Suwon, South Korea-travel-tips
Travel and Cultural Etiquette Tips for Tourists in Suwon, South Korea
Respect the Culture
- Bowing: When greeting someone or showing respect, a bow is customary. The depth and duration of the bow depends on the situation.
- Remove your shoes: In many traditional Korean homes and some temples, it’s customary to remove your shoes before entering.
- Use both hands: When giving or receiving something, use both hands as a sign of respect.
Food Etiquette
- Try local food: Suwon is famous for its street food. Be adventurous and try the popular dishes like hotteok (sweet pancake) and bungeo-ppang (fish-shaped pastry).
- Use chopsticks correctly: Hold your chopsticks in the right hand, with the top stick resting on the base of the bottom one.
- Finish what you start: It’s considered impolite to leave food on your plate, so finish what you’ve started eating.
General Etiquette
- Learn some Korean phrases: Show respect by learning basic Korean phrases like "" (annyeonghaseyo) for hello and "" (gamsahamnida) for thank you.
- Dress modestly: When visiting temples or other cultural sites, dress conservatively to show respect.
- Respect local customs: Avoid disrupting local customs or traditions, especially during festivals or special events.
Additional Tips
- Download a translation app: Suwon has many signs and menus that are written in Korean. Download a translation app to help you navigate.
- Be prepared for crowds: Popular tourist spots can get crowded quickly, so be patient and prepared for long lines.
- Try public transportation: Public transportation in Suwon is efficient and affordable. Try using the buses or subway to get around.