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<div class="pg_page_title">[[Language/Korean|Korean]]  → [[Language/Korean/Culture|Culture]] → [[Language/Korean/Grammar/0-to-A1-Course|0 to A1 Course]] → Korean Etiquette</div>


<div class="pg_page_title">Korean Culture → Korean Culture and Customs → Korean Etiquette</div>
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Korean etiquette is an integral part of Korean culture. It reflects the Confucian values that prioritize respect for hierarchy, family, and community. In this lesson, you will learn about bowing, showing respect, and other important cultural norms in Korea.
== Introduction ==


In this lesson, we will explore Korean etiquette and social customs. Understanding and practicing proper etiquette is an essential aspect of Korean culture, as it reflects respect, harmony, and consideration for others. By learning about Korean etiquette, you will gain valuable insights into the Korean way of life and be able to navigate social interactions with confidence and respect. Throughout this lesson, we will delve into various aspects of Korean etiquette, including bowing, showing respect, and other important cultural norms in Korea. So let's dive in and discover the fascinating world of Korean etiquette!


<span link>Take some time to dive into these other pages after completing this lesson: [[Language/Korean/Culture/Korean-Pottery|Korean Pottery]] & [[Language/Korean/Culture/Korean-Paper-Crafts|Korean Paper Crafts]].</span>
== Bowing ==
== Bowing ==
Bowing is a common way of showing respect in Korea. We bow to greet people, as a sign of gratitude, and to apologize. There are different levels of bowing, depending on the situation and the status of the person you are bowing to. Here are some examples of how to bow in different situations:
 
=== The Importance of Bowing ===
 
Bowing is a fundamental aspect of Korean etiquette and is deeply ingrained in Korean culture. It is a way of showing respect, gratitude, and humility towards others. Bowing is not only reserved for formal occasions but is also commonly practiced in daily life, such as when greeting someone or expressing thanks. Koreans believe that bowing is a way to convey sincerity and to acknowledge the social hierarchy. It is important to note that the depth and duration of the bow may vary depending on the situation and the person you are bowing to.
 
=== How to Bow Properly ===
 
To bow properly, follow these guidelines:
 
# Stand upright with your feet together.
# Keep your hands naturally by your sides.
# Lower your upper body from the waist, bending forward.
# Maintain eye contact with the person you are bowing to, showing respect and acknowledgment.
# The depth of the bow depends on the situation and the level of respect you want to convey. A slight nod of the head is usually sufficient in informal situations, while a deeper bow is appropriate for more formal occasions.
 
=== Types of Bows ===
 
In Korea, there are different types of bows that vary in depth and formality. Here are some common types of bows:
 
==== Eojireoun Jureum (Casual Bow) ====
 
This is the most common and informal type of bow. It is a slight nod of the head while keeping the upper body upright. It is commonly used when greeting friends, colleagues, or acquaintances in casual settings.
 
==== Jjeolreoun Jureum (Respectful Bow) ====
 
This bow is deeper and more formal than the casual bow. It is used to show respect to elders, superiors, or individuals of higher social status. The upper body is bent forward at a 45-degree angle, and the duration of the bow is slightly longer than the casual bow.
 
==== Gyeongreoun Jureum (Formal Bow) ====
 
The formal bow is the deepest and most respectful bow. It is reserved for highly formal occasions or when showing utmost respect, such as bowing to elders or during ceremonies. The upper body is bent forward at a 90-degree angle, and the duration of the bow is longer than the other types of bows.
 
=== Cultural Insight: Bowing in Korean Society ===
 
Bowing is deeply ingrained in Korean society and is considered a crucial aspect of Korean culture. It is not only a gesture of respect but also a way to establish and maintain harmonious relationships. In Korean society, the act of bowing is not limited to greeting or showing respect to individuals but also extends to showing respect to ancestors, spirits, and even objects. Koreans believe that bowing is a way to connect with others on a deeper level and to express sincerity and humility.
 
== Showing Respect ==
 
=== Honorific Language ===
 
In Korean culture, showing respect is of utmost importance, and one way to do so is through the use of honorific language. Honorific language is a linguistic form used to show respect towards individuals of higher social status, age, or authority. It is essential to understand and use honorific language correctly to avoid unintentionally causing offense or appearing disrespectful.
 
