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Are you planning to visit Korea soon? If so, you might be wondering what you need to know before you go. Korea is a fascinating country with a rich culture, delicious food, and stunning scenery. But it also has some quirks and challenges that you should be aware of. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your Korea trip.
1. Learn some Korean words and phrases. While many Koreans speak some English, especially in big cities like Seoul and Busan, it’s always polite and helpful to learn some basic Korean words and phrases. You can use them to greet people, order food, ask for directions, and express gratitude. Some useful ones are:
– 안녕하세요 (annyeonghaseyo) – Hello
– 감사합니다 (gamsahamnida) – Thank you
– 죄송합니다 (joesonghamnida) – Sorry
– 몇 시예요? (myeot siyeyo?) – What time is it?
– 어디예요? (eodi yeyo?) – Where is it?
– 이거 주세요 (igeo juseyo) – Please give me this
– 맛있어요 (masisseoyo) – It’s delicious
– 화장실이 어디예요? (hwajangshiri eodi yeyo?) – Where is the bathroom?
2. Get a T-money card. A T-money card is a prepaid transportation card that you can use to pay for buses, subways, taxis, and even some convenience stores and vending machines. It’s very convenient and saves you time and money. You can buy a T-money card at any convenience store or subway station for 2,500 won ($2) and top it up as needed. You can also download the T-money app on your phone and use it as a virtual card.
3. Download useful apps. Speaking of apps, there are some that can make your life easier in Korea. Some of the most popular ones are:
– KakaoTalk – The most widely used messaging app in Korea. You can use it to chat with your friends, make free calls, send stickers, and join group chats.
– KakaoMap – The best navigation app for Korea. It shows you the fastest and cheapest routes to your destination, whether by public transport, car, bike, or walking. It also has detailed maps of subway stations, bus stops, attractions, restaurants, and more.
– Naver – The most popular search engine and portal site in Korea. You can use it to find information, news, blogs, videos, images, and more.
– Papago – A translation app that supports Korean and 13 other languages. You can use it to translate text, speech, images, and websites.
– MangoPlate – A food app that helps you find the best restaurants near you based on your preferences and reviews from other users.
4. Try different types of Korean food. Korea has a diverse and delicious cuisine that goes beyond kimchi and bibimbap. You should try as many different dishes as possible to experience the variety of flavors and textures that Korean food offers. Some of the must-tries are:
– Samgyeopsal – Grilled pork belly slices that you wrap in lettuce leaves with garlic, ssamjang (a spicy soybean paste), and other side dishes.
– Jjimdak – Braised chicken with potatoes, carrots, onions, and glass noodles in a sweet and savory soy sauce.
– Tteokbokki – Spicy rice cakes with fish cakes, eggs, scallions, and cheese in a red chili sauce.
– Sundubu-jjigae – Soft tofu stew with seafood, meat, vegetables, and eggs in a spicy broth.
– Patbingsu – Shaved ice with red beans, fruits, ice cream, and various toppings.
5. Respect the elders and the culture. Korea is a very hierarchical and Confucian society where age and status matter a lot. You should always show respect to the elders and those who are senior to you in rank or position. Some ways to do this are:
– Bow slightly when greeting or saying goodbye to someone older or higher than you.
– Use honorifics when addressing or referring to someone older or higher than you.
– Use both hands when giving or receiving something from someone older or higher than you.
– Don’t sit before the elders do or start eating before they do.
– Don’t point at someone or touch their head or face.
Korea also has some unique customs and etiquette that you should follow to avoid offending anyone. Some of them are:
– Don’t wear shoes inside someone’s home or some public places like temples, schools, and saunas. There are usually slippers or sandals provided for you to wear instead.
– Don’t blow your nose in public or at the table. It’s considered rude and unhygienic. If you need to, excuse yourself and go to the bathroom or use a tissue discreetly.
– Don’t write someone’s name in red ink. It’s considered a sign of death or bad luck.
– Don’t leave chopsticks sticking out of your rice bowl. It’s a symbol of offering food to the dead.
– Don’t tip at restaurants, hotels, or taxis. It’s not expected or appreciated.
These are just some of the tips that can help you enjoy your Korea trip more. Of course, there are many more things to see, do, and learn in this amazing country. So, have fun, be open-minded, and explore as much as you can!