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Things to Note When You Come to Korea

Korea, a vibrant and charming country, attracts tourists from all over the world with its delicious cuisine and popular culture. However, there are some unique public etiquette and habits you need to be aware of. If you plan to travel or live in Korea, paying attention to these small details will not only make your trip smoother but also help you integrate better into local life. Let's take a look at these interesting and practical tips!


Public Transportation Tips

1. Special Seats: Caring for the Elderly and Pregnant

When you take the subway or bus, you'll notice some seats in different colors. These seats are reserved for the elderly, pregnant women, and people with disabilities. Even if the car is crowded, these seats should be left for those in need. Taking these seats might attract unwanted stares!


bus
bus


2. Bus Boarding and Alighting Etiquette

In Korea, there is an interesting rule when taking the bus: you need to swipe your card both when you get on and off the bus. You should board from the front door and alight from the rear door. This arrangement greatly improves the efficiency of boarding and alighting. Make sure to have your transit card ready to avoid any confusion.

bus
bus

3. Escalator Etiquette: Stand Right, Walk Left

There's an unspoken rule for escalators in Korea: stand on the right side, leaving the left side for people in a hurry. This arrangement allows everyone to move quickly and conveniently. Remember this small detail to not only make things easier for yourself but also avoid blocking others.


escalator
escalator

4. No Eating or Drinking on Buses

Eating and drinking are strictly prohibited on buses in Korea. Even drinks like bubble tea are not allowed, preventing odors and cleanliness issues in the bus. Respecting this rule is not only polite to other passengers but also helps maintain a clean public environment.


take out food
take out food

Self-Service at Restaurants

Many restaurants in Korea have a unique feature where you need to clean up your table after dining. You'll find designated areas in the restaurant to place your trays and dishes. This not only saves manpower but also shows a conscious effort to maintain the environment. So, don't forget to clean up after yourself—it’s an important part of dining etiquette!


restaurant
restaurant

Respecting Privacy: Handling Photos and Videos

Privacy is highly valued in Korea. If you accidentally photograph someone and wish to upload the picture or video online, make sure to blur their faces. This shows respect for others' privacy and avoids potential legal issues.

groups of people
groups of people


If you find these rules a bit much or complicated, don't worry! Bucket, a travel platform, can help you better understand and adapt to life in Korea. Whether it's public transportation, restaurant etiquette, or other daily habits, Bucket provides detailed guides and convenient services to make your trip to Korea more enjoyable and stress-free.

Korea is a beautiful and charming country. By understanding and respecting these small details, you can have a more wonderful journey. Remember these tips and come to Korea to experience a different culture and lifestyle!

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