When visiting Korea, some foreigners walk away with the impression that locals are being cold or even discriminatory. But often, these situations stem from simple cultural misunderstandings. Korea has its own unique ways of showing respect, navigating space, and communicating. Let’s take a look at 8 habits that may seem odd (or even rude) at first glance — but are just part of everyday life in Korea.
You’re sitting on the subway when someone next to you suddenly stands up and moves to an empty seat at the end. Was it something you said? Did they not want to sit next to a foreigner?
Actually, many Koreans prefer end seats — they feel less crowded, offer more personal space, and are closer to exits. It’s not about you; it’s about comfort and convenience. Don’t take it personally!
You smile at a stranger or try to make friendly eye contact… but they quickly look away. Awkward?
In Korea, avoiding eye contact with strangers is often a sign of respect or modesty, not disinterest. Especially in formal or public settings, maintaining too much eye contact can feel aggressive or overly personal. It’s not that they’re ignoring you — they’re just keeping their distance politely.
“Your head is so small!” “You look much younger than your age!” — These might sound confusing, or even borderline insulting, to someone unfamiliar with Korean culture.
But in Korea, having a small head is considered attractive because it symbolizes a youthful, balanced look — especially on camera. Similarly, being told you look young is meant as a high compliment. These phrases aren’t insults; they’re actually meant to flatter you. It just might take a moment to adjust your cultural radar!
You get on a subway or step into an elevator — and it’s dead silent. No music, no small talk, no chatter. You start to wonder if everyone is okay.
Totally normal. In Korea, silence in public spaces is a form of social courtesy. Loud conversations on public transport or elevators are seen as disruptive. It might feel eerie to some visitors, but it’s actually considered polite. That said, visit a restaurant or café on a weekend evening, and you’ll hear plenty of lively conversation!
If you’re in a packed subway or a busy market, someone might brush past you without saying a word. You might expect an “excuse me,” but none comes.
This isn’t rudeness — it’s just efficiency. In crowded places, a gentle nudge is often faster and more practical than speaking. It’s not meant to offend. It’s the Korean version of “pardon me, but we’re all trying to get somewhere!”
In many Western countries, holding the door for someone behind you is an automatic gesture. In Korea, however, people often let the door close behind them, even if you’re right there. Rude?
Not quite. Korean social norms place less emphasis on interacting with strangers. It’s not about ignoring you — it’s just that holding the door isn’t a culturally expected behavior. Plus, automatic doors are everywhere!
You finish your purchase and the cashier says… nothing? No “thank you,” no smile? Cold service?
Don’t worry. In Korea, especially at convenience stores or busy retail counters, the priority is speed and accuracy. Service workers often skip small talk and gestures to keep the line moving. It’s not personal — just practical. If you say “thank you” first, they’ll often return the gesture with a smile.
📌 Final Thoughts
Traveling means encountering new customs, and sometimes those customs can feel confusing or even unfriendly. But in many cases, what seems like rudeness in Korea is actually thoughtful behavior — just expressed differently. The more you understand these cultural nuances, the more deeply you’ll appreciate Korea’s unique social rhythms. And who knows? You might even find yourself enjoying the quiet subway rides and end seats.
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