The Ultimate Guide to Korean Culture: Traditions, Customs, and Must-Try Foods

Korean culture is a fascinating blend of ancient traditions and modern influences, shaping everything from social etiquette to one of the world's most powerful soft influences. South Korea has become a cultural powerhouse, shaping trends in music, fashion, and technology globally. Whether you’re planning to travel, study, or work in Korea, understanding its rich heritage and dynamic lifestyle is essential. Learning the Korean language not only deepens your appreciation for its customs but also strengthens your connection with one of the most rapidly expanding cultures in the world. To help you on this journey, Berlitz Thailand will guide you through Korean culture, covering everything you need to know in this blog.

Korean Culture: A Perfect Balance of Tradition and Modernity

Korean culture is deeply rooted in history yet thrives on innovation. From Confucian values to global entertainment dominance, here’s what defines Korean culture today:

• Confucian Influence: Respect for elders, strong family values, and hierarchical social structures still shape Korean interactions. These traditions are evident in language, workplace etiquette, and daily life. According to a study on Confucian influence in Korean corporate culture, Confucian values continue to dictate workplace behaviors, emphasizing loyalty, hierarchy, and social harmony. A recent analysis found that 72% of Korean employees work overtime, often unpaid, due to cultural expectations rooted in Confucian principles.

• K-Pop & Entertainment: Korea has taken the world by storm with its music, dramas, and films. Groups like BTS and BLACKPINK, along with blockbuster films like Parasite, have put Korean culture in the global spotlight. In 2023, the estimated overseas sales of K-pop amounted to 1.24 trillion won (approximately $893 million), marking a 34.3% increase from the previous year and exceeding 1 trillion won for the first time (Korea Herald).

• Technology & Innovation: Korea is one of the most technologically advanced countries, home to tech giants like Samsung and LG. From smart cities to AI-driven innovations, Korea is at the forefront of the digital revolution. The Guardian’s analysis on Korea’s cultural rise explores how technological advancements have fueled the Korean Wave (Hallyu), integrating digital platforms into everyday cultural expressions. The immersive entertainment market in South Korea generated revenue of USD 5.26 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 23.67 billion by 2030 (Grand View Research).

Korean Customs & Traditions

Korea has a rich heritage that continues to shape its customs and traditions. Here are some of the most important aspects of Korean life:

• Greetings & Etiquette: Bowing is the standard greeting, with different degrees of formality depending on the situation. Speech levels in the Korean language reflect social hierarchy, showing deep respect for elders and authority figures.

• Hanbok & Traditional Clothing: The hanbok, Korea’s traditional attire, is still worn on special occasions such as weddings and cultural holidays. It symbolizes elegance and historical pride.

• Important Celebrations:

  • Seollal (Lunar New Year): A time for honoring ancestors, exchanging gifts, and enjoying traditional dishes like tteokguk (rice cake soup).

  • Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving): Families gather to celebrate the harvest season, making offerings to ancestors and sharing festive meals.

  • Baek-il & Doljanchi: These ceremonies celebrate a baby’s 100th day and first birthday, marking significant milestones in Korean family traditions.

Korean Food & Cuisine: A Feast for the Senses

Korean cuisine is bold, flavorful, and diverse. Whether dining in a traditional Korean restaurant or exploring vibrant street food markets, here are must-try dishes:

• Kimchi & Banchan: No Korean meal is complete without kimchi, a fermented vegetable dish packed with flavor. Banchan (small side dishes) complement every meal, offering a mix of spicy, savory, and pickled flavors.

• BBQ & Grilled Meats: Samgyeopsal (grilled pork belly) and Galbi (marinated short ribs) are staples of Korean BBQ, where diners grill their own meat at the table.

• Korean Fried Chicken: Extra crispy, juicy, and available in flavors like soy garlic and spicy gochujang, Korean fried chicken is best paired with beer in the beloved Chimaek (chicken + beer) tradition.

• Tteokbokki & Street Food: Spicy rice cakes, fish cakes, and savory pancakes are a must-try when exploring Korea’s famous street food culture.

• Korean Desserts & Drinks: Cool down with Bingsoo (shaved ice with sweet toppings) or enjoy traditional drinks like Makgeolli (fermented rice wine) and Soju, Korea’s iconic distilled liquor.

Observing proper Korean dining etiquette, such as handling chopsticks correctly, refraining from leaving them upright in rice, and maintaining a steady eating pace, demonstrates cultural awareness and respect. Unlike in Japanese dining customs, where lifting a bowl while eating is acceptable—especially for drinking miso soup or eating rice with chopsticks—Korean table manners generally discourage raising one's bowl while eating.

Korean Language & Communication

Korean Language & Communication

To truly immerse yourself in Korean culture, learning the language is key. Here’s why:

• Honorifics & Speech Levels: The Korean language includes multiple levels of formality, demonstrating respect in social interactions.

• Hangul: The Korean Alphabet: Developed by King Sejong in the 15th century, Hangul is a scientific and easy-to-learn script designed for efficient communication.

• Konglish & Modern Trends: Korean culture blends English with Korean to create fun words like Hand Phone (mobile phone) and Fighting! (a term of encouragement).

• Common Korean Phrases: Knowing basic phrases like Annyeonghaseyo (Hello) and Gamsahamnida (Thank you) can make interactions smoother.

Korean culture is a dynamic blend of deep traditions and modern influences, making it one of the most exciting cultures to explore. Whether through its rich history, delicious food, or global entertainment industry, there’s always something new to discover about Korea.

Ready to immerse yourself in Korean culture? Start learning Korean with Berlitz Thailand today and unlock a whole new world of experiences! We offers structured language courses designed to help you master Korean efficiently, making your experience more meaningful.