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1. Introduction: What is Filial Piety in Korea?
In Korea, showing respect for elders is an important part of the culture. This concept, known as filial piety (경로사상, Gyeongrosasang), is deeply rooted in Confucian traditions and emphasizes honoring and caring for older individuals in both family and society.
👉 “Why do Koreans give up their seats for the elderly on public transportation?”
👉 “Why do Koreans hand over objects with both hands?”
If you’ve ever wondered about these customs, this article will explain how respect for elders is practiced in Korea and what foreigners should know about Korean etiquette.
2. Main Body: Key Aspects of Filial Piety in Korea
1) Respect for Elders on Public Transportation
- In Korea, it is considered a basic courtesy to give up your seat for an elderly person on public transport.
- Special priority seats (경로석, Gyeongro-seok) are reserved for the elderly, pregnant women, and disabled individuals. Young people generally avoid sitting in these seats.
- For foreigners, this may seem unfamiliar, but in Korean society, this gesture is a sign of being a well-mannered and respectful citizen.
✅ TIP: If you’re on a subway or bus in Korea and see an elderly person standing, offering your seat is a great way to show respect!
2) The Importance of Honorifics in Korean Language
Korean is a language that changes based on age and social hierarchy.
- When speaking to elders, you must use honorific expressions (존댓말, Jondaetmal).
- For example, to a friend, you might say "밥 먹었어?" (Did you eat?), but to an elder, you would say "식사하셨습니까?" (Have you had a meal?)
- Also, addressing elders by their names is considered impolite. Instead, people call them “grandfather (할아버지),” “grandmother (할머니),” or “elder (어르신).”
✅ TIP: When greeting an elder in Korea, say "안녕하세요 (Annyeonghaseyo)" and slightly bow your head to show respect!
3) Using Both Hands When Giving and Receiving Items
- In Korea, it is customary to give and receive items with both hands when interacting with elders.
- For example, if you are handing money to an older person, using just one hand may be seen as impolite.
- Likewise, at a Korean drinking gathering, when an elder pours you a drink, you should receive it with both hands.
✅ TIP: Small gestures matter in Korea! When interacting with elders, always use both hands when passing objects or receiving something.
3. Conclusion: Embracing Korea’s Respectful Culture
Filial piety is at the heart of Korea’s cultural values and teaches people to show respect for older generations.
- Giving up seats for elders on public transport
- Using honorifics when speaking to older people
- Handing over objects with both hands
Understanding and practicing these customs will help foreigners adapt more smoothly to Korean culture and build positive relationships with locals.
✅ Easy ways for foreigners to show respect in Korea:
👉 Greet elderly people with "안녕하세요 (Annyeonghaseyo)" and a slight bow.
👉 Offer your seat to an elderly person when using public transport.
👉 Use polite speech (Jondaetmal) when speaking to older people.
“Respecting elders in Korea is not just about etiquette—it reflects a deep cultural value of honoring people.”
By understanding and following these customs, you can leave a great impression and experience a more meaningful connection with Korean society! 😊