=== Examples of Honorific Language ===
 
Here are some examples of honorific language:


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
! Bow Type !! Korean !! English
! Korean !! Pronunciation !! English
|-
|-
| Greeting Bow || 절하다 (jeolhada) || A slight nod of the head and shoulders
| 선생님 (seonsaengnim) || seon-saeng-nim || Teacher (honorific)
|-
|-
| Formal Bow || 경례하다 (gyeongryehada) || A 30-degree bow, with the hands on the sides or in front of the body
| 아버님 (abeonim) || a-beo-nim || Father (honorific)
|-
|-
| Respectful Bow || 인사하다 (insahada) || A 45-degree bow, with the hands clasped in front of the body
| 어머님 (eomeonim) || eo-meo-nim || Mother (honorific)
|-
|-
| Deep Bow || 최면하다 (choemyeonhada) || A 90-degree bow, with the hands on the sides or on the floor
| 존댓말 (jondaemal) || jon-daemal || Honorific language
|}
|}


It is important to note that bowing is not just a physical gesture, but also a way of showing respect and sincerity. When you bow, maintain eye contact and show a genuine attitude of respect.
In the examples above, you can see that honorific language is often indicated by the suffix "-님" (-nim) added to the end of a word. It is important to note that honorific language goes beyond simple vocabulary changes and also involves changes in verb endings, speech levels, and sentence structure.
 
=== Cultural Insight: Confucian Influence on Respect ===
 
The emphasis on respect in Korean culture can be traced back to Confucianism, which has greatly influenced Korean society for centuries. Confucian principles emphasize hierarchical relationships, respect for elders, and the importance of maintaining harmony within society. These principles continue to shape Korean values and social interactions, with respect being a central component of Korean etiquette.
 
== Other Important Etiquette and Customs ==
 
=== Removing Shoes ===
 
In Korean culture, it is customary to remove your shoes when entering someone's home or certain public places, such as traditional restaurants or temples. This practice is rooted in the belief that shoes carry dirt and impurities from the outside and should not be brought into clean and sacred spaces. When entering a Korean home, you should remove your shoes at the entrance and place them neatly on a shoe rack. It is common for households to provide slippers or socks for guests to wear inside.
 
=== Hand Gestures ===
 
Hand gestures are an essential aspect of nonverbal communication in Korean culture. While some hand gestures may have universal meanings, others have specific cultural connotations in Korea. For example, pointing with your index finger is considered impolite, so it is better to use an open hand or gesture with your chin. Additionally, excessive gesturing or waving your arms around while speaking may be seen as rude or aggressive. It is important to be mindful of your hand gestures and to observe the gestures of others to ensure effective and respectful communication.


== Showing Respect ==
=== Cultural Insight: The Influence of Confucianism on Korean Etiquette ===
Respect is a core value in Korean culture. It is shown through our actions, words, and attitudes. Here are some ways to show respect in Korean culture:
 
Confucianism has had a significant influence on Korean etiquette and customs. Confucian principles emphasize the importance of social harmony, filial piety, and respect for hierarchical relationships. These principles have shaped Korean society, including its etiquette practices, for centuries. The influence of Confucianism can be seen in various aspects of Korean culture, such as the emphasis on bowing, honorific language, and respect for elders.
 
== Exercises ==
 
Now, let's practice what we have learned about Korean etiquette! Choose the correct response for each situation:
 
1. You meet your Korean friend's parents for the first time. How should you greet them?
a) Bow deeply and maintain eye contact.
b) Give them a firm handshake.
c) Hug them warmly.
 
2. You are invited to a traditional Korean wedding. What should you do when entering the wedding venue?
a) Keep your shoes on.
b) Remove your shoes and place them on a shoe rack.
c) Wear slippers provided by the venue.
 
3. You are having a meal at a Korean restaurant. What should you do with your chopsticks when you are not using them?
a) Place them on the table.
b) Cross them on your plate.
c) Lay them on the chopstick rest.


