🤝 Do’s and Don’ts in Korean Social Etiquette
🤝 Do’s and Don’ts in Korean Social Etiquette
Immersing yourself in Korean culture is about more than just language—it’s also about knowing how to act politely and appropriately. In this detailed guide, you’ll learn key social etiquette rules, common behaviors in daily life, and how to connect respectfully with Koreans— all designed to help you study independently and keep learning right here on this blog.
🌼 Table of Contents
- Why etiquette is important
- Do’s: Respect & politeness
- Don’ts: Common mistakes
- Vocabulary & example phrases
- Practice exercises
- 🎓 Learn with me on italki
- Related posts & community growth
- Did You Know? – A cultural insight
☯️ Why Etiquette Matters
Korea places high value on respect, hierarchy, and harmony. Knowing the proper gestures and phrases helps you build trust and show genuine interest in the culture. Whether you’re meeting elders, sharing a meal, or traveling, good manners make a lasting impression.
✅ Do’s: Essential Etiquette Tips
- Bowing: A slight bow of 10–15° is standard when greeting elders or saying thank you. Deeper bows show greater respect.
- Two-hand gestures: Use both hands or support the wrist when giving/receiving items (business cards, gifts, drinks).
- Seating: In traditional settings, elders sit first or in the seat furthest from the entrance.
- Dining: Wait for the oldest to begin eating or invite you first. Many people say “잘 먹겠습니다” before eating.
- Polite language: Use honorifics like “-요” and “-습니다”. For example, “감사합니다” instead of casual “고마워”.
- Personal space: Koreans generally keep some distance in public and avoid very loud conversations, especially on public transport.
🚫 Don’ts: Social Mistakes to Avoid
- Don’t use first names with elders; use their title (직함) or add “님”.
- Avoid pointing with a finger—use an open hand or gesture subtly.
- Don’t tip in restaurants—tipping is not expected and may even be refused.
- Never write someone’s name in red ink—that has associations with death or funeral notices.
- Avoid showing the soles of your feet directly to others when sitting.
- Don’t blow your nose at the table—it’s considered rude; excuse yourself and go to the restroom.
📘 Vocabulary & Phrases
| Korean | Romanization | English |
|---|---|---|
| 안녕하세요 | annyeong-haseyo | Hello (polite) |
| 감사합니다 | gamsahamnida | Thank you (formal) |
| 실례합니다 | shillye-hamnida | Excuse me / Pardon me |
| 잠시만요 | jamsimanyo | Just a moment, please |
| 많이 드세요 | mani deuseyo | Enjoy your meal / Please eat a lot |
| 죄송합니다 | joesong-hamnida | I’m sorry (formal) |
💬 Sample Dialogue: Meeting Elders
| Korean | Romanization | English |
|---|---|---|
| 안녕하세요, 선생님. | annyeong-haseyo, seonsaeng-nim. | Hello, teacher. |
| 잠시만요, 도와 드릴까요? | jamsimanyo, dowa deurilkkayo? | Excuse me, can I help you? |
| 네, 감사합니다. | ne, gamsahamnida. | Yes, thank you. |
| 식사 맛있게 하세요. | siksa masitge haseyo. | Enjoy your meal. |
📝 Study Exercises
- Practice bowing and saying “안녕하세요” in front of a mirror using a gentle, natural angle.
- Role-play offering something politely (like a drink or book) using two hands.
- Write your own short dialogue thanking an elder or teacher using honorifics.
- Watch a Korean drama or variety show and note at least three etiquette behaviors you see.
👩🏫 Practice Culture & Politeness Live
Want to practice respectful speech and gestures in real scenarios? Join my 1-on-1 class on italki. We’ll role-play greetings, dining manners, and polite interactions so that you feel confident and respectful in Korean social situations.
Have you experienced Korean etiquette in real life or through dramas and K-contents?
Share a story or question in the comments — I’d love to discuss it with you! 😊
Did You Know?
In Korea, people often ask “식사하셨어요?” (“Have you eaten?”) as a casual greeting. This question reflects the cultural importance of food and caring for others—it’s similar to asking “How are you?” but shows genuine concern and hospitality.
