[Korean Wave] 10 Things To Avoid When In Korea

Been planning to visit the 'The Land of the Morning Calm'? Hep hep! Korea will definitely welcome you with arms wide open. But first, here are some much-needed tips made for you. Here are, the 10 things you have to avoid when in Korea.

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1. Never occupy reserved places in subways. Some seats are especially allotted for the elderly and pregnant women. Don't even think of doing so because that would definitely raise a lot of eyebrows.

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2. Never eat first. It is a common tradition to wait for the oldest person at the table to start eating before the others can begin. This denotes consideration and politeness.

3. Never dig your chopsticks in your rice. There's an Asian tradition wherein people usually stick incense upright in a bowl at funerals. So basically doing something like that with your chopsticks reminds them of it.

4. Never wear your shoes inside someone's home. Korean lifestyle usually involves the floor. They eat with a table low on the ground, sit on the floor, and even sleep on it. That's why it is deemed unhygienic to wear your footwear inside the house.

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5. Never receive things with one hand. Always use two hands when getting or giving gifts to someone. It is considered rude to do otherwise.

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6. Never refuse a shot of Soju with an elder. When an older person offers you a drink, never decline. That would totally be perceived as disrespect.

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7. Never face an elder while drinking. You should always turn your head away from anyone older or of higher rank as a sign of courtesy.

8. Never wear revealing clothes. Women must avoid donning sleeveless clothes. Showing off too much shoulders is still frowned upon in Korea.

9. Never say bad things about their culture. Koreans  are extremely proud of their heritage and traditions. Nobody will appreciate anybody who will mock them.

10. Never argue about the disputed Dokdo islets. Dokdo belongs to Korea alone and this isn't up for a debate.

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Each nation has their own set of rules and list of standards. Some may be easy and some may be difficult. But, as an outsider wanting to explore a foreign land you must learn how to adapt. Remember to learn to love the country and its people, so that the country and its people would love you back. Have a safe and joyful trip to Korea! Enjoy!

Toodles,

Jean