Temples are active religious sites. Dress like you would for a quiet church: covered shoulders, no loud speakerphone, no drones.
Knees and shoulders covered. Remove hats in halls. Rental robes at some templestays. Hiking shorts are for the trail, not the Buddha hall.
Off at the hall threshold. Pointing soles at altars is rude. Follow the slipper shelf even if you see tourists ignoring it.
No flash inside. Never photograph monks in prayer without a clear OK. Exterior courtyards are usually fine.
Optional small offering in the box. Do not leave coins on statues. Templestay fees are paid when you book, not at the altar.
Book via templestay.com (Cultural Corps of Korean Buddhism). Expect a 108-prostration option, tea, and a 03:00β04:00 chant you can skip only if the program says so. Vegetarian meals. Lights-out is real. English-friendly programs exist at Jogyesa (Seoul), Golgulsa (Gyeongju), and several mountain temples β confirm language before you pay.