🥢 Eat like a local

Seven things that make eating in Korea easier.

Call staff with “여기요!”
Many tables have a call button. If not, say “yeogiyo!” (Excuse me!) or raise your hand — it is normal, not rude.
Water and side dishes are free
Water and banchan (side dishes) are free and usually refillable — just ask “더 주세요” (more, please) or help yourself at the self-service corner.
No tipping, tax included
Menu prices already include tax and there is no tipping in Korea. You often pay at the counter on your way out.
BBQ means 2 servings
Grill restaurants usually need 2+ servings (2인분). Solo? Try gukbap, gimbap, noodle or bibimbap places — they welcome one person.
Spoon for rice and soup
Rice and soup are eaten with the spoon; chopsticks (usually metal) are for side dishes. Don’t stand your spoon or chopsticks upright in rice.
Wrap it up
At BBQ, wrap meat with garlic and ssamjang in a lettuce or perilla leaf and eat it in one bite. Staff will often grill and cut for you.
Pour for others
When drinking, pour for others (not yourself first), receive a glass with both hands, and turn your head slightly away from elders when you drink.

Call staff with “여기요!”