Ready with your passport and want to visit South Korea? Then you should know the rules for foreigners in South Korea. Every country has its dos and don’ts, and it’s important to understand the local laws, regulations, and entry requirements before packing your bags.
I can feel your excitement as you plan your trip to the Republic of Korea! I felt the rush many times, like when some of us toured the best cities in Asia, and stayed at Addis Ababa’s Airport Hotel – all wonderful experiences!
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That’s why we’ve put together this guide covering essential cultural norms, travel tips, safety precautions, visa policies, K-ETA applications, and advisories. This guide will help you navigate everything from proper etiquette to practical travel advice.
Ok! The Do’s When Visiting South Korea
1. Learn Korean Basic Phrases
Knowing a few essential Korean words can go a long way. While many Koreans understand English, using local phrases can enhance your experience. Here are some useful ones:
- Where? – 어디? (Eodie?)
- How much? – 얼마예요? (Eolmayeyo?)
- Thank you – 감사합니다 (Kamsahamnida)
- I’m sorry – 죄송합니다 (Jwesonghamnida)
- Hello – 안녕하세요 (Annyeonghaseyo)
2. Bow When Greeting Someone
Many Koreans prefer a slight bow when greeting someone. A deeper bow is used for formal occasions or showing great respect.
Handshakes are common in business settings, but always wait for the other person to offer their hand first.
3. Accept Things with Both Hands
Politeness is highly valued in South Korea. Always use both hands as a sign of respect. Do it even when receiving change at a store or accepting a business card.
Koreans also appreciate it being done after receiving a gift. This is a small but meaningful gesture that will be appreciated by locals.
4. Respect Elders in Every Situation
Respect for elders is deeply ingrained in Korean society. You should always let older people enter a room first. Allow them to eat first.
Also, slightly bow your head when passing by an elder in a narrow space. On public transport, seats for the elderly are strictly off-limits – even if they’re empty.
5. Be Cautious When Using Chopsticks
Never stick chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice, as this resembles incense sticks at funerals.
Also, avoid passing food from one pair of chopsticks to another, as this mimics a ritual performed at cremations.
6. Take Off Your Shoes Before Entering Someone’s House
In South Korea, it’s customary to remove your shoes before stepping into a home or certain restaurants.
Ignoring this tradition may offend your host, and you may even get a few disapproving stares from locals.
7. Follow Trash Segregation Rules
South Korea has strict waste disposal laws. If you’re staying for an extended period, be sure to follow proper recycling guidelines. Improper disposal can lead to fines.
The South Korean government enforces waste management regulations. It makes the country one of the global leaders in recycling!
8. Use Your Palm When Calling a Taxi
It might be surprising, but Koreans don’t call taxis using one finger only. It is considered rude to them. Although it’s just a small gesture, Korean people will appreciate it.
9. Press the ‘Close Door’ Button in Elevators
In Korea, it’s normal for people to press the “close door” button in an elevator to speed things up. If you don’t, you may be seen as inconsiderate.
10. Hold Your Cup When Drinking with Elders
When drinking alcohol in a group setting, turn your head slightly away from elders and hold your cup with both hands when they pour your drink. This is a small but important gesture of respect.
Caution! The Don’ts When Visiting South Korea
1. Don’t Blow Your Nose in Public
Blowing your nose in public, especially at restaurants or on public transportation, is considered rude and unhygienic. Step into a restroom or private space instead.
2. Don’t Write Names in Red Ink
This is seen as a bad omen in Korean culture. Traditionally, writing someone’s name in red ink is seen as unlucky. This is because it’s associated with death. Stick to black or blue ink for writing names.
3. Don’t Tip at Restaurants or Bars
Unlike in Western culture, tipping is not a common practice in South Korea. In some cases, it might even be considered offensive.
High-end restaurants may include a service charge, but generally, there’s no expectation to leave extra money.
