Whether you are moving to South Korea or planning a visit, knowing the social customs before you travel can be very beneficial. Here are seven social niceties that I believe anyone planning to go to Korea should keep in mind.
Take your shoes off. In all residences, temples, schools, guesthouses, or traditional Korean-style restaurants, it is socially expected that you leave your shoes at the door. I have noticed that Koreans also prefer that you wear socks, as that is seen as more professional than bare feet. The exceptions to this “shoes off” rule includes most large department stores, coffee shops, pharmacies, most small businesses, bars, and non-traditional restaurants.
Signaling “get over here”. This may be confusing and a difficult adjustment to anyone traveling from a western culture. To give the hand signal for someone to “get over here” you must place your hand out, palm down, and flutter your fingers at once. If you put your palm up this would be how you call your pet. I have had a few circumstances where I had placed my palm down to signal “sit down” or “quiet”, but the Korean children think they are trying to say “come over here”. This is an obstacle other ESL teachers have dealt with as well.
Do an artful bow. For many meetings and departures, a quick and short bow (or simply a nod of the head) is a very respectful act. For me, this is a bit of a natural occurrence since most all Koreans nod there head every time you leave some place.
Give gifts. When visiting someone at their home you should always remember to bring a small gift as a token of your appreciation. This could be flowers, chocolates, jewelry, cake from the local bakery, fruit, or a bottle of wine. It is also nice to wrap the gift. You may be confused at first because your host may initially decline your gift. However, this is simply a gesture of being humble that is also highly expected in Korean culture. Simply continue insisting and they will “reluctantly” accept your gift. Also, do not expect them to open your gift right away, as it is also socially considered very gracious to not immediately open the gift. I gave my director a necklace and, upon my arrival, she gave me a hair bow.
Smile when embarrassed. In moments when someone realizes that he or she is clearly wrong, you will often see Korean react in an unanticipated way: with a big smile. You should not take this in an offensive way, because you are not being mocked. In fact, you are simply indirectly being told “I’m sorry” and receiving an apology. I see this a lot while on the streets and during simply daily interactions.
Use both hands. You should always give and receive any objects using both hands. This is especially true with money and gifts.
Loss of face. An awkward moment should be easily smoothed over as soon as possible. Therefore, if you notice anyone attempting to change the subject, simply go with the flow. To Koreans, arguments or any situation that could lead to embarrassment should be avoided at all costs. This kind of goes back to how they also smile when embarrassed.
Source:
Lonely Planet: Korea
More by Jennifer:
Teaching in Korea: Entertainment
Korean Culture: Business Etiquette
Teaching in Korea: Managing Finances