How to Avoid Common Mistakes Made by Tourists in Seoul

The capital of South Korea, Seoul is a captivating city to visit, presenting a myriad of engrossing experiences for the traveller. Here, you would encounter impressive skyscrapers, sophisticated subways and absorbing pop culture as well as palaces, Buddhist temples, vibrant street markets and more. However, there are some 'mistakes' foreign visitors may make whilst in the city that you must avoid; some of these etiquette errors are described below and are worth keeping in mind. 

Avoid talking in a very loud voice on public transport 

You should take care not to speak in a loud tone whilst travelling on public transportation in this city. Naturally, this is common courtesy when travelling in any country and locals who are sitting or standing near you may even request you not to do so if you engage in such inconsiderate behaviour. This is understandable as many Koreans use the time spent travelling on the bus or subway to rest following a tiring workday. 

Remove your shoes when it is expected 

When entering anyone’s home, it is considered polite and proper to remove your shoes. In fact, this may be regarded as an important demonstration of respect. This is partly because in local households, people traditionally dine, sleep and sit on the floor itself and therefore, it is naturally important to keep this surface clean. Additionally, certain teahouses and restaurants in the city also require patrons to remove footwear. 

Experience the outdoor wonders 

Whilst the South Korean capital is particularly renowned for its outstanding dining and shopping opportunities, it would be a huge mistake not to experience its outdoor and natural marvels such as engrossing temples, palaces and villages. You may take the chance to visit the well-known Bugaksan Mountain where you could follow the trails extending through the striking gates and by the fortress walls. Also of note is the Namsangol Hanok Village, a recreation of a traditional and historical village set outdoors which is a great place to explore. One of the hotels near Namsan Tower to consider from which you could easily plan visits to these attractions is Travelodge Myeongdong Namsan. 

Use both hands when giving and receiving 

A noteworthy cultural practice in South Korea is to always use both hands when receiving an item, particularly from someone elder or senior. This is also the case when giving an item to another person. Meanwhile, using just one hand for these practices is regarded as being disrespectful and rude. Although these ideas may seem unfamiliar to people from other parts of the world, they demonstrate respect and honour. 

Do not pour your own drink 

Seoul boasts a significant drinking culture, however, it has more to do with socializing. Keep in mind that when drinking with Koreans, it is considered proper to avoid pouring your drink yourself. Instead, you should wait for someone to pour the drink for you. Similarly, you should take the opportunity to also pour drinks for others at the table, particularly elders. 

Consider the etiquette of eye contact 

Whilst in Western countries it is considered respectful and polite to make eye contact with people you are speaking to, this isn’t necessarily the case in South Korea. Rather than showing confidence and attentiveness, in this country, making firm eye contact could sometimes come across as being disrespectful. It is believed that if you look someone higher than you in age or seniority in the eye, it suggests that you consider them to be your equal. Of course, this is just something for tourists to keep in mind rather than being a set rule.

Wait for the eldest to start dining 

Should you happen to be dining in the company of a group of Koreans, you should take care to wait until the oldest person present has commenced eating. Additionally, locals will not leave their place at the table immediately after completing their meal; instead, they wait till the oldest person leaves or says it is ok to leave. Accordingly, it is advisable to pace oneself when dining here so that you would finish at roughly the same time as the others.