* Use honorifics: In Korean, there are different levels of politeness and formality, depending on the relationship between the speaker and the listener. Using honorifics (존댓말 jon-daet-mal) is a way to show respect and humility.
4. You are introducing yourself to a group of Korean elders. Which language style should you use?
* Offer food and drinks: When you have guests, it is customary to offer them food and drinks as a sign of hospitality and respect.  
a) Casual language.
* Use two hands: When you hand something to someone, or receive something from someone, use both hands as a sign of respect.
b) Honorific language.
* Use titles: In Korean, titles are used to address people of higher rank, age, or social status. For example, calling someone 선생님 (seonsaengnim) is a sign of respect for a teacher.
c) Informal language.


== Other Important Cultural Norms ==
5. You accidentally bump into someone on the street. What should you do?
Along with bowing and showing respect, there are other cultural norms in Korean society that are important to know:
a) Apologize and bow slightly.
b) Ignore them and keep walking.
c) Laugh it off and continue walking.


* Removing shoes: In many Korean homes and traditional settings, shoes are not worn inside. Instead, they are placed outside the entrance or in a designated area inside.
== Exercise Solutions ==
* Sitting position: In Korean culture, sitting cross-legged is considered impolite. Instead, sit with your legs bent to one side or both legs flat on the ground.
* Gift-giving: In Korean culture, gift-giving is a way to show appreciation and respect. When visiting someone's home, bringing a small gift such as fruit, flowers or snacks is a common practice.
* Age hierarchy: In Korean culture, age plays an important role in social interactions. Elders are shown great respect, and younger people are expected to use polite language and honorifics when speaking with them.


By understanding these cultural norms, you will be able to navigate social situations in Korea with confidence and respect.
1. a) Bow deeply and maintain eye contact.
2. b) Remove your shoes and place them on a shoe rack.
3. c) Lay them on the chopstick rest.
4. b) Honorific language.
5. a) Apologize and bow slightly.


<span class='maj'></span>
== Conclusion ==
==Sources==
* [https://culturalatlas.sbs.com.au/south-korean-culture/south-korean-culture-etiquette South Korean Culture - Etiquette — Cultural Atlas]
* [https://www.90daykorean.com/korean-etiquette/ Korean Etiquette: 11 Common Mistakes]
* [https://inmykorea.com/korean-etiquette-culture-manners-insights/ Korean Etiquette, Culture And Manners: 35 Useful Insights]


{{#seo:
In this lesson, we explored Korean etiquette and social customs. We learned about the importance of bowing, showing respect through honorific language, and other important cultural norms in Korea. By understanding and practicing Korean etiquette, you will be able to navigate social interactions with confidence and respect. Remember, etiquette is not just a set of rules; it is a reflection of respect, harmony, and consideration for others. So go forth, embrace Korean etiquette, and enjoy the rich cultural experiences that Korea has to offer!
|title=Korean Culture and Customs - Korean Etiquette Lesson
|keywords=Korean culture, Korean customs, Korean etiquette, Korean values, showing respect in Korea, bowing in Korea, Korean honorifics, Korean gift-giving
|description=In this lesson, you will learn about bowing, showing respect, and other important cultural norms in Korea. Learn about Korean etiquette and customs with this Complete 0 to A1 Korean Course.
}}


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==Videos==
==Videos==
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===South Korean Business Culture – Top 5 Tips - YouTube===
===South Korean Business Culture – Top 5 Tips - YouTube===
<youtube>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=reTl-DlaEgM</youtube>
<youtube>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=reTl-DlaEgM</youtube>
==Sources==
* [https://culturalatlas.sbs.com.au/south-korean-culture/south-korean-culture-etiquette South Korean Culture - Etiquette — Cultural Atlas]
* [https://www.90daykorean.com/korean-etiquette/ Korean Etiquette: 11 Common Mistakes]
* [https://inmykorea.com/korean-etiquette-culture-manners-insights/ Korean Etiquette, Culture And Manners: 35 Useful Insights]


==Other Lessons==
==Other Lessons==
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* [[Language/Korean/Culture/Korean-National-Parks|Korean National Parks]]
* [[Language/Korean/Culture/Korean-National-Parks|Korean National Parks]]
* [[Language/Korean/Culture/Korean-Dramas|Korean Dramas]]
* [[Language/Korean/Culture/Korean-Dramas|Korean Dramas]]


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Latest revision as of 20:17, 17 June 2023

