South Korea is known for its deep-rooted cultural traditions, advanced technology, and exceptional hospitality. However, when it comes to tipping, South Korea is quite different from Western countries. Unlike the United States or Europe, where tipping is expected in many service industries, tipping is neither customary nor required in South Korea. In fact, in some cases, offering a tip may even be considered unusual or unnecessary.

This guide will help you understand when and where tipping is appropriate in South Korea, how much to give if you choose to tip, and the best ways to show appreciation for good service.

Understanding Tipping Culture in South Korea

Tipping is not a standard practice in South Korea. Most locals do not tip, and service workers do not expect extra money beyond the price of a service. The country’s emphasis on exceptional customer service means that workers are generally paid fair wages and take pride in offering high-quality service without the expectation of gratuity.

Additionally, some businesses, particularly upscale hotels and restaurants catering to international tourists, may include a service charge in the bill. In such cases, no additional tipping is necessary.

Where and How Much to Tip in South Africa“>How Much to Tip in South Korea

1. Restaurants and Cafés

• Casual and mid-range restaurants: Tipping is not required. Simply paying the bill is sufficient.
• High-end restaurants: Some luxury establishments may add a 10% service charge. If no charge is included, a small tip (around 5–10%) may be accepted but is not expected.
• Street food and small eateries: No tipping is necessary.
• Cafés and coffee shops: There is no expectation to tip baristas or waitstaff.
• Service charge: If a service charge is included, there is no need to tip extra.

2. Hotels and Accommodation

Most hotels do not expect tips, but in international or high-end hotels, tipping may be accepted in some cases.

• Bellboys/Porters: ₩1,000–₩5,000 (roughly $1–$5) per bag if you want to show appreciation.
• Housekeeping: Tipping is not expected, but if you leave ₩5,000 ($4) with a note of thanks, it will likely be appreciated.
• Concierge: If the concierge provides exceptional service, a tip of ₩10,000 ($8) may be appropriate, but not necessary.
• Room service: No tip is required unless you are at a luxury hotel where international guests frequently tip.

3. Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services

Tipping taxi drivers is not the norm in South Korea.

• Regular taxi rides: No tip is necessary, but rounding up to the nearest ₩1,000 is a nice gesture.
• Ride-sharing services (e.g., Kakao Taxi): No tipping is required, and there is no in-app tipping option.
• Private drivers: If you have a private driver for a day, tipping around ₩10,000–₩20,000 ($8–$16) is optional but appreciated.

4. Tour Guides and Excursions

Unlike restaurants and taxis, tipping tour guides is more common, especially if they cater to international tourists.

• Private tour guides: ₩10,000–₩50,000 ($8–$40) per day, depending on the length of the tour.
• Group tour guides: ₩5,000–₩10,000 ($4–$8) per person is an appropriate tip.
• Drivers on private tours: If a driver accompanies the tour, a tip of ₩5,000–₩10,000 is a thoughtful gesture.

5. Spas and Wellness Services

Tipping is not standard at spas or beauty salons, but a small tip may be appreciated in high-end establishments.

• Massage therapists: No tip is expected, but a small tip of ₩5,000–₩10,000 may be accepted at luxury spas.
• Hairdressers and beauty treatments: Most salons do not expect tips, but rounding up the bill may be a courteous way to show gratitude.

6. Food Delivery and Other Services

Delivery drivers in South Korea do not expect tips, but a small token of appreciation can be given if desired.

• Food delivery drivers: Tipping is not expected, but rounding up the total bill or offering ₩1,000–₩2,000 may be appreciated.
• Grocery or package delivery: No tipping is necessary.

7. Public Restrooms and Attendants

Public restrooms in South Korea are usually free, and restroom attendants do not expect tips.

• Restroom attendants: No tipping is required, though some high-end facilities may have a donation box.

Key Tipping Etiquette in South Korea

• Tipping is not expected in most situations: Unlike Western countries, South Korea does not have a strong tipping culture.
• Check for service charges: Some upscale restaurants and hotels may already include a service charge, so no additional tip is needed.
• Tipping may sometimes be refused: Some service workers may politely decline tips, as they do not expect extra payment.
• Use small cash tips if necessary: If you do tip, using small denominations in cash is best.
• Be discreet when tipping: If you do leave a tip, place it in an envelope or hand it over discreetly.

Final Thoughts

Tipping in South Korea is generally not required, and most service workers do not expect gratuities. However, small tips may be accepted in high-end hotels, luxury restaurants, and for tour guides. Instead of tipping, excellent service is often rewarded with polite words of appreciation. By understanding local customs, you can enjoy a respectful and seamless travel experience in South Korea.