Small Korean Habits That Surprise Foreigners😛
(But Feel Totally Normal to Locals)
When you live in Korea—or even just visit—you quickly realize something interesting.
It’s not the big traditions that surprise people the most.
It’s the tiny, everyday habits that Koreans don’t even think about… but foreigners definitely notice 👀
Here are a few small Korean habits that often make visitors pause and say,
“Wait… really?” 😄
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| Holding the door open for someone behind you |
🧊 1. Iced Americano, Even in Freezing Weather
Winter in Korea can be cold, but that doesn’t stop people from ordering iced Americano.
Snow outside? Still iced. Windy and below zero? Also iced.
Many foreigners expect hot drinks to dominate winter menus, but cafés stay loyal to cold coffee all year round.
For Koreans, it’s not about temperature—it’s just habit.
Once you get used to it, hot coffee can actually feel… strange.
😅 2. Saying “Sorry” for Things That Aren’t Your Fault
Koreans apologize a lot.
Someone bumps into you? You say sorry.
The elevator door closes too fast? Sorry again.
This isn’t about guilt—it’s more about smooth social flow.
Saying “sorry” often means “excuse me,” “my bad,” or even “I understand.”
It keeps situations comfortable and avoids awkward tension.
⚡ 3. The Need for Speed in Daily Life
Korea runs fast—and everyone expects it.
Fast delivery, quick replies, rapid service at restaurants.
If something takes longer than expected, people get restless.
Waiting feels unnecessary when everything else moves so efficiently.
This speed culture isn’t stressful to locals—it’s simply the normal pace of life.
🛗 4. Pressing Elevator Buttons for Others
One small gesture that surprises many visitors:
people press elevator buttons for each other.
If someone is walking in behind you, you’ll often see a hand reaching out to press their floor number.
No words needed. It’s quiet courtesy—simple, efficient, and very Korean.
🍚 5. A Meal Doesn’t Feel Complete Without Rice
Here’s a big one.
You can eat noodles, bread, or even a full plate of food—but if there’s no rice, something feels missing.
Many Koreans say the same thing:
“I’m full… but I’m not satisfied.”
Rice isn’t just food—it’s the foundation of a proper meal.
Without it, the stomach may be full, but the heart isn’t 😌
Final Thoughts ✨
These habits aren’t written rules.
They’re just part of everyday life in Korea.
What feels surprising to foreigners feels completely natural to locals—and that’s what
makes cultural differences so interesting.
Which habit surprised you the most?
Or did any of these feel strangely familiar? 😊