◀️ Family and Friends — Previous Lesson Next Lesson — Korean Holidays ▶️

Korean-Language-PolyglotClub.png
Korean → Culture → 0 to A1 Course → Korean Etiquette

Introduction[edit | edit source]

In this lesson, we will explore Korean etiquette and social customs. Understanding and practicing proper etiquette is an essential aspect of Korean culture, as it reflects respect, harmony, and consideration for others. By learning about Korean etiquette, you will gain valuable insights into the Korean way of life and be able to navigate social interactions with confidence and respect. Throughout this lesson, we will delve into various aspects of Korean etiquette, including bowing, showing respect, and other important cultural norms in Korea. So let's dive in and discover the fascinating world of Korean etiquette!

Bowing[edit | edit source]

The Importance of Bowing[edit | edit source]

Bowing is a fundamental aspect of Korean etiquette and is deeply ingrained in Korean culture. It is a way of showing respect, gratitude, and humility towards others. Bowing is not only reserved for formal occasions but is also commonly practiced in daily life, such as when greeting someone or expressing thanks. Koreans believe that bowing is a way to convey sincerity and to acknowledge the social hierarchy. It is important to note that the depth and duration of the bow may vary depending on the situation and the person you are bowing to.

How to Bow Properly[edit | edit source]

To bow properly, follow these guidelines:

  1. Stand upright with your feet together.
  2. Keep your hands naturally by your sides.
  3. Lower your upper body from the waist, bending forward.
  4. Maintain eye contact with the person you are bowing to, showing respect and acknowledgment.
  5. The depth of the bow depends on the situation and the level of respect you want to convey. A slight nod of the head is usually sufficient in informal situations, while a deeper bow is appropriate for more formal occasions.

Types of Bows[edit | edit source]

In Korea, there are different types of bows that vary in depth and formality. Here are some common types of bows:

Eojireoun Jureum (Casual Bow)[edit | edit source]

This is the most common and informal type of bow. It is a slight nod of the head while keeping the upper body upright. It is commonly used when greeting friends, colleagues, or acquaintances in casual settings.

Jjeolreoun Jureum (Respectful Bow)[edit | edit source]

This bow is deeper and more formal than the casual bow. It is used to show respect to elders, superiors, or individuals of higher social status. The upper body is bent forward at a 45-degree angle, and the duration of the bow is slightly longer than the casual bow.

Gyeongreoun Jureum (Formal Bow)[edit | edit source]

The formal bow is the deepest and most respectful bow. It is reserved for highly formal occasions or when showing utmost respect, such as bowing to elders or during ceremonies. The upper body is bent forward at a 90-degree angle, and the duration of the bow is longer than the other types of bows.

Cultural Insight: Bowing in Korean Society[edit | edit source]

Bowing is deeply ingrained in Korean society and is considered a crucial aspect of Korean culture. It is not only a gesture of respect but also a way to establish and maintain harmonious relationships. In Korean society, the act of bowing is not limited to greeting or showing respect to individuals but also extends to showing respect to ancestors, spirits, and even objects. Koreans believe that bowing is a way to connect with others on a deeper level and to express sincerity and humility.

Showing Respect[edit | edit source]

Honorific Language[edit | edit source]

In Korean culture, showing respect is of utmost importance, and one way to do so is through the use of honorific language. Honorific language is a linguistic form used to show respect towards individuals of higher social status, age, or authority. It is essential to understand and use honorific language correctly to avoid unintentionally causing offense or appearing disrespectful.

Examples of Honorific Language[edit | edit source]

Here are some examples of honorific language:

Korean Pronunciation English
선생님 (seonsaengnim) seon-saeng-nim Teacher (honorific)
아버님 (abeonim) a-beo-nim Father (honorific)
어머님 (eomeonim) eo-meo-nim Mother (honorific)
존댓말 (jondaemal) jon-daemal Honorific language

In the examples above, you can see that honorific language is often indicated by the suffix "-님" (-nim) added to the end of a word. It is important to note that honorific language goes beyond simple vocabulary changes and also involves changes in verb endings, speech levels, and sentence structure.

