How to dress like a local in Seoul?

How to dress in Seoul as a tourist?

Dress code

Koreans are generally relaxed about attire, so feel free to dress for the weather and for comfort. However, the locals' attire leans more towards modest, so it's safest to leave more risqué choices at home. If you're visiting temples, keep in mind that shorts are OK but tank tops and miniskirts are not.

What is the no color dress code in Seoul?

The "no color" dress code in South Korea is a real and widely observed trend, especially in professional and urban settings. Many people prefer wearing neutral tones like black, white, gray, and beige, as these colors are seen as stylish, sophisticated, and appropriate for work or social settings.

Do and don'ts in Seoul, Korea?

Avoid making physical contact, such as bumping into others or standing too close, especially in queues or on public transportation. On the subway or bus, avoid sitting in the designated seating for elderly, disabled, and pregnant passengers, even if no other seats are available. This is seen as a sign of respect.

Do I need to dress conservatively in South Korea?

While Koreans are not overly conservative, expecting you to cover yourself from head to toe, they are a lot more modest than, for example, many Western countries that adopt modern western styles. The rules are a bit different between men's fashion and women's fashion.

Why are Koreans so slim? (from a Korean's perspective)

Can I wear a tube top in Korea?

Many foreigners and young, trendy [skinny] Koreans wear tube tops. There are no formal restrictions on covering shoulders etc. like there are in some countries but if you go to areas with few tourists and many old people, you might get stared at (which will probably happen regardless of what you wear).

What is impolite in Korea?

South Koreans consider it a personal violation to be touched by someone who is not a relative or close friend. Touching, patting, or back slapping is to be avoided during interactions. In addition, direct eye contact between juniors and seniors should be avoided because it is seen as impolite or even a challenge.

What not to take to South Korea?

Books, photos, films, and other items of similar nature that are in violation of constitutional orders, or may be harmful to public peace and customs. Items that contain confidential information on government or intelligence activities. Counterfeit, forged, or fake money, bank notes, bonds, and other securities.

How English friendly is Seoul?

While Seoul is the modern capital city of South Korea, many locals aren't fluent in English. It's generally not a very widely spoken language in South Korea. However, you'll have better luck finding a local who can speak English in main tourist neighborhoods, such as Myeongdong, Dongdaemun and Hongdae.

What not to wear in Seoul?

In Korea, the sense of modesty is different. This means you can wear your shorts, skirts, and dresses as short as you want. Since shoulders and cleavage are sexualized, make sure you wear blouses and T-shirts up to your neck. As foreigners, we are considered “curvier,” and our clothes make us appear “too sexy.”

Can I wear all black in Korea?

Don't wear all black

While black is a popular color in many parts of the world, it's not a color you'll see too often on the streets of South Korea, as it's primarily associated with funerals and mourning. Instead, try to incorporate some color into your outfit, even if it's just a small accessory like a scarf or hat.

Can you wear white in Korea?

Koreans have traditionally revered white color and enjoyed wearing white clothes. In Korea, white represents simplicity, asceticism, sadness, resistance against corruption, and the pursuit of innocence.

What are some strict rules in South Korea for tourists?

Some important laws to be aware of include the strict anti-drug policy, with severe penalties for possession or use of illegal substances. Smoking is prohibited in many public places, including restaurants, bars, and public transportation. It's also illegal to take photographs of military installations or personnel.

Can you wear leggings in Korea?

Leggings as bottoms

Western culture allows women to wear legging as pants, but this is not accepted in Korean fashion. Women in Korea typically wear leggings beneath shorts, skirts, or even pants. Even when wearing leggings without bottoms, they pair them with shirt dresses or long tops that provide more coverage.

What to know before visiting Seoul?

Do I need to bring toilet paper to South Korea?

Many public toilets in Korea don't have toilet paper in the cubicle. The dispenser is on the wall in the common area of the toilet and you have to collect the quantity you think you'll need and take it into the cubicle with you. Always check where the TP is before you get to the point of no return.

What are the unspoken rules in Korea?

While some unspoken Korean social norms, like taking your shoes off indoors, are more expected and common, others, like covering a bottle label when pouring drinks for elders, or waiting until they take their first bite, can catch foreigners totally off guard.

Can I bring toothpaste to Korea?

Liquids, sprays, gel-type cosmetics, toiletries (toothpaste, shampoo, etc.), or medicines. However, liquids in containers of 100 ml or less are allowed if placed in a single 1 L transparent ziplock bag (20.5 cm * 20.5 cm / 15 cm * 25 cm) per person, with no restrictions on domestic flights.

What are some taboos in Korea?

Is crossing your legs rude in Korea?

In Korea, it is considered rude to cross your legs in the presence of someone 'superior'. In Korea, that means higher in society, either through their job or their age. It isn't considered rude to cross your legs in front of friends and people of a similar (or lower) social standing as you.

Is it insulting to tip in Korea?

Tipping in bars and restaurants is not expected in South Korea, unlike in most countries in Europe and in the United States. The general rule is the service should be exceptional at all times, and with no expectation of extra pay. Tipping in South Korea can be considered rude and frowned upon.

Why do Koreans wear baggy jeans?

One common thing in Korean street style fashion is that Korean women like to wear oversized clothing to hide their body structure.

Can you show cleavage in Korea?

Although showing any cleavage is considered a big “no-no” in Korea, and off-shoulder tops and crop tops are a very recent addition to Korean women's wardrobe, there's one type of style that has never gone out of Korean fashion: mini bottoms.