Mastering Korean Travel Phrases and Cultural Etiquette for Safe and Respectful Journeys
When traveling to Korea or sending off friends and family on their journeys, knowing how to wish someone “safe travels” in Korean can add a warm, personalized touch to your farewell. Additionally, understanding cultural nuances can greatly enhance the experience. Here’s a listicle of 30 tips, including how to say “safe travels,” cultural etiquette, and useful expressions for anyone visiting or communicating with people in Korea.
1. Saying “Safe Travels” in Korean
- Standard Phrase: 안전한 여행 되세요 (Anjeonhan yeohaeng doeseyo)
- Informal Phrase: 잘 다녀와 (Jal danyeo wa) – Use this with friends or younger people.
2. Greeting and Farewell
- Hello: 안녕하세요 (Annyeonghaseyo)
- Goodbye (staying): 안녕히 계세요 (Annyeonghi gyeseyo)
- Goodbye (leaving): 안녕히 가세요 (Annyeonghi gaseyo)
3. Thank You and Please
- Thank You: 감사합니다 (Gamsahamnida)
- Please: 제발 (Jebal) – Note: Used sparingly in Korean, often implied by context.
4. Excuse Me and Sorry
- Excuse Me: 실례합니다 (Sillyehamnida)
- Sorry: 죄송합니다 (Joesonghamnida)
5. Yes and No
- Yes: 네 (Ne) or 예 (Ye)
- No: 아니요 (Aniyo)
6. How Much is This?
- Asking for Price: 이거 얼마예요? (Igeo eolmayeyo?)
7. Do You Speak English?
- Asking: 영어 할 수 있어요? (Yeongeo hal su isseoyo?)
8. Cultural Etiquette: Respect for Elders
- Use two hands when giving or receiving items from elders as a sign of respect.
9. Dining Etiquette
- Wait for the eldest to start eating before you do.
- Try not to stick chopsticks vertically into your rice bowl.
10. Shoes Off
- Remove your shoes when entering a Korean home and some traditional restaurants.
11. Addressing People
- Use titles or family roles instead of names unless you’re very close or given permission.
12. Pouring Drinks
- Use both hands to pour drinks for elders or superiors, and turn your head away to drink if you’re younger.
13. Tipping Culture
- Tipping is not customary in Korea; service charges are included in bills.
14. Personal Space
- Personal space may be smaller in Korea; be mindful in crowded places.
15. Public Transportation Etiquette
- Offer your seat to elders, pregnant women, and disabled individuals.
16. Silence is Golden
- Keep your voice down in public spaces, especially in transport.
17. Taking Photos
- Always ask for permission before taking photos of people.
18. Recycling and Trash
- Follow local recycling rules; they’re taken seriously in Korea.
19. Visiting Temples
- Dress modestly and follow posted guidelines when visiting temples.
20. Business Cards
- Offer and receive business cards with both hands as a sign of respect.
21. Drinking Etiquette
- It’s polite to accept when someone offers you a drink, but you’re not obligated to finish it.
22. Learn Hangul
- Knowing the Korean alphabet, Hangul, can be extremely helpful for reading signs and menus.
23. Internet Connectivity
- Korea has widespread Wi-Fi access; consider getting a local SIM card for convenience.
24. Emergency Numbers
- Remember 112 for police and 119 for fire and ambulance.
25. Convenience Stores
- They’re everywhere and offer a wide range of goods and services, including ATMs and shipping.
26. Street Food
- Don’t miss out on trying Korean street food; it’s part of the cultural experience.
27. Respect the Queue
- Whether it’s boarding a bus or waiting to order food, queuing is the norm.
28. Drinking Water
- Tap water is generally safe to drink, but bottled water is widely available.
29. Local Cuisine
- Embrace local dishes; Korean cuisine is diverse and flavorful.
30. Enjoy K-Culture
- Engage with Korea’s rich culture, from K-pop to traditional performances and historic sites.
By following these tips and phrases, your journey to or interaction with Korea can be enriched and respectful towards
For more info : https://travel.state.gov/content/travel.html