- Never embarrass a South Korean. "Saving face" is paramount in their society. So much so that even with a question about directions, if they are not sure, they will give a wrong answer or any answer they think you want to hear, rather than answering "I don't know" or answering "no" to a request, as this would be classified as "losing face." Also, answering "yes" may not mean 'yes.' It may mean "I understand" or "I hear you." Again, "Saving face" is of the utmost most importance in South Korean society.
- Never confuse a South Korean with a Chinese or a Japanese person. Very insulting to South Koreans. Best to ask: "Where are you from?"
- South Korea is a Republic with a National Assembly and the President having a 5 year term.
- GDP is about $12,000 USD per capita.
- South Koreans are known for their very hard work ethic, respect for the elderly and family duty.
- Education is highly valued. The English language is taught in most High Schools.
- Do not use "slang" language, do not curse and do not joke. Jokes do not translate well into other languages.
- Natural Resources are coal, lead and hydro power.
- Known for textiles, clothing, shoes, accessories.
- Religion is about 30% Christian, 15% Buddhist. Confucianism is widely practiced regardless of religious affiliation.
- Hot, humid Summers, cold dry Winters. Pack clothes to layer.
- Dress is casual chic. Ladies wear skirts or dresses. DO NOT go sleeveless. Never go barefoot. DO NOT wear slacks. Gentlemen wear dark suits and white/light blue button down shirts.
- Bargaining in all stores is done, except when the sign says: "One Price."
- The sole of the shoe is considered an insult. When sitting, cross your legs at the ankles. Do not show the sole of your shoe & do not swing your leg or cross your legs at the knee. Simply try to keep your feet on the ground.
- Do NOT talk about politics.
- Do not criticize anyone, or your travel friends, even in jest, in public. This act is damaging to one's "Face." Instead, talk about Korean 5000 year old accomplishments.
- Keep your Hotel card with name and address with you at all times and your prescription drug information with you always.
- Laughter can mean embarrassment. Women cover their mouths when smiling.
- Do not stare at someone. Mother's use staring as punishment when their children are bad.
- Speak quietly always. Do not laugh loudly or yell. South Koreans are a very reserved society.
- Do not flail your arms around and do not use hand gestures. Some hand gestures, like pointing your finger, or raising a finger for a waiter, are considered to be obscene. Raise your entire hand to summon a waiter.
- Don't touch anyone. Sometimes you will see 2 friends who are girls holding hands. This is common and acceptable.
- Do not walk down the street while eating in public, and walk down the left side of the sidewalk or stairs.
- Do not chew gum in public. Do not blow your nose in public.
- South Koreans enjoy their meals. Be punctual for any meal. 12 courses meals are common and all served at the same time. If not a 12 course meal, soup is served first, then appetizers, rolled meat & vegetables in pancakes, then the main course, and dessert. Coffee is served with cream & sugar.
- The elderly and children are served first. The Host sets the pace. Do not touch anything until your Host begins. Pour liquids for others and they will do the same for you.
- It is common to fill another person's glass, then your glass.
- Never show distaste for any food. Don't place your spoon on the table (cleanliness issue).
- Leave some liquid in your glass, or food on your plate if you do not want a refill.
- You may be seated next to strangers in any restaurant. Don't worry, you are not expected to talk to them.
- To get the attention of a waiter, raise your entire hand, and say: "Yobo Seyo."
- Always allow your Host to seat you. The place of honor is a seat facing the entrance because the entrance, or door, is where all the power is located in any room.
- A traditional Toast is: "Gonbae." ('Gone-bay')
- After dinner, women and men socialize in separate rooms.
- You may be given a hot or cold towel to wash your hands before a meal.
- Never drink out of a bowl. Never pick up food with your hands.
- The Father is the most important person in the family and the most revered. Men go through doors first before women.
- Koreans do not talk much during meals. Pass dishes with the right hand, and you may support your arm with your left hand.
- Koreans do not form lines. They lightly push and shove in crowds. Be politely aggressive or you will never get anywhere.
- As reserved as the Korean society is, it is surprising, but Koreans do ask personal questions. This shows an honest interest in your life.
- Remove your sunglasses when speaking to or meeting someone.
- If you have blond or red hair, expect people to stare at you and touch your hair.
- Declining a compliment shows humility, so don't say "Thank You."
Magic Words:
- YES = Ye or Ne
- NO = Anio ('Ah-nee-yo')
- THANK YOU = Kamsa Hamnida
- PLEASE = Chebal
- HOW ARE YOU = Annoying Hasimnika
- GOODBYE = Annyonghi Kasipsiyo
Traveling is the best thing we can do for ourselves. It broadens our perspectives on life, human nature, and civilization. Relaxing resets the soul. Vacating one's life, if only just for a little while, does wonders for one's stress.
But traveling can be exhausting, frustrating, and potentially dangerous. Don't rush. Do not over schedule yourself. Take your time. Hard to do it all. Always take care to pay attention to where you are, your surroundings, people around you, and where you are going next.
But traveling can be exhausting, frustrating, and potentially dangerous. Don't rush. Do not over schedule yourself. Take your time. Hard to do it all. Always take care to pay attention to where you are, your surroundings, people around you, and where you are going next.
Enjoy your vacation. Enjoy local foods and culture. Remember to relax and enjoy.
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