Exploring South Korea: What to Avoid

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Exploring South Korea: What to Avoid:

Feeling a bit lost on your first trip to South Korea? Mytour has got your back, sharing insights on things you should steer clear of in the land of kimchi.

Exploring South Korea: What to Avoid:

1. Taking priority seats on the subway

In South Korea, subway cars always have designated seats for the elderly and pregnant women. Never treat it as an exciting experience and try sitting in those priority seats! You'll undoubtedly receive disapproving looks and uncomfortable remarks from everyone around.

2. Sticking chopsticks into rice

In the culture of most Asian countries, including South Korea, it's common to place straight incense sticks in a bowl of sand during funerals, symbolizing food for the souls. Sticking chopsticks into rice can evoke associations with this practice. Be mindful when dining!

3. Declining alcohol invitations from elders

When you receive an invitation to share a glass of soju or beer from older individuals, it signifies respect and camaraderie. Declining implies a reluctance to form connections with them, which is not advisable. If you don't drink alcohol, consider politely substituting it with any other beverage to reciprocate the gesture.

4. Facing elders when drinking

Once you accept an offer for a drink, turn your head while drinking. It's a sign of showing respect to your drinking companion.

5. Writing names in red ink

Many people in South Korea would genuinely be shocked, even feel offended if someone writes their name in red ink. Since ancient times, names of the deceased were written in red ink on registries and tombstones to ward off evil spirits. That's why you should avoid writing names in red ink in this country.

6. Sniffling at the dining table

You might be perceived as inconsiderate if you sniffle at the dining table, creating a strange noise and lacking hygiene. When eating with others, it's best to excuse yourself to a restroom, handle it discreetly, and wash your hands.

7. Receiving with one hand

Koreans highly value giving and receiving. Learn to use both hands when giving or receiving something, even when pouring water for others, to avoid being seen as impolite and disrespectful.

8. Wearing shoes inside someone's home

The reason is crystal clear: wearing shoes inside someone's home is an unhygienic practice. Korean lifestyles often revolve around the floor, with many families having low dining tables or even sleeping on the floor. Thus, maintaining a clean floor is crucial for them.

9. Clashing chopsticks at the dining table

Respecting the elderly is always a strict tradition in this country. No matter how hungry you are, patiently wait for the eldest person at the table to begin before you start eating.

10. Pouring water only into your own glass

If you do that, Koreans may think you only care about yourself and not those around you. When dining with friends or family, check if others need water and pour for them before filling your own glass. Doing so will surely leave a positive impression.

11. Lack of table arrangement skills

From an early age, Korean children are taught mealtime etiquette, including table preparation with utensils, chopsticks, plates, side dishes, napkins, water glasses, and more. If you're a foreigner, they don't expect you to know all of this. However, it will enrich their understanding of your cultural diversity.

12. Standing up and leaving the table before elders

If you leave the table before older individuals, it's considered impolite. Similarly, finishing your meal, arranging your utensils, and staying at the table may make them feel like you're waiting for them to finish. Pay attention to your eating pace to avoid finishing too soon.

13. Touching the shoulders or heads of elders or superiors

This is also deemed disrespectful behavior. In Korea, such gestures are only acceptable towards children or those younger than you.

14. Not sharing

In Korea, there's a cultural phenomenon known as the 'sharing culture.' Within a group or community, there's always a sharing of food or drinks, whether it's a little or a lot. This reflects your connection with people in society. Not sharing implies a hint of selfishness.

As per KEM/Seoulistic.com

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Reference: Travel guide Mytour

MytourOctober 10, 2014

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most important dining etiquette rules in South Korea?

In South Korea, it’s crucial to follow specific dining etiquette, such as waiting for the eldest to start eating and using both hands when receiving or giving items. Avoid sticking chopsticks into rice and don't sniffling at the table, as it may be seen as rude.

Why should I avoid wearing shoes inside someone's home in South Korea?

Wearing shoes inside a home in South Korea is considered unhygienic. Many Korean families sit on the floor for meals and sleeping, making it essential to keep the floor clean for comfort and respect.

How should I respond to alcohol invitations from elders in South Korea?

When invited to drink with older individuals in South Korea, it’s important to accept the offer as it signifies respect. If you don't drink, politely suggest a non-alcoholic beverage to reciprocate the gesture without offending.

What should I know about giving and receiving items in South Korean culture?

In South Korea, always use both hands when giving or receiving items, as this shows respect and consideration. This practice applies even when pouring drinks for others and is a crucial part of Korean etiquette.

Is it disrespectful to write names in red ink in South Korea?

Yes, writing names in red ink is considered offensive in South Korea, as it has historical connotations linked to death and funerals. Always opt for black or blue ink to avoid offending anyone.

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