Money
💸 Tipping is not expected
Korea is not a tipping economy. Service charge is in the price. Forcing cash onto a server can confuse the till.
Restaurants: no tip. If a service charge appears (some hotel restaurants), do not add another 15–20% on habit.
Taxis: meter fare is enough. Rounding up a few hundred won is optional, not required.
Hotels: porters in luxury properties may accept a small note; it is never mandatory. Housekeeping cash is uncommon.
Private guides / drivers: a modest extra at the end of a long custom day is understood if the work was excellent. Tour-bus packages already include wages.
If someone refuses a tip, smile and stop. Do not insist.
Cash vs cards → Etiquette →