Korean Manners Explained: Body Language, Bowing, and More

Korean manners

"You said the right words, but something still felt off."

When interacting in Korea, it’s not just about speaking Korean phrases or using the right honorifics. Body language plays a powerful role in how you connect with Koreans. From subtle eye movements to posture and proximity, understanding Korean etiquette means mastering the unspoken. Let’s uncover the body language and non-verbal etiquette rules that shape Korean society.

1. Why Body Language Matters So Much in Korean Culture

Korean society is considered a high-context culture, meaning much of the message is conveyed through context, not direct language. Non-verbal cues like bowing, eye contact, and posture are essential tools for expressing respect, disagreement, or even emotional restraint.

For foreigners trying to understand Korean culture, recognizing these silent signals is a must. In many social settings, actions speak louder than words. If you want to show respect and connect authentically, you need to learn both the verbal and non-verbal side of the Korean language.

2. The Korean Bow: More Than Just a Greeting

Bowing is one of the most recognizable forms of etiquette in Korea, and also one of the most nuanced.

There are generally three bow types:

  • 15° bow: A casual greeting among peers or younger people.

  • 30° bow: A standard polite greeting, often used in daily life or business.

  • 45° bow: A respectful bow used in formal situations or to show sincere respect.

  • 90° bow: Deep respect, used for elders, apologies, or ceremonies.

The depth, speed, and posture of the bow reflect sincerity. A sloppy or rushed bow can come off as disrespectful. Eye direction also matters: looking down slightly is more respectful than direct eye contact.

🙇 Pronunciation tip: Bow lightly while saying “안녕하세요 (Annyeonghaseyo)” to make a great first impression in Korea.

3. Facial Expressions: The Art of Polite Smiling

Facial expressions in Korean culture are a language of their own. Koreans often smile to ease social tension, mask discomfort, or express politeness rather than joy.

This polite smile is part of Korean social etiquette, especially in service or formal settings. But don’t confuse it for genuine happiness: the eyes and posture reveal more.

Tip: A small smile with a slight bow is seen as good manners, even if you feel awkward. It’s part of the non-verbal code in Korea.

4. Eye Contact: Too Much? Or Not Enough?

In some cultures, strong eye contact shows confidence. But in South Korea, too much eye contact, especially with someone older or in authority, may seem aggressive.

Instead, brief eye contact followed by a respectful glance downward is typical. During business or formal introductions, avoid staring. In casual settings with Korean friends, more eye contact is acceptable, but still softer than in Western norms.

Tip: When in doubt, follow the lead of the person you're speaking to. Context is everything in Korean etiquette.

5. Posture, Proximity, and Respect

In Korean society, posture and space signal respect. Standing up straight in formal settings is a sign of respect, while slouching may be seen as lazy or disrespectful.

Proximity also varies:

  • Closer among friends and peers

  • More distance with elders, bosses, or strangers

In Korean public transport, standing quietly, keeping your hands visible, and avoiding loud behavior shows you understand important aspects of Korean manners and etiquette.

6. Hands, Gestures, and the Famous ‘Two-Hand Rule’

In Korea, use both hands when giving or receiving something: a drink, gift, or even a business card. It’s a deeply ingrained etiquette rule, especially when dealing with someone older or in a formal setting.

Other hand-related etiquette:

  • Cover your mouth when laughing

  • Avoid pointing, especially with your index finger:  it's rude in Korea

  • Don’t beckon with your palm up like in the West

 Tip: It’s good manners to support your right arm with your left when you give or receive something.

7. Common Body Language Mistakes Foreigners Make

Foreigners often unintentionally break Korean etiquette rules by:

  • Over-gesturing or speaking with their hands

  • Laughing too loudly in public

  • Standing with hands in pockets while speaking

  • Maintaining intense eye contact

These may seem normal elsewhere, but in traditional Korean settings, they can seem rude or overly casual.

Tip: If you want to leave a great first impression in Korea, practice subtlety. Less is often more.

8. How to Practice: Real Tips for Learners

Ready to refine your non-verbal Korean communication?

  • Watch K-dramas or reality shows on mute. Try reading emotions based on expressions and posture.

  • Record yourself bowing and smiling in a mirror.

  • Ask a Korean speaker for feedback on your gestures.

These techniques are part of our guide to Korean fluency at Berlitz: helping you learn more about Korean culture in and out of the classroom.

9. Final Thoughts: Learn the Unspoken Rules with Berlitz

Understanding Korean manners means listening with your eyes, not just your ears. Whether you want to make friends, work in a Korean business world, or travel to Korea, mastering body language will help you feel confident and respected.

At Berlitz, we don’t just teach the Korean language. We help you become fluent in the culture, too. Enroll in our Korean programs to build both verbal skills and cultural intelligence.

 

If you're interested in Korean learning..


Korean Pronunciation Tips: How to sound native

A Traveler's Guide to Customs and Etiquette in Korea

How to Say Hi in Korean: Casual vs. Formal Greetings


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