Cultural Insight: Confucian Influence on Respect[edit | edit source]

The emphasis on respect in Korean culture can be traced back to Confucianism, which has greatly influenced Korean society for centuries. Confucian principles emphasize hierarchical relationships, respect for elders, and the importance of maintaining harmony within society. These principles continue to shape Korean values and social interactions, with respect being a central component of Korean etiquette.

Other Important Etiquette and Customs[edit | edit source]

Removing Shoes[edit | edit source]

In Korean culture, it is customary to remove your shoes when entering someone's home or certain public places, such as traditional restaurants or temples. This practice is rooted in the belief that shoes carry dirt and impurities from the outside and should not be brought into clean and sacred spaces. When entering a Korean home, you should remove your shoes at the entrance and place them neatly on a shoe rack. It is common for households to provide slippers or socks for guests to wear inside.

Hand Gestures[edit | edit source]

Hand gestures are an essential aspect of nonverbal communication in Korean culture. While some hand gestures may have universal meanings, others have specific cultural connotations in Korea. For example, pointing with your index finger is considered impolite, so it is better to use an open hand or gesture with your chin. Additionally, excessive gesturing or waving your arms around while speaking may be seen as rude or aggressive. It is important to be mindful of your hand gestures and to observe the gestures of others to ensure effective and respectful communication.

Cultural Insight: The Influence of Confucianism on Korean Etiquette[edit | edit source]

Confucianism has had a significant influence on Korean etiquette and customs. Confucian principles emphasize the importance of social harmony, filial piety, and respect for hierarchical relationships. These principles have shaped Korean society, including its etiquette practices, for centuries. The influence of Confucianism can be seen in various aspects of Korean culture, such as the emphasis on bowing, honorific language, and respect for elders.

Exercises[edit | edit source]

Now, let's practice what we have learned about Korean etiquette! Choose the correct response for each situation:

1. You meet your Korean friend's parents for the first time. How should you greet them? a) Bow deeply and maintain eye contact. b) Give them a firm handshake. c) Hug them warmly.

2. You are invited to a traditional Korean wedding. What should you do when entering the wedding venue? a) Keep your shoes on. b) Remove your shoes and place them on a shoe rack. c) Wear slippers provided by the venue.

3. You are having a meal at a Korean restaurant. What should you do with your chopsticks when you are not using them? a) Place them on the table. b) Cross them on your plate. c) Lay them on the chopstick rest.

4. You are introducing yourself to a group of Korean elders. Which language style should you use? a) Casual language. b) Honorific language. c) Informal language.

5. You accidentally bump into someone on the street. What should you do? a) Apologize and bow slightly. b) Ignore them and keep walking. c) Laugh it off and continue walking.

Exercise Solutions[edit | edit source]

1. a) Bow deeply and maintain eye contact. 2. b) Remove your shoes and place them on a shoe rack. 3. c) Lay them on the chopstick rest. 4. b) Honorific language. 5. a) Apologize and bow slightly.

Conclusion[edit | edit source]

In this lesson, we explored Korean etiquette and social customs. We learned about the importance of bowing, showing respect through honorific language, and other important cultural norms in Korea. By understanding and practicing Korean etiquette, you will be able to navigate social interactions with confidence and respect. Remember, etiquette is not just a set of rules; it is a reflection of respect, harmony, and consideration for others. So go forth, embrace Korean etiquette, and enjoy the rich cultural experiences that Korea has to offer!

Table of Contents - Korean Course - 0 to A1[edit source]


Korean Alphabets


Greetings and Introductions


Korean Culture and Customs


Sentence Building


Daily Routine


Korean Pop Culture


Describing People and Things


Food and Drinks


Korean Traditions


Verb Tenses


Travel and Sightseeing


Korean Arts and Crafts


Conjunctions and Connectors


Health and Body


Korean Nature

Videos[edit | edit source]

Korean Etiquette and Manners - YouTube[edit | edit source]

12 Wacky Things Korean Culture - YouTube[edit | edit source]

Korean culture - How to be loved / Korean etiquette - YouTube[edit | edit source]

South Korean Business Culture – Top 5 Tips - YouTube[edit | edit source]


Sources[edit | edit source]


Other Lessons[edit | edit source]



◀️ Family and Friends — Previous Lesson Next Lesson — Korean Holidays ▶️

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