Seoul is a city that offers an abundance of Korean culture and opportunity. Whether you are a tourist visiting the bustling capital, an international professional on business or a student beginning a new journey abroad, the cultural and social etiquette of Seoul is important to understand. Knowing how to properly tip in restaurants, splurge in tourist attractions and motivate with service providers is a skill that will ensure you have a successful and enjoyable time in the city.
In this article, you will be exploring the essential international etiquette when it comes to tipping in Seoul. This guide will teach you about the cultural and social norms of tipping, plus unique do's and don't to make sure you stand out for all the right reasons. From avoiding bad tips to leaving a lasting impression, you'll be mastering Seoul etiquette in no time.
When eating out at a restaurant in Seoul, it is customary to leave an additional 10% of the total bill as a tip for the server. This can be done in cash or via credit card. It is considered polite to ask the restaurant staff if they accept credit card payments before you leave the establishment. It is also important to give the tip directly to the server rather than leaving it on the table. Failing to leave a tip is considered very offensive and disrespectful in South Korea, so make sure you do so even if the service is poor.
When receiving tour guide services, it is considered polite to give the guide a tip depending on the quality of service. For instance, if the guide is knowledgeable and helpful, a tip of up to 10,000 KRW (Korean Won) is appropriate. You can give the tour guide the tip directly or through the tour company.
For transportation services, it is not necessary to give a tip unless the driver goes above and beyond their duties. If they assist you with your luggage or offer you helpful advice about the city, a small monetary gesture is appropriate. For instance, you could leave a tip between 500-1,000 KRW.
When staying in a hotel, it is polite to show your appreciation to the hotel staff. This includes housekeepers, doormen or front desk employees. The customary tip amount for these kinds of service providers is usually 1,000 KRW, although you can increase the amount depending on how helpful they were. It is worth noting that you do not need to leave a tip for every service provider; generally, tips are appreciated when shown gratitude for an additional service or act of kindness.
When visiting a hairdresser or barber in Seoul, a tip is not expected because these services are already expensive. However, if the service provider is especially helpful or friendly, a small gesture of appreciation, such as 1,000-5,000 KRW, is appropriate. It is also polite to leave a tip directly into the hands of your hair stylist or barber rather than on the counter or dresser.
In Seoul, tips are not expected when visiting a massage therapist. However, some massage therapists may politely ask for a tip, so it is best to have some extra change handy. A good rule of thumb is to leave a 10% tip, depending on the level of service provided. For instance, if the massage tends to cost you 40,000 KRW, then a 4,000 KRW tip is appropriate. Again, it is polite to give the tip directly to the therapist rather than leaving it lying around.
Tipping is an important part of dining and receiving services in Seoul, both as a sign of respect and to show appreciation. Although there is no hard and fast rule as to how much you should tip, it is important to factor in the level of service you receive into your final decision. Practicing common courtesy and giving tips directly to the service providers are also key components to remember when tipping in Seoul. Being aware of the above mentioned norms will help ensure that your dining and service experiences in South Korea are enjoyable for both you and the people you are tipping.
Mexico City, the culturally-rich metropolis, is full of flavor, customs, and fascinating people. One...
Istanbul is the epic cultural crossroads of the Eastern and Western World where East meets West in a...
Traveling to Cairo is an incredible experience that should be taken advantage of! The city’s...
