Sunday, October 5, 2025 3:15 p.m.

As I prepare to leave South Korea in a few days I wanted to take the time to share some final observations and recommendations with you in the event that you ever plan a visit to this beautiful and unique country. I hope you find them useful.

Bowing Is Your New Handshake

Koreans bow for almost everything—greeting people, saying goodbye, thanking someone, or apologizing. The depth of your bow matters too, with deeper bows showing more respect to elders or people in authority positions.

Don’t worry about getting the angle perfect as a tourist, but a slight nod of the head goes a long way in showing respect.

Shoes Come Off at the Door

Whether you’re entering someone’s home, certain restaurants, or traditional accommodations, expect to remove your shoes frequently. Many places provide slippers, but some don’t, so wearing clean and presentable socks becomes surprisingly important.

Think of it like entering a clean zone where outdoor germs stay outside.

Age Determines Everything

Korean culture revolves around age hierarchy in ways that might feel intense if you’re from a more casual culture. People will often ask your age within minutes of meeting you because it determines how they should speak to you and behave around you.

This isn’t rudeness—it’s Koreans trying to show you the proper level of respect.

Chopsticks Have Rules

Using chopsticks to point at people or leaving them sticking straight up in your rice bowl is considered extremely rude. These actions are associated with death and funeral rituals.

When you’re not actively eating, lay your chopsticks beside your bowl or on the little rest provided.

Tipping Isn’t a Thing

Leaving money on the table after a meal will likely result in your server chasing you down the street to return your ‘forgotten’ money. Service charges are already included in prices, and excellent service is simply expected rather than rewarded with extra cash.

Spice Levels Are No Joke

Korean spicy food operates on a different scale than most other cuisines, and locals aren’t exaggerating when they warn you that something is hot. Even dishes that seem mild can pack serious heat.

Start with less spicy options and work your way up, because Korean spice tends to build rather than hit you immediately.

Internet Speed Will Spoil You

Korea has some of the fastest internet in the world, and free WiFi is available almost everywhere, including subways, buses, and most public spaces. Your hotel WiFi will probably be faster than your home internet.

This connectivity makes navigating with translation apps and maps incredibly easy.

Hiking Is a National Obsession

Koreans hike with the same enthusiasm that other cultures reserve for professional sports, often wearing full technical gear for  trails. Mountains surround most cities, and hiking trails are incredibly well-maintained with rest stops and exercise equipment.

Don’t be surprised to see people in their late 70s passing you on steep inclines.

Beauty Culture Is Intense

Skincare and appearance matter significantly in Korean culture, and you’ll notice the incredible variety of cosmetic products available everywhere. Many public restrooms have full skincare stations with lotions.

Don’t take it personally if strangers’ comment on your appearance, it’s often meant as helpful advice rather than criticism.

Subway Etiquette Matters

Priority seats are seriously reserved for elderly, pregnant, or disabled passengers, and non-disabled people will give up regular seats without being asked. Talking loudly on the phone or playing music is considered inconsiderate.

People form orderly lines and let passengers exit before boarding.

Gift-Giving Has a Protocol

Bringing small gifts from your home country is appreciated but avoid giving expensive items that create an obligation for reciprocal gifts. Present and receive gifts with both hands, and don’t open gifts immediately in front of the giver unless specifically asked to do so.

The gesture matters more than the monetary value.

And Finally…

From Hermit Kingdom to Global Powerhouse

Korea’s transformation from a war-torn nation to a technological and cultural superpower happened within living memory, creating a unique blend of traditional values and modern innovation. Understanding this rapid change helps explain why you’ll see older adults in traditional clothing using smartphones and why ancient temples sit next to futuristic skyscrapers.

If you visit South Korea your visit will connect you to a culture that honors its past while fearlessly embracing the future.

Chongae and I hope you will enjoy a future visit to South Korea.

And as always,

Thanks for travelling with us.