Etiquette and Taboo in South Korea

South Korea is known as the land of etiquette, and people in South Korea pay attention to social etiquette. South Korea, like other Southeast Asian countries, was influenced by Chinese Confucian culture. But in the past few years, Western culture has also influenced it.

South Korea

What etiquette and taboo should be considered before traveling to South Korea? We have compiled some information for you and hope it will be helpful to your trip to Korea.

Etiquette in South Korea

Greeting Rule

South Koreans usually shake hands when they meet. However, please use both hands or only the right hand when shaking hands. If the men or subordinates shake hands with the elders or the boss, the men or subordinates must first shake hands with the right hand, and then carefully place his left hand on the right hand of the elders or boss.

South Korean

In South Korea, women and children generally don't shake hands with men. Nodding or bowing is common etiquette.

The respectful word and honorifics are generally used in addressing. It is rude to call the other person by name in Korea.

Clothing Label

South Korean clothing is generally divided into traditional clothing and modern clothing. Traditional clothing mainly emphasizes ethnic characteristics, while modern clothing mainly conforms to international standards. The Koreans dress more solemnly and conservatively, not too avant-garde. Most women wear dresses, while men generally wear suits.

Hanbok

If you are interested in Korean folk costumes, you can rent Hanbok to take pictures in many places. If you have enough time, you can try it and it will leave a good memory.

Table Manners

For environmental protection, the South Koreans always provide iron plates no matter where they eat.

When eating with the elders, you must not move the chopsticks and eat first, and you cannot use the chopsticks to point to others. After eating, place the chopsticks neatly on the table top. It is not advisable to express yourself while eating. It is very embarrassing to make too much noise in the mouth when eating.

Budae Jjigae

At banquets in South Korea, guests and hosts usually sit around a square table with low legs. Sit on the floor with your legs crossed. In this case, do not touch your feet with your hands, do not stretch your legs and do not spread your legs apart.

Taboo in South Korea

1. Photography is strictly restricted in South Korea. If you want to take photos in South Korea, please make sure that there are no signs prohibiting taking photos in the area.

2. South Koreans don't like even numbers, especially 4. They think 4 is an unfortunate number. Therefore, there is no No. 4 building in South Korean architecture and no No. 4 table in the restaurants.

3. South Koreans don't like people calling their country North Korea because that word means being offended in the hearts of South Koreans.

4. When visiting a Korean house as a guest, please do not cut your nails on the house. If you want to make gifts, please note that the gifts cannot carry the brand made in Korea or Japan. Flowers or gifts with Chinese characteristics are a good choice. In addition, South Koreans generally don't open gifts in front of guests.

5. Smoking in South Korea also has many rules and taboo that must be followed. Smoking is prohibited in the office. You must smoke in the smoking room in restaurants, subways, airports and other public places. Smoking on the street is unethical behavior. If you are with the elders or women, you should get their consent before smoking.

6. The South Koreans value their prestige. If you want to reject them, do not say "no" directly. You can put it in a euphemistic way.

7. Korean law stipulates that Korean citizens must respect the national flag, national anthem and national flower. In theaters, the national anthem must be played before the performance and all spectators must stand up. In this situation, be sure to follow local customs.