Korean restaurants run less on staff waiting on you and more on a system of call bells, self-serve corners, banchan, and easy add-on orders. Learn it once and you're set anywhere.
Basic flow
- Entry: at sit-down places (BBQ, set menus) staff seat you; at snack/gukbap spots you take any open seat. Check entrance signs for self/prepaid/kiosk
- Ordering: use the call bell or say 'jeogiyo'. Avoid shouting or big gestures
- Eating: use the small plate, share banchan. Don't stick chopsticks upright or stir dishes
- Paying: say 'gyesanhalgeyo'; counter payment is common and there's no tipping
Banchan and add-ons
Banchan (side dishes) are usually free and refillable. Order more rice or noodles with 'chuga-yo', so don't over-order at the start.
Full dining-etiquette guide: call bells, banchan, solo dining, paying