10 Cultural Faux Pas to Avoid While Living in Korea

Moving to a new country can be an exciting adventure, but it also comes with the challenge of adapting to a new culture. South Korea, with its rich history and modern advancements, is a fascinating place to live. However, cultural misunderstandings can occur if you're not aware of local customs and etiquette. Here are 10 tips to help you avoid making cultural faux pas while living in Korea.

1. Understand the Importance of Hierarchical Relationships

In Korean culture, respect for elders and those in higher social or professional positions is paramount. Always use proper titles and honorifics when addressing someone, and be mindful of the Korean age system, which may place someone as 'older' than you even if they were born in the same year. For example, if you're introduced to a colleague, make sure to inquire about their position and address them accordingly, rather than using their first name.

2. Practice Proper Table Manners

When dining, wait for the eldest person to start eating before you do. It's also polite to hold your rice bowl or soup bowl with your hand while eating. Remember to never stick your chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice, as this resembles a ritual for the dead. If you're drinking alcohol with Koreans, turn your head away and cover your mouth with your hand when taking a shot if you're younger or in a lower position than the person pouring your drink.

3. Take Off Your Shoes Indoors

In Korea, it's customary to remove your shoes when entering someone's home, and often in certain traditional restaurants and guesthouses. There are usually slippers provided for indoor use, so make sure to change into these. Forgetting to take off your shoes can be seen as disrespectful and unclean.

4. Give and Receive with Two Hands

When giving or receiving anything, from a business card to a gift, use both hands as a sign of respect. If you're unable to use both hands, support your right arm with your left hand by touching your forearm or elbow. This gesture is seen as polite and shows that you're giving the interaction your full attention.

5. Be Cautious with Physical Contact

Koreans generally have a smaller personal space bubble than Westerners, but they are less likely to engage in physical contact, especially in public. Avoid hugging or back-slapping unless you're very close with someone. A bow or a nod is often the preferred greeting over a handshake, though handshakes have become more common in professional settings.

6. Learn Basic Korean Phrases

While many Koreans speak English, especially in larger cities, making an effort to learn the local language will be greatly appreciated. Simple phrases like "hello" (?????, annyeonghaseyo), "thank you" (?????, gamsahabnida), and "I'm sorry" (?????, joesonghabnida) can go a long way in showing respect for the culture and can help you navigate daily life more smoothly.

7. Respect Public Quietness

Koreans value a peaceful environment in public spaces. It's considered rude to speak loudly on your phone or have boisterous conversations, especially in places like the subway or buses. Keep your voice down and be mindful of the noise you make to avoid disturbing others.

8. Be Mindful of Dress Code

While Korea is modern in many ways, dressing modestly is still valued, particularly in the workplace and when visiting temples. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing, and make sure to dress appropriately for the occasion. For example, if you're visiting a temple, wear long sleeves and pants out of respect for the religious setting.

9. Understand Gift-Giving Etiquette

Gift-giving is an important part of Korean culture, especially when visiting someone's home or during holidays like Chuseok. It's best to avoid gifts in sets of four, as the number four is associated with death. Also, wrap gifts in bright colors like yellow or pink, as these are considered lucky.

10. Be Aware of Political Sensitivities

Avoid discussing sensitive topics such as North Korea, the Korean War, and Japan-Korea relations unless you're well-informed and the conversation naturally goes there. It's important to be respectful and listen more than you speak when such topics arise.

We hope these tips help you navigate Korean culture with ease and respect. If you have your own experiences or additional advice to share, join the conversation on Expat Exchange's Korea forum. Your insights could be invaluable to fellow expats!

Expats Confess Their Cultural Faux Pas in Korea

"It is important to be mindful of cultural differences when visiting Korea. It is considered rude to point with your index finger, so it is best to use an open hand when gesturing. It is also important to show respect to elders by bowing when greeting them. It is also important to remove your shoes when entering someone's home or a temple. Additionally, it is important to avoid public displays of affection, as this is considered inappropriate in Korean culture. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local customs and etiquette when dining, such as not leaving chopsticks sticking upright in a bowl of rice," commented an expat living in Korea.