How Does Tipping Work in South Korea?
Last verified: 2025-06 · Asia
1The Quick Answer
Tipping is not customary in South Korea and can actually confuse or embarrass staff.
2What You Need to Know
Unlike many Western countries, South Korea has no tipping culture — staff are paid proper wages and gratuities are not expected. Attempting to tip in restaurants or taxis may cause awkward refusals or genuine confusion. Some upscale international hotels add a service charge automatically to the bill. The best appreciation you can show is returning to the establishment or leaving a positive review.
3Practical Tips
Practical Tips
- 1Do not leave cash on the table after a meal — staff may chase you down thinking you forgot it.
- 2Upscale hotels may include a 10% service charge on your bill, so check before adding extra.
- 3If you feel compelled to show appreciation, a small gift or kind words in Korean (gamsahamnida) are far more appropriate.
How does this compare?
Tipping rules in nearby and similar countries:
Do not tip in Japan. Tipping is considered rude and may cause embarrassment.
Tipping is appreciated and expected in tourist areas. 20–50 THB at restaurants, 20–100 THB for massage, round up taxi fares.
Do not tip in Singapore. A 10% service charge is automatically added to all restaurant bills. Tipping is not part of the culture.
Traveling to South Korea?
You might also need:
SafetyWing Travel Insurance
Medical coverage for travelers worldwide. Covers emergency care, hospital stays, and evacuation.
Wise (formerly TransferWise)
Send and spend money abroad using real mid-market exchange rates with no hidden fees.
Airalo eSIM
Instant eSIM for 190+ countries. Set up before you leave — no physical SIM card needed.
More About South Korea
South Korea has world-class public transport — the T-money card works on all Seoul Metro lines, city buses, and taxis nationwide.
Updated 2025-06
South Korea has world-class hospitals, but national health insurance does not cover tourists, making travel insurance essential.
Updated 2025-06
South Korea enforces strict drug laws and several unique statutes — cannabis is illegal even if it is legal in your home country.
Updated 2025-06
Dial 112 for police, 119 for fire and ambulance, and 1330 for the 24/7 English-language Korea Tourism Hotline.
Updated 2025-06
South Korea has no national dress requirements, but modest dress is expected at Buddhist temples, and Koreans themselves tend to dress very stylishly.
Updated 2025-06
The legal drinking age is 19 by Korean age reckoning, drinking in public is legal and common, and soju is the beloved national spirit.
Updated 2025-06
💰 See Tipping rules in all countries
Compare all countries →