Things Not To Do in Countries

6 things not to do or avoid in South Korea 🇰🇷

Avoid receiving or giving somthing (business card, money...) with one hand

Why

Koreans find it very rude to receive something with one hand. Receiving with both hands at the same time or with one hand holding the other, is a great sign of respect.

Respect is deeply in their culture, so, avoid giving or receiving something with one hand to not offend anyone.

Alternative

If you give something with one hand, use your other hand to touch your elbow. Imagine the weight of what you are giving is so heavy that you need both hands.

Just do the same when you are receiving something, or accept it with two hands if you have a doubt.

Don't sit in elderly seats in subways

Why

Aged people are really respected or feared i'd say. Even if elderly seats are unoccupied leave them empty unless you want a big scolding from an elderly.

Alternative

Try to find another seat or seat down, but stand up as soon as you see and elderly coming.

Avoid sticking your chopsticks vertically in a bowl of rice

Why

Like in many asian cultures people do that for funerals and it's perceived as bad luck too.

Alternative

Just put it near your bowl. You can also follow this guide that explains the best ways to use chopsticks. https://justhungry.com/your-guide-better-chopstick-etiquette-mostly-japanese

Don't blow your nose at the dinner table

Why

No reason known for now.

Alternative

No alternative known for now.

If you are a girl do not expose shoulders or your back

Why

In Korea having a short skirt won't really be a problem but exposing your shoulders or your back is seen as sexual and indecent.

Alternative

Wear a nice thing that covers your shoulders

Don't start or finish your meal before an elder

Why

Even if you're extremely hungry, resist the urge to dig into your meal before the elders at the table do. The same goes for excusing yourself from table before your elders finish up their meals.

Alternative

Try saying you have a black hole in your stomack, it may work !