normal (linking arms, holding hands)
Further reading: basic Korean etiquette (shoes, two hands, bowing), Korean politeness mistakes that actually offend, and for your trip, 30 essential phrases for South Korea.