Korean Social Etiquette


The things you should know about korean social etiquette. 
Planning your very first trip to the land of kimchi and K-Pop? Here, a crash
course on social etiquette to avoid potentially embarrassing situations. :)

  photo tumblr_m89sv7iFlJ1qdlkyg_zpse539c221.gifAnnyeonghaseyo

   On greeting people: If you are the type that kisses every tita you are introduced to, leave that habit at home-- Instead of beso, bow slightly to a person when introduced instead. When greeting a group, greet seniors/elders first.


 photo tumblr_m89sv7iFlJ1qdlkyg_zpse539c221.gifTerms of Endearment

   Take care not to sound overly familiar by immidiately calling guys oppa (or worse-- ahjussi), or offending someone younger by calling her unni or ahjumma, implying she looks old! It's best to ask how to address them (first name or last? Common or honorific language?). When in doubt, stick to Mr./Ms. (last name). Koreans usually ask for a person's age or year of birth during your meeting so they know how to respectfully address you; do the same.


 photo tumblr_m89sv7iFlJ1qdlkyg_zpse539c221.gifThankyou

   Show your appreciation by saying kamsahamnida with a little respectful bow (a 15-degreeangled bow is safe).


  photo tumblr_m89sv7iFlJ1qdlkyg_zpse539c221.gifVisiting a Home

   In a most Korean homes (and some resto), you must leave your shoes at the entrance--so make sure you always wear cute non-holey socks! If they offer guest slippers don't refuse, no matter how particular you are about footwear. And don't forget to bring a gift of fruits,flowers, or fine sweets for your host.


  photo tumblr_m89sv7iFlJ1qdlkyg_zpse539c221.gifChowing Down

   At mealtimes, wait to be told where to sit; elders are usually seated first. When eating with a group, wait for the host to serve you, or wait til' the most senior person at the table starts eating before you dig in. And chomp away-- It shows appreciation!


  photo tumblr_m89sv7iFlJ1qdlkyg_zpse539c221.gifWielding Chopsticks

   Don't pick up food with fingers; use chopsticks or even toothpicks for small piece of fruits (exception: lettuce wraps). When you pause, set your chopsticks down on the plate-- never leave them sticking out of the rice bowl, and don't use them to gesture! If using metal chopsticks is awkward, it's okay to ask for a spoon and fork.


  photo tumblr_m89sv7iFlJ1qdlkyg_zpse539c221.gifDrinking

   When drinking, pour for others, wait for someone to pour for you, and keep refilling your companion's glass when it is empty. Careful: in real life puking isn't cute, and you are more likely to lose your pride than get s piggyback ride!



Note: I know more more than that! :D Thanks for reading.
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