Etiquette Rules to Observe in Korean Culture

South Korea is a country where traditional values are perfectly blended with modern life. This cultural balance is clearly evident in the daily lives of its people. For Koreans, respect, order, and social harmony are extremely important. Therefore, foreign travelers visiting the country should pay attention to local etiquette, which facilitates more harmonious communication with the society.

The first step to experiencing the culture is to complete your K-ETA application.

Forms of Greeting: The First Step of Respect

In Korean culture, greeting is not only a sign of politeness but also a symbol of respect. The traditional Korean greeting is performed by bowing slightly. This gesture expresses respect for those who are older or in a higher position. Although handshakes have become increasingly common, it is often preferred to use both hands. When shaking hands, holding the other person's arm with one hand symbolizes care shown to them. Additionally, it is customary to use the surname before addressing someone by their first name; as the level of intimacy increases, the suffixes “-ssi” or “-nim” are added after the name. These nuances are the cornerstones of social communication in Korea.

Table Manners: A Culture of Silent Respect

Korean cuisine is deeply intertwined with dining etiquette. At the table, no one should reach for another person's fork or spoon before the eldest person starts eating. This is a sign of respect for the elder. Furthermore, speaking loudly, laughing, or tapping utensils on the plate while eating is frowned upon. The soup and rice bowls are held on the table instead of in hand; unlike in Japanese culture, lifting the bowl is considered impolite.

Sharing food is an important part of Korean culture; many dishes on the table are communal. However, it is expected that everyone uses a serving spoon instead of taking food directly from the communal dish with their own chopsticks. To express gratitude at the table, one says “잘 먹겠습니다 (jal meokgetseumnida),” and after the meal, “잘 먹었습니다 (jal meogeotseumnida)” is said to express thanks.

Public Transport Rules: Silence and Order

In South Korea, public transportation is one of the areas where discipline is most felt. Silence is essential on the subway, buses, and trains; speaking loudly on the phone or listening to music is considered impolite. It is absolutely unacceptable for young or healthy individuals to sit in seats reserved for the elderly, pregnant women, and the disabled, even if those seats are empty.

Waiting in line for public transport is also an important behavioral rule. Before boarding the subway, people line up orderly and step onto the vehicle only after waiting for passengers to disembark. This order reflects the general understanding of respect in Korean society.

Gift-Giving and Hospitality Culture

In Korea, giving gifts is a way to strengthen social relationships. However, gifts are presented with both hands, not one. The same applies when receiving a gift. Opening a gift immediately is generally considered impolite; most people prefer to open it later. Additionally, bringing a small gift when visiting someone's home is a sign of appreciation for the host. This tradition clearly reflects the society's understanding of sharing and politeness.

The Gateway to Cultural Experience: Take the First Step with K-ETA

The first step for anyone wanting to truly experience Korean culture is to complete the K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) application required for entry into the country. This digital travel permit is not only a legal requirement but also the first conscious step taken towards Korea. Once your K-ETA is approved, you will have the opportunity to observe the profound culture of respect and etiquette that awaits you upon entering the country.

Korean culture is built on respect, order, and social harmony. Whether it is the forms of greeting, dining etiquette, or public transport rules, they all reflect the deep respect individuals have for one another. Paying attention to these rules is the simplest expression of respect for Korean society, not just as a tourist but as a guest.

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