Korean Etiquette
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SOCIAL NORMSDon't
Wearing shoes indoors
In Korean homes, floor-seating restaurants, and traditional guesthouses, shoes come off at the entrance — always. Slippers are usually provided inside.
More info
- Look for a shoe rack (신발장) near the entrance — that's your cue. If you're unsure, check what the host or other guests are doing.
- Wear clean socks when visiting — it's part of the same courtesy.
Don't
Drinking or smoking
facing elders
facing elders
In Korean culture, turning slightly away from elders when drinking is a mark of respect. Drinking or smoking directly facing an elder is considered disrespectful.
More info
- This applies at any shared meal — with hosts, volunteers, or older Koreans you meet during WYD. Watch what the people around you do and follow their lead.
- It's a small gesture, but it makes a genuine impression. Koreans notice — and appreciate — when visitors get this right.
Caution
Taking food from other
tables
tables
Don't take banchan (side dishes) from neighboring tables — even if they look untouched. Each table's food belongs to that table.
More info
- Banchan refills are almost always free — just flag down a staff member and say "이거 더 주세요 (igeo deo juseyo)" — "Could I have more of this?"
- Always ask the staff, not the people at the next table. That's the right move every time.
Don't
Missing your checkout time
During WYD week, accommodation schedules are tight. Overstaying your checkout — even by 30 minutes — creates real problems for the host and the next guests.
More info
- Standard checkout is 11:00 AM. If you need a late checkout, ask the night before — hosts appreciate the heads-up.
- If you need to store your bags after checkout, most guesthouses offer free luggage storage. Just ask.
Don't
Making noise after 10 PM
indoors
indoors
Noise between floors (층간소음) is a serious issue in Korean apartment culture. Running, loud talking, or music after 10 PM can — and does — result in formal complaints and police visits.
More info
- Inter-floor noise is one of the most common sources of neighbour disputes in Korea. Police can be called for repeat disturbances.
- After 10 PM, move any group energy to a common lounge, outdoor area, or simply call it a night.
- CEO Lee Boyoung
- E-mail : holyspots@gmail.com I address : 3F, Gunsan Building, 327-7 Majang-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul 04756, South Korea
- @2026 HolySpots. All rights reserved.
