Seoul

1. Communication Styles

• Politeness and Formality: Koreans value politeness and hierarchy in communication. Use formal language, especially when speaking to elders or people in positions of authority. The Korean language has different levels of formality, so err on the side of caution and use formal speech (e.g., ending sentences with "-yo" or "-mnida").
• Non-Verbal Communication: Body language is important. Avoid excessive hand gestures or touching during conversations. Maintain a calm and respectful demeanor.
• Indirect Communication: Koreans often communicate indirectly to avoid confrontation. Be mindful of subtle hints or non-verbal cues, as they may indicate disagreement or discomfort.
• Titles and Honorifics: Address people by their titles (e.g., "Manager Kim" or "Teacher Lee") rather than their first names unless invited to do so. Using the suffix "-ssi" (e.g., "Kim-ssi") is a polite way to address someone.

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2. Greeting Customs

• Bowing: Bowing is the traditional way to greet someone. A slight bow is sufficient for casual interactions, while a deeper bow shows respect, especially to elders or superiors.
• Handshakes: Handshakes are common in business or formal settings, but they are often accompanied by a slight bow. Use your right hand for the handshake and support your right forearm with your left hand for added politeness.
• Two-Handed Gesture: When giving or receiving something (e.g., a business card, gift, or drink), use both hands as a sign of respect.

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3. Dining Etiquette

• Seating Arrangements: In traditional settings, the most senior person sits at the head of the table. Wait to be seated if you are unsure of the seating order.
• Starting the Meal: Do not start eating until the eldest person at the table begins. It is customary to say "잘 먹겠습니다" (jal meok-get-seum-ni-da), meaning "I will eat well," before starting the meal.
• Sharing Food: Korean meals are often served family-style, with shared dishes in the center of the table. Use the serving utensils provided, not your personal chopsticks, to take food from shared dishes.
• Chopstick Etiquette: Do not stick your chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice, as this resembles a ritual for the deceased. Place them neatly on the chopstick rest or across your plate when not in use.
• Drinking Etiquette: When drinking alcohol, pour drinks for others rather than yourself. Hold the bottle with both hands when pouring, and receive drinks with both hands. Turn your head away from elders when taking a sip as a sign of respect.
• Paying the Bill: In casual settings, the eldest or most senior person often pays the bill. If you are invited out, it is polite to offer to pay or at least contribute, though your offer may be declined.

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4. Gift-Giving Practices

• Occasions for Gifts: Gifts are commonly given during holidays (e.g., Chuseok, Lunar New Year), when visiting someone's home, or as a gesture of gratitude.
• Presentation: Wrap gifts neatly, as presentation is important. Avoid using red ink or wrapping paper, as it is associated with bad luck.
• What to Give: Practical gifts like high-quality food items (e.g., fruit, tea, or health supplements) are appreciated. Avoid overly expensive gifts, as they may make the recipient uncomfortable.
• Receiving Gifts: Accept gifts with both hands and express gratitude. Do not open the gift in front of the giver unless invited to do so.

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5. Behavior in Public Spaces

• Quietness: Koreans value quietness in public spaces. Avoid speaking loudly on public transportation or in crowded areas.
• Queueing: Always stand in line when waiting for public transportation, elevators, or services. Pushing or cutting in line is considered rude.
• Respect for Elders: Offer your seat to elderly passengers on public transportation. There are designated priority seats for the elderly, pregnant women, and people with disabilities—do not occupy these unless you qualify.
• Trash Disposal: Seoul has strict waste disposal rules. Public trash bins are rare, so carry your trash with you until you find a proper disposal site. Recycling is also taken seriously, so separate your waste accordingly.
• No Tipping: Tipping is not customary in South Korea. Service charges are usually included in the bill.

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6. Cultural Norms and Practices

• Hierarchy and Respect: Age and social status play a significant role in Korean culture. Show deference to elders and superiors in both speech and behavior.
• Shoes Off Indoors: Remove your shoes when entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments. Slippers are often provided.
• Personal Space: While Seoul is a densely populated city, Koreans generally respect personal space. Avoid unnecessary physical contact, such as hugging, unless you are close to the person.
• Punctuality: Being on time is important, especially for business meetings or formal events. Arriving late can be seen as disrespectful.

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7. Additional Tips for Visitors

• Language Barrier: While younger Koreans and those in the service industry may speak some English, learning a few basic Korean phrases (e.g., "안녕하세요" [annyeonghaseyo] for "hello" and "감사합니다" [gamsahamnida] for "thank you") will go a long way in showing respect.
• Dress Code: Koreans tend to dress neatly and fashionably, especially in urban areas like Seoul. Avoid overly casual or revealing clothing in formal or traditional settings.
• Photography: Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially in temples or private spaces.
• Business Cards: In professional settings, exchange business cards with both hands and take a moment to read the card before putting it away.

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8. Common Costs and Practical Considerations

• Dining Out: A casual meal at a local restaurant may cost around 7,000–12,000 KRW, while a more upscale dining experience can range from 30,000–50,000 KRW per person.
• Transportation: The subway and buses are affordable and efficient, with fares starting at 1,250 KRW for a single ride. Use a T-money card for convenience.
• Gifts: A box of premium fruit or a set of traditional Korean snacks can cost between 20,000–50,000 KRW, depending on quality.

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By following these guidelines, you will demonstrate cultural awareness and respect, which will help you build positive relationships and enjoy your time in Seoul. Let me know if you need further assistance or specific recommendations!