4. Don’t Take Photos of People Without Permission
This is illegal. Yes, REALLY illegal. Not only in Korea’s culture, but it is also under South Korean law. Especially if you take a picture of a woman without her consent.
Taking general photos and a selfie is fine, but beyond that, it’s rude. You might face the consequences of being questioned by police and local authorities.
5. Don’t Be Loud on Public Transport
I think that being noisy in public transport is rude. Some countries don’t totally practice this. But in Korea, they value personal space.
So if you’re too noisy and that you disturb other people, you’ll be considered rude. In public transport, be considerate and always be mindful of other people.
6. Don’t Point Directly at People
Pointing at someone with your index finger is considered rude and confrontational. Instead, use your entire hand or a slight gesture.
7. Don’t Speak Casually to Strangers
In Korean culture, there are formal and informal speech levels. Avoid speaking casually to strangers. Pedestrians around you or people who are older than you will think it disrespectful.
8. Don’t Walk and Eat at the Same Time
Unlike in many countries, eating while walking is not a common practice in South Korea. Locals usually finish their food at the place where they bought it.
9. Don’t Assume Everyone Drinks Alcohol
Korea has a strong drinking culture, but not everyone drinks. If someone declines a drink, don’t pressure them.
10. Don’t Ignore Advisories About North Korea Tensions
There are still tensions on the Korean Peninsula. Occasional missile tests or demonstrations can impact travel. Check travel advisories before your trip.
Important South Korean Travel Considerations (2025 Update)
Before you embark on your journey, gather further information on travel regulations and safety advisories. Also, check out seasonal risks that could impact your trip.
Visa & Entry Requirements
- See if you qualify for a visa waiver or need to apply for a K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) via the official K-ETA website before departure.
- US, UK, Canadian, and Australian citizens are exempt from the K-ETA requirement until December 31, 2025.
- Check the official K-ETA website for details.
Weather & Natural Disasters
- Typhoons, flooding, and landslides are common between June and August.
- South Korea occasionally experiences earthquakes.
- Familiarize yourself with all emergency procedures.
Safety & Advisories
- Always carry travel insurance that covers unexpected situations, including medical emergencies.
Packing Essentials
- If visiting between December and April, pack winter jackets and thermal layers to stay warm.
- During the rainy season (June–August), bring a waterproof phone bag and umbrella.
Finally…
Now, for a final advice, here’s something you must know: foreigners are required by law to carry their passport or Alien Registration Card (ARC) at all times.
Picture this: You’re casually strolling through Myeongdong when a police officer asks for your ID. If you don’t have it, you could face fines or legal trouble. So, before heading out, do a quick pocket check – it’s better to be safe than sorry!
That’s it! Now, you’re all set! This might be new to you or surprising, but it is their culture, and you’re in their country.
As a tourist, you must know the general rule before traveling to a certain place: Respect their culture, follow their rules, you’re the visitor, you should adjust to their way of living and not the other way around.
Hope this article helps you, so go on and head your way to the beautiful country of South Korea!
FAQ
South Koreans consider it a personal violation to be touched by someone who is not a relative or close friend. Touching, patting, or back slapping is to be avoided during interactions. In addition, direct eye contact between juniors and seniors should be avoided because it is seen as impolite or even a challenge.
Guns, narcotics, pornography, subversive material, treasonous material, and counterfeit goods are prohibited from entering Korea.
Immigration violations can lead to arrest, fines, and deportation. There is little tolerance for illegal drugs. If you mail illegal drugs to/ from Korea, you will be prosecuted. Commercial disputes may lead to criminal charges being filed under local laws.
About the Writer
Hi there! I’m Fatima. My first major travel was in 2016 in the beautiful city of Cebu. After that, I got interested in traveling. Now I enjoy learning languages and other country’s cultures. My goal is to visit at least one country each year and to share my experiences with other people through writing or blogging. Witness my journey by following me on Instagram.