Tips for Dining out in Korea: What should you know?

I’ll Show you about tips for dining out in Korea. Do you need any tips for eating out in Korea? Sounds a bit odd, doesn’t it?

As a foreigner from another country who isn’t currently living in Korea, it’s essential to know some tips for dining out in Korea.

What tips do you need to know?

Tips for dining out in South Korea

Tips for Dining out in Korea

1. Don’t wait for the the staff when you’re ready to order

I think many countries, including the US and European countries, have a rule that you shouldn’t bother staff if the look busy. But here in Korea, it’s totally normal to flag down staff even if they seem so busy.

You can call the employees with a loud voice if they haven’t noticed you’re ready to order. It’s totally normal in Korea. So, no need to feel guilty about these things.

2. What do you call the staff in Korean?

Then what do you call the staff in Korean? Say these words loudly and raise your hand, ‘Jeo-ki-yo'(저기요), ‘E-mo-nim'(이모님), ‘Sah-jang-nim'(사장님).

1) Jeo-ki-yo

‘Jeo-ki-yo’ is the equivalent of ‘excuse me’ when calling the staff. It doesn’t sound particularly polite or impolite, but the word ‘Jeo ki yo’ is used by most Koreans.

2) E-mo-nim

‘E-mo’ means ‘aunt’, especially mother’s sister in Korean. And ‘nim’ is a respectful suffix used to address someone.

Combining these words, ‘E-mo nim’ refers to and employee appears to be a married older woman. But be careful! If you use this term to address a young lady emplyee, it can be very impolite.

3) Sah-jang-nim

This term is used to refer to all employees or employers with respect in Korea. It means ‘Boss’ or ‘President’. ‘Sa-jang-nim’ can also be used in situation when you meet someone(older) of any gender and don’t know their name.

But generally, it’s used to refer to a man, less commonly to a woman.

Tips for Dining out in Korea: Ring the bell on the table!

Did you know that in Korea, most restaurants make it easy for guests by placing a bell on every table?

When you ring the bell, staff will quickly come over to take your order. It’s a convenient feature of dining in Korea. The bell system is particularly helpful for those who may feel too shy to call out for assistance.

No matter how busy the staff may appear, just ring the bell when you’re ready to order.

How do I pay for my food?

Tips for Dining out in Korea

Instead of requesting the bill, you can check out without it. Simply stand by the cashier area when you’re finished with you meal. It’s also a cultural difference compared to other countries.

Tips for Dining out in Korea: Credit cards are always welcome

Using a credit card for payment is widely accepted at most restaurants in Korea. It is illegal for restaurants to refuse credit cards payments for meal checks.

Some restaurants, especially those in traditional markets popular among travelers, may not prefer to accept credit card payments. However, this practice is illegal and considered tax evasion.

In preparation for such situations, it’s wise to have cash on hand. Try to use credit credit cards for payments whenever possible.

Enjoy the delicious food in Korea!

If you’re familiar with the tips mentioned above, I’m confident you’ll have a fantastic trip in Korea. Enjoy your upcoming trip to Korea!

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