Korean manners & culture
Small bows, both hands, a few basic words, and a habit that helps more than any rule: just observe what people do.
Nothing here is strict. But a few habits make daily life smoother in Korea.
Learn the Korean manners
Koreans bow to say hi, goodbye and thank you.
When they give you something, they usually use both hands. You can do the same. I personally forgot it many times, but I tried my best.
Something that is considered impolite is taking something with the left hand.
Learn a few basic Korean words
Even if you don't speak Korean, learning a few basic words makes the experience nicer. People also appreciate when you try.
For example:
- Annyeonghaseyo = Hello
- Kamsahamnida = Thank you
- Joesonghamnida = Sorry
- Ne = Yes
- Aniyo = No
You don't need to be perfect, but even knowing a few words helps.
Don't expect everyone to speak English
It was really hard to communicate sometimes. Even when you order on tablets, the English isn't always very clear.
That's why translation apps like Papago are so useful.
Be respectful and observe what people do
In Seoul, I felt like it was often better to observe what others were doing and follow.
How people queue, where they stand, how they order, how they behave in public transport.
You don't need to know everything in advance, but if you pay attention, it becomes easier.