Korean Culture: Bowing in Korea - Why it Impresses Foreigners

Did you know about the unique Korean greeting customs that fascinate foreigners? 😊

Annyeonghaseyo! Today, I'd like to talk about Korean greetings, which are also very popular among foreigners.
One of the aspects that surprises and impresses foreign visitors to Korea is the bowing greeting.
Why is that? Let's find out together!

1️⃣ Why is bowing a special greeting?

In Korea, people bow to show respect and courtesy to the other person.
This method is used in all relationships regardless of age, ranging from casual greetings to formal greetings.
• "Annyeonghaseyo": When meeting for the first time or as the first greeting every morning!
• "Annyeonghi gaseyo": When someone is leaving, conveying a polite farewell.
• "Gamsahamnida": When expressing gratitude, bowing even deeper.
In foreign countries, people often simply wave or shake hands, so the Korean way of greeting feels very unique.

2️⃣ There are levels to greetings?!

Korean greetings are not simply about bowing, but the depth of the bow slightly changes the way feelings are conveyed.
• 15-degree bow: When casually inquiring about someone's well-being or greeting someone in passing.
• 30-degree bow: Used in everyday expressions of gratitude or at the beginning and end of a conversation.
• 90-degree deep bow: At weddings, funerals, or when expressing deep gratitude.
These subtle differences convey feelings more accurately to the other person.

3️⃣ What were the reactions of foreigners?

Recently, the polite behavior of three Korean women became a hot topic in China.
Their video, showing deep bows and expressions of gratitude, made a strong impression on the locals.
• “We should learn from this Korean culture!”
• “True politeness!”
This positive response has increased interest in Korean culture.
However, some people commented that excessive greetings felt a little awkward.

4️⃣ Easy Korean greetings for foreigners to learn

If you want to teach your foreign friends Korean greetings, start like this!
1. Make eye contact and smile brightly
2. Say "Annyeonghaseyo" and bow slightly
3. When expressing deeper gratitude, put your hands together neatly and bow at a 30-degree angle
By practicing these three simple steps, even foreigners can quickly become beloved greeting masters in Korea!

The charm of Korean greetings

Korean greetings go beyond simply expressing politeness,
They have the power to make relationships between people warmer and more friendly.
It's only natural that foreigners find this interesting, right? 😊

* K-Beauty Shop in Myeong Dong, Seoul, Korea - Find Alice Kim!