Buzz
The cultural traditions of South Korea, rooted in Confucianism, boast a history of over 600 years. When traveling, studying, working, or residing in South Korea, it's crucial to be mindful of certain etiquette rules to swiftly assimilate and adjust to the lifestyle and people here.
The taboos in South Korea that we're about to unveil will serve as an invaluable guide for you when Booking Flights to South Korea. Avoiding these cultural misunderstandings is pivotal to prevent regrettable cultural misconceptions with the people of the land of kimchi.
Writing Names in Red Ink - A Forbidden Practice in South Korea
Koreans believe that only the deceased have their names written in red ink. Therefore, you should absolutely refrain from accidentally writing someone's name in red pen. They will interpret it as a curse wishing death upon them.
Writing Names in Red Ink - A Forbidden Practice in South Korea
Entering through the main gate of a temple - A Taboo in South Korea
Book your flight to Seoul to explore the temples. Avoid entering through the main gate; instead, use the side entrance and remember to leave your shoes outside. Also, refrain from sitting or standing directly in front of the main Buddha statue. Always dress respectfully and modestly in sacred places.
Avoid laughing or joking on subway trains or buses
When riding buses, subway trains, or other forms of public transportation. You are not allowed to freely laugh or joke around to avoid disturbing those around you.
Avoid laughing or joking on subway trains or buses
Especially, be sure to give up your seat to the elderly and pregnant women. If you don't want to receive unfriendly glances from everyone. Buses and subway trains are not places where you can freely chat loudly, you should speak softly.
Moreover, on South Korean subway trains, there are always seats designated for the elderly and pregnant women. The elderly are the most prioritized, so be sure to offer them your seat to demonstrate politeness.
Using the left hand - A Taboo in South Korea
When communicating with South Koreans, you must absolutely avoid using your left hand. Using the left hand in communication is considered offensive to the recipient. When giving or receiving something, it's best to use both hands to show respect for the other person.
Absolutely do not let the mouth of the bottle touch the mouth of the glass when pouring alcohol
When pouring alcohol for South Koreans, you must absolutely refrain from letting the mouth of the bottle touch the mouth of the glass. This action is strictly prohibited by Koreans. Pouring alcohol with the cup touching is considered a ritual offering to the deceased.
Absolutely do not let the mouth of the bottle touch the mouth of the glass when pouring alcohol
The Dining Culture of South Koreans
Similar to in some countries, inserting chopsticks into a rice bowl is akin to offering a bowl of rice for ancestral worship. Therefore, you must be cautious when offering a rice bowl to someone. Because if you insert chopsticks, they will interpret it as a curse.
When dining with Koreans, be mindful that they do not insert chopsticks into food or stick spoons into rice bowls. These actions are believed to bring bad luck. Therefore, pay attention to dining etiquette when sharing a meal with South Koreans.
Another dining etiquette to note is that the person who extends the invitation always pays for the meal. For subsequent meals, the inviter will be reimbursed by the invitee.
Wearing shoes indoors - A Taboo in South Korea
You must leave your shoes outside before entering a private home, or even your own room if you're staying in a traditional Korean-style guesthouse. Additionally, it's customary to bring a gift when invited to a Korean home.
Entering a Home with Shoes On - Taboo in South Korea
When you travel to any country, including when Booking Flights to Da Nang, observing local customs is always important. This helps avoid cultural misunderstandings between regions and countries worldwide.
Posted by: Tran Thien Quoc
Keywords: Discover 7 Forbidden Practices Every Traveler Should Know Before Visiting South Korea
