
Local Customs & Etiquette in Jeju, Jeju, Korea, South
1. Jeju Traditional Tea Ceremony
Experience the grace and etiquette of Jeju's traditional tea ceremony, offering insight into the island's unique cultural practices.
- Patience: Appreciate the art of serving and receiving tea in a slow, methodical manner.
- Courtesy: Learn to express gratitude through specific phrases and gestures.
- Respect: Understand the importance of bowing and following proper etiquette during the ceremony.
2. Bomun Market Etiquette
Navigate Jeju's bustling Bomun Market with local finesse, adhering to the island's unique market etiquette and customs.
- Bartering Skills: Practice haggling prices for the best deals on seafood and local goods.
- Courtesy: Adopt a polite and respectful demeanor when interacting with vendors and other shoppers.
- Patience: Understand that the pace of shopping may be slower compared to Western markets.
3. Jeju Dolhareubang Statues
Respect and admire the mysterious stone statues known as dolhareubang, symbolizing fertility and protection in Jeju folklore.
- Local Legends: Learn about the various legends surrounding these stone figures.
- Photography: Capture the essence of Jeju by photographing these iconic statues in scenic locations.
- Respect: Avoid touching or defacing these cultural artifacts as a sign of respect for their significance.
4. Jeju Local Food Etiquette
Savor Jeju's unique culinary offerings while adhering to local dining customs and etiquette.
- Sharing: Understand that meals are often shared among guests in a spirit of camaraderie.
- Courtesy: Use chopsticks gracefully, and offer help to others if needed.
- Tasteful Compliments: Express appreciation for the meal in a tactful and respectful manner.
5. Jeju Beach Etiquette
Relax on Jeju's beautiful beaches while adhering to local customs and practices for a harmonious experience.
- Respect: Pick up any trash and leave the beach as clean as you found it.
- Sunscreen: Apply sunscreen regularly to protect your skin from strong UV rays.
- Shared Space: Respect other beachgoers' personal space and avoid encroaching on their area.
6. Jeju Temple Etiquette
Visit Jeju's ancient temples with sensitivity and respect for local customs and beliefs.
- Dress Code: Wear modest clothing when visiting temples to show respect.
- Silence: Maintain a quiet and reverent atmosphere while inside the temple premises.
- Offerings: Participate in traditional rituals by making offerings if you wish, but do so respectfully and humbly.
7. Jeju Spa Etiquette
Relax and rejuvenate in Jeju's world-renowned spas while adhering to local customs and practices.
- Dress Code: Wear the provided uniform and follow instructions regarding clothing.
- Respect: Maintain silence and respect for others' privacy during your spa session.
- Tips: Tip your service provider if you feel the service was exceptional.
8. Jeju Wind Folk Museum
Explore the intriguing history of Jeju's wind-powered devices and the unique customs surrounding them.
- Innovation: Appreciate the ingenuity behind these wind-powered tools and their impact on daily life.
- Respect: Show appreciation for the preservation efforts of this cultural treasure.
- Interactivity: Participate in hands-on activities to better understand these wind-powered devices.
9. Jeju Olle Trail Etiquette
Experience Jeju's stunning landscapes on the Olle Trail while adhering to local hiking etiquette.
- Respect: Leave no trace and preserve the natural beauty of the trail.
- Silence: Enjoy the peaceful surroundings by maintaining a quiet atmosphere on the trail.
- Courtesy: Share the trail with other hikers, and offer assistance if needed.
10. Jeju Lava Tubes Etiquette
Explore Jeju's unique lava tubes with sensitivity to the fragile environment and local customs.
- Respect: Avoid touching or defacing the cave walls to preserve their natural beauty.
- Silence: Maintain a quiet atmosphere to fully experience the serene environment of the tubes.
- Safety: Follow the guide's instructions and pay attention to any safety warnings.
11. Jeju Horseback Riding Etiquette
Experience Jeju's beautiful landscapes on horseback while respecting local customs and practices.
- Respect: Treat the horses with kindness and understanding.
- Courtesy: Listen carefully to your guide's instructions and follow them closely.
- Safety: Wear a helmet and other safety gear provided, and adhere to all safety guidelines.
12. Jeju Traditional Music and Dance
Immerse yourself in Jeju's rich cultural heritage by attending a traditional music and dance performance.
- Respect: Appreciate the performers' artistry and dedication to preserving this tradition.
- Courtesy: Clap politely after each performance, and wait for the audience to disperse before leaving.
- Awareness: Learn about the stories and symbolism behind the music and dance performances.
13. Jeju Folk Village Etiquette
Step back in time at Jeju Folk Village by adhering to local customs and practices from the past.
- Respect: Show admiration for the preserved buildings and artifacts.
- Courtesy: Ask permission before entering any private residences or sacred spaces.
- Curiosity: Learn about the daily life and customs of Jeju's past residents from knowledgeable guides.
14. Jeju Mud Festival Etiquette
Join the fun at Jeju Mud Festival by following local customs and practices while having a muddy good time.
- Playfulness: Embrace the spirit of camaraderie and enjoy the various mud-based activities.
- Respect: Adhere to any rules or guidelines established for festival safety.
- Courtesy: Offer assistance and cooperation to fellow participants during the festival activities.
15. Jeju Market Street Food Sampling
Indulge in Jeju's delicious street food while adhering to local customs and practices.
- Courtesy: Use chopsticks gracefully, and offer help to others if needed.
- Respect: Follow local food etiquette by eating with your mouth closed and avoiding excessive noise.
- Taste: Savor the unique flavors of Jeju's street food offerings.