Observance of social convention is important if you wish to show respect or make an impression. Despite their ultra-modern city, the people of Seoul remain part of a strongly neo-Confucian social tradition where the concept of ‘face’ is important. Always act respectfully and avoid any words or actions that could make any party appear in a negative light. Koreans have intensely sensitive antennae. This also applies to the country as a whole. Despite their youth, they are a conservative bunch. Odd or unusual dress will probably be frowned upon, as are open signs of affection in public. Despite on going improvements, Korea remains very much a male-dominated society. One of the most important things to remember is : Don’t compare Korea with Japan.
1. Never enter a Korean home, temple, Korean style restaurants, with your shoes on. Bare feet are not appreciated either.
2. Never refuse hospitality from a Korean.
3. Don’t use your left hand to accept or give gifts.
4. Don’t sit until told where to sit. And never sit till the most senior person has been seated. Koreans greatly respect their elders.
5. Don't eat before the oldest person at the table has started eating.
6. Never leave your chopsticks in your rice. Not even parallel on the bowl. When you are done, leave them on the side or on the chopstick stand.
7. Never point at anyone or poke your food around with your chopsticks.
8. Don’t eat with your hands. It is considered impolite to use your hands to pick up the foods and put into your mouth. Always use the chopsticks and spoon.
9. Do not reach across the table for distant food. Please ask a nearby person to pass it to you.
10. Do not pour your own drink, but offer to pour others' drinks. If you deny to pour for someone, it will be offensive.
11. Don't drink all of your drink if you do not want a refill. If you finish all in your glass, it indicates you want more.
12. Don’t criticize Korean cuisine. Do not pick out what you don't like or remove the seasonings. South Koreans are very proud of their food and will be insulted if it's criticized.
13. Do not tip at a place that has a “No Tipping” sign.
14. Writing someone's name in red is bad as this symbolises death.
15. The number four is considered unlucky so don't give gifts in multiples of four.
16. The concept of face or Kibun is very important to Koreans. Never argue or cause anyone to back down, thereby having to lose face. Public criticism is a no no.
17. Don’t dress like a slob. In Korea, you will be judged by your appearance.
18. Don’t give someone an expensive gift if you know that they can't reciprocate. Gifts are always reciprocated in South Korean culture.
19. Don’t wrap gifts in green, black or white.
20. Never open gifts when you receive them.
21. Don’t address a Korea by his or her given name as it is considered extremely impolite. Address a Korean is with Mr, Mrs, or Miss together with their family name.
22. Don’t force eye contact with a Korean. It makes them extremely uncomfortable.
23. Don’t use large hand gestures or facial expressions. Talking or laughing loudly is also considered impolite in Korean culture.
24. Never beckon anyone with palm up using one finger, as this is the way Koreans call their dogs.
25. Don’t cross your legs.
26. Do not touch, pat, or backslap a Korean that is not your relative or close friend.
27. Don't blow your nose in public. It is considered very rude.
28. Don’t wear jewellery if you're a man, aside from a wedding ring or watch.
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