Complete Guide to Korean Travel Etiquette! 8 Basic Rules to Avoid Embarrassing Yourself Locally

Feel at Ease Even on Your First Trip to Korea♪ Essential Culture and Etiquette to Know

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Are you planning a trip to Korea but feeling unsure about the local culture and etiquette?

Korean customs and rules may seem similar to those in Japan, but they are actually quite different.

If you go without knowing them, you might end up feeling embarrassed…💦

But don’t worry! This time, we’ll explain in detail the 8 basic etiquette rules you absolutely need to know when traveling in Korea.

As long as you keep these points in mind, there’s no doubt that locals will think, “What a well-mannered tourist!”✨

🚌 3 Things to Keep in Mind When Using Public Transportation

① Rules for Bringing Drinks on Buses

On buses in Korea, bringing takeaway drinks on board is prohibited!

This is a rule that would be hard to imagine in Japan, right? In general, anything that could spill is not allowed.

However, tightly sealed containers are permitted.

Avoid bringing convenience-store iced coffee or juice on board as is.

Choose something with a securely closed lid, such as a thermos or plastic bottle 🥤

② Subway Priority Seats Are Stricter Than You Might Expect

When riding the subway, be sure to check the color of the seats!

Dark pink seats or seats in a different color are reserved for senior citizens, pregnant women, and people with disabilities.

The rules are much stricter than Japan’s priority seating system, and healthy adults sitting there are very likely to be cautioned.

Confucian culture remains deeply rooted in Korea, and showing respect to elders is considered extremely important 🚇

③ Open and close taxi doors yourself

Taxis in Korea have manual doors!

If you're used to automatic doors in Japan, you may find yourself waiting out of habit, but make sure to open and close the door yourself.

The driver will also be waiting, so please try to get in and out smoothly🚕

🍽️ Important manners at restaurants

④ Strict no-smoking policy is an absolute rule

In Korea, all restaurants and eateries are completely smoke-free!

Restaurants, cafés, izakayas—no exceptions, smoking is prohibited everywhere.

Violations may result in a fine.

If you smoke, please use a designated smoking area or find an outdoor place where smoking is permitted🚭

⑤ Actively request anything you need

At Korean restaurants, it is common to ask for anything you need yourself.

Unlike in Japan, not everything is prepared for you from the start.

Remember these useful phrases:

• Wet towel: 「물수건 주세요」 (Mul sugeon juseyo)
• Apron: 「앞치마 주세요」 (Apuchima juseyo)
• Wooden chopsticks: 「나무젓가락 주세요」 (Namu jeotgarak juseyo)

Don't be shy—ask confidently😊

⑥ Korean barbecue restaurants generally require a minimum order for two people

At Korean barbecue restaurants, it is standard to order at least two servings.

If you would like to dine alone,

Let's check by asking, “「일인분부터 주문할 수 있어요?」（イルインブンプト チュムナル ス イッソヨ？/ Can I order from one serving?）”

🥩

💊🚽 Other Important Points to Note

⑦ Be Careful When Bringing Japanese Medications

What many people surprisingly do not know about is the regulations on bringing Japanese medications into the country. Ingredients contained in Eve, cold medicine, cough suppressants, and other medications may be subject to restrictions.

If you take medication for a chronic condition, we recommend checking with the Korean consulate or embassy in advance💊

⑧ How to Dispose of Toilet Paper

In Korean toilets, the basic rule is to throw paper in the trash can if there is one.

In older buildings, the pipes may be narrow, and flushing paper can cause blockages.

More toilets can be flushed normally these days, but if there is a trash can, use it instead🚽

Conclusion: To Enjoy Your Trip to Korea Even More

Knowing these manners will make your trip to Korea more comfortable and enjoyable.

By respecting the local culture and observing proper etiquette, you may even have wonderful interactions with Korean people✨

Korea is close to Japan and very popular as an overseas travel destination that is easy to visit.

But don't let your guard down just because it's close—prepare well and have a wonderful trip🇰🇷

I hope your trip to Korea becomes the best memory♪

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