Embassy of the Republic of Korea to Norway

Korean etiquette and manners

By Sidrah Shaheen

Foreigners in Korea may not be expected to observe etiquette that is particular to Korean society. However, learning and making use of some etiquette and manners will show that you have taken the time to learn about and respect the culture.

Receive things with two hands
In Korea, it can be considered rude to use only one hand when receiving something. Therefore, when receiving something, make sure to take it with both hands. Alternately, you may use your right hand to receive while holding your right wrist with your left hand.

Show appreciation for your food and those who make or treat you to it
Before eating, Koreans say «Jal meokget sseum ni da» (잘 먹겠습니다). This literally translates into “I will eat well” and is a way of thanking someone for making or bringing you food, or for inviting you to a meal. Although not common at fast food chains or high-end restaurants, make sure to use this phrase when dining at local restaurant or at a Korean household. Upon finishing your meal, you may use the phrase “Jal meogeot sseum ni da” (잘 먹었습니다), which means “I ate well”.

Order of eating
If you ever find yourself dining with Koreans in a formal setting, do not just dig in when the food arrives! Make sure the oldest person in the group has his/her first bite before you start eating your food.

Do not let your chopsticks stand straight
During meals, never leave your chopsticks vertically standing in your food, as this is a symbol of death and bad luck. You can keep your chopsticks on top of your bowl or besides it.

Drinking etiquette
A special etiquette applies while consuming alcohol. Firstly, it is better to wait for someone to pour your drink than pour it yourself.  Someone will be pouring your drink and you will then return the favour. Secondly, if you are pouring a drink for someone older than you, make sure you use both hands. And thirdly, it is better not to drink openly in front of someone older than you. Rather, turn your head slightly away and cover your drink while drinking.

Handshakes
When shaking hands with someone older than you, it is better to use both hands. The right hand is used for the handshake itself while the left is used to hold your wrist. Also, make sure to bow slightly. When shaking hands with someone younger, it is sufficient to use just one hand. Another important thing to keep in mind is that usually an older person asks handshake first and a younger person doesn’t ask for the handshake with an older person.

Sources:
https://www.90daykorean.com/korean-etiquette/
https://noonasoverforks.com/2014/09/01/cramming-korean-please-take-care-of-me/
https://medium.com/story-of-eggbun-education/how-to-greet-people-in-korea-2-steps-with-pictures-3cc4bd6d25c3
https://www.90daykorean.com/korean-table-manners/