Tipping in Korea: What Foreigners Need to Know in 2026 (Restaurants, Taxis, Hotels)
One of the most common questions from first-time visitors to Korea is: "Should I tip?"
Tipping customs in Korea are very different from many Western countries — and in most cases, not tipping is completely normal.
This 2026 guide breaks down:
- 🍽️ Do you tip in Korean restaurants?
- 🚖 Should you tip taxi drivers?
- 🏨 Hotel and delivery service etiquette
- 🧭 When tipping is appreciated (or awkward)
1. Do You Tip at Restaurants in Korea? 🍽️
🇰🇷 In Korean culture, tipping at restaurants is not expected.
Most restaurants — from street food stalls to upscale dining — include service in the price.
- ✅ No tip required at casual or fast food places
- ✅ Even in fine dining, tipping is not common
- ❌ Leaving cash on the table may confuse or embarrass staff
💡 Many foreigners feel awkward not tipping, but in Korea, it’s normal — and actually appreciated when you follow local customs.
2. Tipping Taxi Drivers in Korea 🚖
Just like restaurants, tipping taxi drivers is not standard in Korea.
- 💳 Most taxis accept cards and have fixed fares
- 🧾 Fare is clearly shown on the meter — no negotiation needed
- ✅ Rounding up ₩100–₩500 is okay, but not expected
- ❌ Large tips may be politely declined
💡 Saying “감사합니다 (thank you)” sincerely is enough — and often more appreciated.
3. Do You Tip at Hotels in Korea? 🏨
Tipping culture at hotels is a little more flexible — but still not required.
- ✅ You may tip porters (₩1,000–₩2,000 per bag) at high-end hotels
- ✅ Room cleaning staff: tipping is rare but okay (₩1,000–₩2,000 left on desk)
- ❌ Front desk: no tip expected
- ❌ Budget or business hotels: no tipping at all
💡 Tip discreetly if you feel it's deserved — but never feel obligated.
4. What About Delivery Drivers, Guides, or Hair Salons? 🧾
Here’s what’s common in other service areas:
- 🚚 Delivery Drivers: No tip needed (app prices include service)
- 🧑🏫 Tour Guides: Small tip (₩5,000~₩10,000) appreciated, not required
- ✂️ Hair/Nail Salons: No tipping — praise or repeat visits mean more
💡 For personal guides or private drivers, tipping is more acceptable — especially if service was exceptional.
5. When Tipping Feels Awkward in Korea 😬
Unlike in some countries, tipping in Korea can actually make people uncomfortable.
- ❌ Staff may feel pressured or embarrassed
- ❌ Can be seen as a “show-off” or cultural misunderstanding
- ✅ If you want to show gratitude, write a thank-you note or give a small gift
💡 Cultural respect is more valued than money here.
6. Summary: Tipping Culture in Korea 2026 ✅
Here’s the quick rule: when in doubt, don’t tip.
| Service | Tipping Needed? | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Restaurants | ❌ No | Service included |
| Taxis | ❌ No | Fixed fare, no need |
| Hotels | Optional | High-end only, small tips |
| Tour Guides | Optional | Appreciated but not required |
👍 In Korea, not tipping is normal — and respectful.
Next up: How to open a bank account in Korea as a foreigner (2026 step-by-step guide).
