Tips For First-Timers In South Korea \m/ (>_<) \m/

Before you plan for your trip, pack your clothes or imagine all the selfies you will take, you will NEED to educate yourself on the culture and language. Things that are common or every day behavior may be seen as rude in another part of the world.

LOCALS

It depends on your preference but one of the best decisions I made was staying by the locals. I loved going walking around and going to the supermarket by myself.

TIP:

My friend did her research and found our place on Airbnb! It saved us money and the person met with us when we landed and was SUPER helpful and kind.

PHOTOS

Be cautious when taking photos! Sometimes people would think I was taking photos of them when it was really of my surroundings. Be courteous and aware of personal space (common sense but still good to know/learn)

CULTURE

I made sure to study culture and customs because I didn't want to be seen as rude foreigner. I learned two important words:

1. 고맙습니다

gomabseubnida (which means thank you) I would often nod or bow depending on the person's age. Age is SUPER important over there.

2. 죄송 해요

joesong haeyo (which means I'm sorry)

Another cool thing was how people bond and form friendships over meals such as this one!

FOOD & DRINKS

Korean BBQ=LIFE

Do not serve yourself! This is a meal where you are served. I also learned to be SUPER polite if you are drinking with someone older than you, face away from them when you drink up. (And again do not serve yourself alcohol either!)

FRIENDS

I met so many friendly people from different parts of the world! Stay in contact and keep in touch with them. I learned so much about music and art from my new friends who were either visiting or who lived there.

NIGHT-LIFE

The night-life in Seoul is incredible and I had such a blast. However be careful and make sure to stay with your group! I saw that people loved practicing their English with me.

HUGE TIP:

Speak slowly! Anyone you speak with will appreciate it, trust me!