What Foreigners Always Ask Us About Living in Korea: Real Local Answer…

Understanding Everyday Korean Life: Local Insights for Travelers and Expats

Moving to or traveling in South Korea is an exciting experience, but first-time visitors often find themselves surprised by subtle social norms and daily systems. As Koreans living here, we frequently answer the same core questions from international visitors regarding public transport etiquette, dining habits, and local customs. Here is a practical guide to help you navigate Korea with confidence.

Essential Etiquette for Public Transportation

Korea's public transit system is efficient, clean, and safe, but it relies heavily on collective courtesy. When riding the subway or bus, keep your voice at a low volume and refrain from taking phone calls on speaker. Pay close attention to reserved seating: the pink seats are strictly set aside for pregnant women, and the end seats in each subway car are reserved for elderly, injured, or disabled passengers. Even when a train is completely full, locals generally leave these seats empty out of respect.

Dining Out: Tipping, Table Bells, and Extra Side Dishes

Restaurant culture in Korea has several unique features that distinguish it from Western dining customs:

• No Tipping Required: Taxes are included in menu prices, and tipping is not part of Korean culture. You do not need to leave extra cash for servers, taxi drivers, or hotel staff.
• Call Buttons: Many casual restaurants feature a small button on the side or top of the table. Press it when you are ready to order or need assistance—there is no need to wait or wave down a server.
• Complimentary Side Dishes: Side dishes (called banchan), including kimchi and pickled vegetables, come free with your meal. You can almost always ask for complimentary refills or grab more from a self-service bar.

Frequently Asked Questions About Korea

Q: Is tipping expected anywhere in South Korea?

A: No, tipping is not customary anywhere in Korea. In fact, leaving extra cash on a table or in a taxi can cause confusion, as staff may run after you thinking you accidentally left your change behind.

Q: Which navigation apps work best for getting around Korean cities?

A: Google Maps has limited functionality in Korea due to local spatial data security laws. For accurate transit schedules and walking routes, download Naver Map or KakaoMap, both of which offer English language support and real-time transit updates.

Q: How strict is the trash disposal system for visitors and expats?

A: Korea follows a strict waste management system called jongnyangje. General trash must be disposed of in official volume-rate bags purchased at local convenience stores, while plastic, paper, glass, and food waste are sorted into separate recycling bins.

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