DO’S:

Do bow when greeting: Bowing is a common form of respect in Korean culture. A slight bow, especially to older people or in formal situations, is appreciated.
Do take off your shoes: When entering someone's home, traditional accommodation, or some temples, it’s customary to remove your shoes. Be sure to wear clean socks or have indoor slippers ready.
Do use both hands: When giving or receiving something, such as money, a business card, or a gift, use both hands to show respect.
Do respect personal space on public transport: Try to be mindful of others, keep noise levels down, and give priority seating to the elderly, pregnant women, and people with disabilities.
Do speak softly in public places: Koreans typically value quietness in public areas like buses and trains, so be mindful of your voice volume, especially when talking on the phone.
Do show respect in temples: When visiting religious sites like temples, dress modestly and act respectfully. Avoid taking photos where it’s prohibited, and remain silent in prayer areas.
Do bring your trash with you: Public trash bins are rare in Korea, so be prepared to carry your waste with you until you find a place to dispose of it properly.

DON’TS:

Don’t speak too loudly in public: Koreans tend to speak quietly in public places, and loud conversations can be considered rude, especially in confined spaces like buses, subways, or restaurants.
Don’t stick your chopsticks vertically in rice: Placing chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice resembles a ritual for the dead, so always lay them down across the bowl or on a chopstick rest.
Don’t blow your nose at the table: Blowing your nose at the dining table is considered impolite in Korea. Excuse yourself to a restroom if needed.
Don’t point with your finger: Instead of pointing with a finger, gesture with your hand, especially when addressing a person or indicating directions.
Don’t pour your own drink: In Korea, it’s customary for people to pour drinks for each other. If someone pours a drink for you, return the favor.
Don’t refuse drinks outright: If offered a drink (especially alcohol), it’s polite to accept it, even if just a small amount. If you don’t drink, kindly explain, but don’t refuse too abruptly as it can be seen as impolite.
Don’t leave food uneaten in traditional meals: When served a traditional meal, try to eat everything on your plate, especially in smaller family-run restaurants, as leaving food behind may be seen as wasteful.
Don’t touch or pat someone's head: In Korean culture, the head is considered sacred, so avoid touching someone’s head, especially children or adults.

South Korea