Busan Korea Travel Tips

Key Travel & Cultural Etiquette Tips for Tourists in Busan:

Respectful Greetings:

  • Bowing: A slight bow is the standard greeting in Korea. The depth of the bow reflects the level of respect shown.
  • Formal Titles: Address people with their proper titles (Mr., Ms., etc.) followed by their last name, unless they invite you to use their first name.

Dining Etiquette:

  • Shoes Off: Remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or a traditional restaurant. Slippers are usually provided.
  • Elders First: Allow elders to start eating before you begin. It’s considered rude to eat before them.
  • Sharing Dishes: Korean meals often involve sharing dishes in the center of the table. Use chopsticks or spoons to serve yourself from the communal plates.
  • Don’t Stick Chopsticks Upright in Rice: This resembles incense sticks used at funerals and is seen as bad luck. Rest your chopsticks on the chopstick rest provided.

Public Behavior:

  • Quietness: Be mindful of noise levels in public spaces like buses, subways, and parks. Loud talking or music can be disruptive.
  • Litter: Keep Busan clean by disposing of trash properly. Trash cans are readily available throughout the city.
  • Tipping: Tipping is not customary in Korea.

Shopping & Bargaining:

  • Fixed Prices: Most stores have fixed prices, so haggling is generally not expected.

Transportation:

  • T-Money Card: Purchase a T-Money card for easy and affordable travel on buses and subways.
  • Respectful Behavior: Stand up and offer your seat to elderly people, pregnant women, or those with disabilities on public transportation.

Communication:

  • Learn Basic Phrases: Knowing a few basic Korean phrases like “hello” (annyeonghaseyo), “thank you” (kamsahamnida), and “excuse me” (sillyehamnida) will be greatly appreciated by locals.
  • Download Translation Apps: Utilize translation apps to help bridge the language barrier.

Cultural Sensitivity:

  • Dress Modestly: While Busan is generally a modern city, it’s respectful to dress modestly when visiting temples or traditional areas. Avoid revealing clothing.
  • Avoid Public Displays of Affection: Excessive PDA is not socially acceptable in Korea.

Enjoy Your Time:

Busan is a vibrant and welcoming city with a lot to offer visitors. Be open-minded, embrace the local culture, and enjoy your experience!