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Tipping in South Korea

KRWLast reviewed · Jul 2026

Tipping is not part of local culture. Pay the bill as shown. Extra gratuity can confuse staff and is often refused or handed back. Luxury hotels may include a service charge, but everyday restaurants, cafés, and taxis need nothing on top.

No tipping culture

Quick answer

Restaurant
Standard:No tipping
Bar
Standard:No tipping
Taxi
Standard:No tipping

How to tip in South Korea

Do not tip in restaurants or bars
Tipping may be refused or cause confusion
Small rounding may occur in taxis when paying cash

Quick tips

Tipping is not expected in South Korea
Luxury hotels may include a service charge

More tipping situations (8)

DeliveryNo tipping
Hairdresser / BarberNo tipping
Spa & MassageNo tipping
Hotel StaffNo tipping
Tour guidesNo tipping
Valet ParkingNo tipping
Airport ServicesNo tipping
Car Services / UberNo tipping

Travel essentials

Helpful tools for planning your trip to South Korea

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Tipping questions in South Korea