South Korea is a developed and high-tech country. With the growing popularity of dramas and anime culture, many people want to visit here. But before you go here, you need to learn a few simple rules that are normal for Koreans and incomprehensible for Europeans. Plus, we will tell you about interesting places in the vicinity of Seoul that are worth visiting if you want to get to know the culture of this country better!
Communication with Koreans
During the greeting, Koreans are used to bowing: this is an optional action, but it will delight the locals. After that, you may be asked about your affairs and... how old you are. There is no need to flirt here: the fact is that different rules of decency and linguistic features apply depending on age. It is important for Koreans to talk to you politely.
How to behave in transport
There are two simple rules here – do not talk (loudly, at least) and do not sit in specially designated seats. Usually, at the end of the car, there are seats for pregnant women, the elderly and the disabled, and even during rush hour, those who do not fall into this category do not sit on them.
How to behave in a café, snack bar and restaurant
There are a lot of small coffee shops and eateries with street food here! Tables are occupied in a simple way - they put a backpack, hat, jacket on a table or chair. You can't just sit in the institution, you need to order at least a drink.
Koreans take food very seriously, so it is important to observe etiquette during meals.
- Everyone starts eating only after the oldest guest at the table has started the meal.
- Koreans are very fond of rice, and the plate with it is always on the table - remember that it should not be lifted and sticks or spoons inserted there.
- Rice itself is usually eaten with a spoon.
- It is considered rude if you refuse the food offered.
- Also, you can't talk with your mouth full, you can only smack your lips - this is how you show that you like the dish.
- Don't be surprised that you will have to sit on the floor at the table! In general, Koreans do everything on the floor, since they have them heated (in 95% of cases).
Religion and temples
It cannot be said that Koreans are religious, but in temples everyone must observe the rules of decency.
- Before entering the temple, take off your hat and shoes.
- It is forbidden to sit or lie on the floor in such a way that your feet point at the saint.
- A universal and convenient way to pray is to sit in the lotus position.
You will need these rules in all temples, but in Seoul we especially recommend visiting Waujeongsa: it is quiet, there are many Buddha statues, you can walk around and enjoy the tranquility for a whole day.
Where to walk in Seoul?
We talked about how to behave - now we will offer you places where you could apply your knowledge.
- We recommend that you go to Aiins World Park, which presents miniature copies of the main attractions of the world. There is even a small St. Basil's Cathedral and the Leaning Tower of Pisa! All details, including opening hours, ticket prices, and more, can be found on their official website.
- Continuing the topic of unusual parks, we advise you to go. to the poop park. Initially, it was built for children in order to tell them about the toilet and what is done there, about hygiene. But tourists really like to look at strange sculptures!
- After seeing the mini-sights and poop, you can ride bicycles and see the nature of Gangcheon. There is a continuation of the railway, where wagons with tourists run: you pedal and look at the surroundings.
- Did you plan to go to France, but managed to visit only Seoul? Don't be discouraged! On the territory of Paju Provance you will definitely feel like in Paris. Well, buy a couple of souvenirs.
It is definitely worth visiting Korea at least once: it is always interesting to get acquainted with a previously unknown culture, try the local cuisine and admire the main attractions. With our guide, you can impress Koreans with your good manners, and have fun in the places we recommend!
