🤝 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).
- 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. Don’t eat until you hear “잘 먹겠습니다”.
- Polite language: Use honorifics like “-요” and “-습니다”. E.g., “감사합니다” instead of 그냥 “고마워”.
- Personal space: Koreans maintain some distance in public. Avoid overly loud conversations.
🚫 Don’ts: Social Mistakes to Avoid
- Don’t use first names with elders; use 직함(title) 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 in red ink on name tags—that’s reserved for funeral notices.
- Avoid showing the soles of your feet when sitting.
- Don’t blow your nose at the table—it’s considered rude.
📘 Vocabulary & Phrases
| Korean | Romanization | English |
|---|---|---|
| 안녕하세요 | annyeong-haseyo | Hello (polite) |
| 감사합니다 | gamsahamnida | Thank you (formal) |
| 실례합니다 | shillye-hamnida | Excuse me / Sorry |
| 잠시만요 | jamsimanyo | Just a moment, please |
| 많이 드세요 | mani deuseyo | Enjoy your meal |
| 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 mas-itge haseyo. | Enjoy your meal. |
📝 Study Exercises
- Practice bowing and saying “안녕하세요” in front of a mirror.
- Role-play offering something politely using two hands.
- Write your own dialogue thanking an elder or teacher using honorifics.
- Observe a Korean show and note 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.
Have you experienced Korean etiquette in real life or media?
Share a story or question in the comments — I’d love to discuss it with you! 😊
Did You Know?
“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.
