Korean Etiquette for Tourists: 15 Things to Know Before Visiting South Korea (2026)
You are standing outside a traditional Korean restaurant. The door opens, and you notice several pairs of shoes neatly arranged near the entrance. Should you take yours off? Later, on the subway, you find an empty seat that nobody seems interested in using. At dinner, your table fills with small dishes you did not order. And when the meal is over, you are unsure whether to leave a tip. These are the little moments that can make a first trip to South Korea feel unfamiliar. The good news is that Korean etiquette is not a complicated set of rules that tourists must memorize. Most everyday situations become easier once you understand a few cultural habits and learn to pay attention to your surroundings. This 2026 guide covers 15 practical Korean customs, from public transportation and restaurant manners to traditional homes, shopping, and photography. - Remove Your Shoes When the Space Requires It One of the most familiar Korean customs is removing shoes before entering certain indoor spac...