Jeju Island South Korea Travel Tips

✈️ Key Travel & Cultural Etiquette Tips for Tourists in Jeju Island, South Korea:

General Etiquette:

  • Respect Hierarchy: Korean society places importance on age and seniority. Address elders respectfully using honorifics (e.g., “ssi” after their name) and avoid interrupting them.
  • Bowing: A slight bow is a common greeting in Korea. Bowing depth varies depending on the situation, with deeper bows showing more respect.
  • Shoes Off: Remove your shoes before entering homes, temples, and some restaurants. Look for a shoe rack or designated area.

Dining Etiquette:

  • Sharing is Caring: Korean meals are typically shared family-style. Don’t take too much food from communal dishes at once.

  • Chopstick Manners:

    • Don’t stick chopsticks upright in rice as it resembles funeral incense.
    • Avoid passing food directly from chopsticks to chopsticks, as this is associated with death rituals.
    • Use the back of your chopsticks to take food from shared dishes.

  • Drinking Etiquette:

    • Wait for the eldest person at the table to start drinking before you do.
    • Turn your head slightly away when accepting a drink from someone older than you as a sign of respect.
    • Offer to refill others’ drinks before filling your own.
    • Don’t pour your own drink.

Temple Etiquette:

  • Dress Modestly: Shoulders and knees should be covered.

  • Silence: Keep noise levels down while on temple grounds.

  • Shoes Off: Remove shoes before entering temples.

  • Photography: Ask permission before taking photos of monks or inside sacred areas.

Other Tips:

  • Learn Basic Korean Phrases: Saying “hello” (annyeonghaseyo), “thank you” (kamsahamnida), and “excuse me” (sillyehamnida) goes a long way.

  • Cash is King: While credit cards are accepted in major establishments, many smaller shops and restaurants prefer cash.

  • Tipping: Tipping is not customary in Korea.

  • Public Transportation: Jeju’s public transportation system is efficient and affordable. Consider using buses or taxis.

Enjoy Your Trip!

Jeju Island offers stunning natural beauty, delicious food, and friendly locals. By following these etiquette tips, you can ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience for both yourself and the people you encounter.