A few customs go a long way in Korea, where age and seniority shape everyday manners. Use two hands, take your shoes off indoors, and keep things quiet and tidy in public.
Use two hands
Give and receive things โ money, cards, gifts โ with two hands, especially with elders. When drinking with someone older, pour and receive their drink with both hands too.
Shoes off indoors
Remove your shoes before stepping into homes, hanok stays, temples and floor-seating restaurants. Look for a raised threshold or a shelf of shoes at the entrance.
Age & seniority
Seniority shapes manners: let elders sit and start eating first, and greet with a slight bow. A little deference is always appreciated.
Quiet on the subway
Keep your voice down and phone calls brief on the subway. Leave the priority and pink pregnant-passenger seats free for those who need them.
Trash & recycling
Korea takes waste separation seriously โ sort into general, recyclables and food waste. Street bins are scarce, so you may carry rubbish until you find one.
Queue & escalators
Queue politely and don't push. On escalators, stand on the right and leave the left side clear for people walking up.
Fares, prices and rules can change over time โ please check official sources before you travel.
