Basic Korean Etiquette You Should Know

How to Be Respectful on Public Transport and in Restaurants

Planning to visit or stay in Korea?

Knowing a few basic etiquette rules can make your experience smoother—and leave a great impression on locals.

Korean society values respect, quietness in public, and being considerate of others.

Here are some simple etiquette tips for two everyday situations:

using public transportation and dining in restaurants.

🚇 On Public Transportation

1. Be Quiet
   Koreans usually stay silent or speak very quietly on subways and buses. Loud conversations, speakerphone calls, or music without headphones are considered rude.
2. Give Up Your Seat (If Needed)
   Seats marked for the elderly, pregnant women, or people with disabilities should be left empty unless you qualify.
   Even if the train is crowded, avoid sitting there.
3. Don’t Eat or Drink
   Unlike some countries, eating on public transportation is not common in Korea. It’s better to wait until you’re off the train or bus.
4. Wait in Line, Let People Exit First
   People line up neatly before boarding, and it’s polite to let others exit before entering. No pushing or rushing!
5. Wear Your Backpack on One Shoulder or Hold It
   To save space and avoid hitting others, many people take off their backpack during crowded rides.

🍲 In Restaurants

1. Wait to Be Seated (and Press the Bell)
   In many Korean restaurants, you don’t seat yourself. Staff will guide you.
   Some tables have a call button—press it if you need help instead of shouting.
2. Don’t Stick Chopsticks Upright in Rice
   This resembles a ritual for the dead in Korean culture. Lay them on the chopstick rest or across your bowl.
3. Share, But Don’t Double Dip
   Korean meals often involve shared side dishes. Use your spoon or chopsticks carefully—don’t dip after eating from them.
4. Thank the Staff with a Nod or a Simple ‘Gamsahamnida’
   You don’t need to tip, but a polite smile or “감사합니다” (gam-sa-ham-ni-da = thank you) goes a long way.
5. Clean Up a Little Before Leaving
   Stack your dishes, wipe spills, or return your tray if it’s a self-serve place. Koreans appreciate small acts of neatness.

🌟 Bonus Tip:

Even if you make a mistake, don’t worry—most people will understand.

Just showing a little respect for the culture goes a long way in Korea.

More topics coming soon:

• Elevator etiquette
• Visiting someone’s home
• What to say (and not say) to strangers

👉 Stay tuned—and explore Korea not just through places, but through people.