10 Mistakes People Make When Visiting Seoul

For many first-time visitors to Seoul, it’s quite easy to just stay in Myeongdong or Dongdaemun – arguably among the city's most popular neighbourhoods. However, Seoul has many unique districts worth exploring. The subway is a convenient way of getting around – you can find a station within a 10-minute walk of sightseeing spots.

If you want a feel for authentic Korean culture, we highly recommend booking a hotel in Insa-dong. You’ll be within walking distance of iconic spots like Gyeongbukgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village.

Seoul is widely known for its excellent shopping and dining opportunities, as well as well-preserved palaces, temples, and villages. If you're craving time in the great outdoors, you're spoilt for choices.

At over 340 meters above sea level, Bugaksan Mountain (Baekaksan) is the highest peak in Seoul. Scenic trails take you through the city’s 15th-century gates and along ancient fortress walls. It takes about 2 hours to reach the top, where you can take in expansive views of Seoul and the Han River.

If you’re up for a day trip, Nami Island is a must-see just outside of Seoul. This scenic spot is very popular with couples, as it was the filming location for the 2002 K-drama series, Winter Sonata.

It’s common courtesy to refrain from speaking loudly when using public transportation in Seoul. In fact, most Koreans aren’t shy of reprimanding you for being loud – after all, they often use their time on the subway or bus to rest after a day at work.

A cultural norm in South Korea is using both hands when accepting something from an elder person. The same goes for giving, too. Using only one hand is considered rude and disrespectful.

This might be unfamiliar for those from western (and some Asian) countries, but it’s a nonverbal method of showing respect for your seniors and anyone above you in age, rank, or position.

Subway trains in Seoul have several seats reserved for the disabled, elderly, and pregnant people. You can find them at the far end of each motorcoach. Locals aren’t shy of reprimanding those who sit on these priority seats, so stick to the regular seats or stand if those are fully occupied.

Entering someone’s home without removing your shoes is a common mistake that people make when visiting Seoul. Many Asian households often dine, sit and sleep on the floor, so keeping it clean is a priority.

Some restaurants and teahouses in Seoul impose a no-shoe policy, so it’s always a good idea to check before entering.

The drinking culture in Seoul is more about socializing than getting inebriated. If someone older offers you a shot of soju, it’s actually a gesture of friendship. Refusing it is basically a form of disrespect to that person.

If you’re not a drinker, you may opt for a non-alcoholic beverage instead. After accepting, turn your head away from the elder to drink – it’s also a sign of respect.

If you’re dining with a group in Seoul, always wait for the eldest at the table to start eating first. Koreans also don’t leave the table as soon as you’ve finished the meal – you'd have to wait until the eldest person permits you to leave.  

It’s a good idea to pace yourself when enjoying a meal in South Korea, especially if you’re dining with locals.

While Seoul is the modern capital city of South Korea, many locals aren’t fluent in English. It’s generally not a very widely spoken language in South Korea.

However, you’ll have better luck finding a local who can speak English in main tourist neighborhoods, such as Myeongdong, Dongdaemun and Hongdae. These districts even have tourist information centres with English-speaking staff and travel brochures to help you navigate your way around the city. To be on the safe side, it’s a good idea to learn some basic phrases in Korean.

Korean bathhouses or jjimjilbang are great for unwinding after a day of sightseeing in Seoul. You can find gender-segregated bathhouses, hot tubs, snack bars, outdoor pools, fitness clubs, and noraebang (karaoke rooms).

What you might not know about these 24-hour sauna rooms is that they often serve as affordable accommodations for budget-conscious travelers. Spacious sleeping quarters with sleeping mats or bunk beds are available if you’re planning to spend the night.