Knowing local customs and traditions is crucial to guarantee a seamless and fun trip overseas. Among the things that frequently baffles guests is tipping. While in certain nations tipping is anticipated at least somewhat, in others it is not at all. Two such places where tipping is not a main aspect of the culture are Korea and Taiwan.
Knowing the do’s and don’t’s of tipping will help you as a visitor in these nations stay out of embarrassing circumstances. Fortunately, new technologies make staying in touch while overseas simpler than ever. Using an eSIM for Korea and eSIM for Taiwan guarantees that you have mobile data, thereby enabling easy access to any tipping policies or, should you be unsure, assistance. Let us now explore the intricacies of tipping in Taiwan and Korea so you may boldly negotiate these countries.
Tipping Culture in Korea
General Tipping Practices in Korea
There is not a lot of tipping done in Korea. Locals do not do this often, hence most people will not expect it. Unlike many Western nations where tipping is a daily habit, Korea does not have a cultural engrained attitude about it. Whether you’re staying at a hotel, riding public transportation, or dining at a restaurant, tipping is usually not anticipated.
One thing to keep in mind is that a service charge—usually between 10% and 15%—may be included on your bill at many upscale hotels, restaurants, and some tourist sites. In these situations, gratuity is expected to be covered by the service charge hence tipping is not required.
Tipping in Specific Situations in Korea
Restaurants and Cafes: Most of them do not ask for tips. Should the service price already be included, you need not leave any more. Though it’s not needed, leaving little change (around 1,000-2,000 KRW) can be a kind gesture if you’re at a high-end or tourist-oriented restaurant and you think the service was first-rate.
Taxis: Tipping drivers of taxis is not traditional in Korea. Drivers not anticipate a tip; the fare is regarded as all-inclusive. One kind way to show gratitude is to round the fare to the closest thousand won.
Hotels & Accommodations: Most, even luxury, Korean hotels do not expect tips for housekeeping or bellboy services. On the other hand, if you get first-rate service, a small tip—between 1,000 and 5,000 KRW—for the housekeeping crew is a courtesy.
Tour Guides: Tipping is getting increasingly frequent whether you go a longer trip with a guide or a private one. Though it’s not necessary, a tip of between 10,000–20,000 KRW for a decent guide is appreciated.
When Not to Tip in Korea
Tipping government employees—such as police, airport personnel, or government officials—strictly discouraged and considered as improper.
There is no obligation to tip if you are dining in a restaurant and find a service charge noted on your bill. Gratu is supposed to be covered by the service charge.
Tipping Culture in Taiwan
General Tipping Practices in Taiwan
Like Korea, Taiwan does not have a broad custom of tipping. The nation has a similar approach whereby, if appropriate, service costs are supposed to cover gratuities and tipping is usually not anticipated.
You will find that tipping is just not part of the culture in many restaurants, cafes, and other service outlets. Though tiny tips for exceptional service might still be valued, leaving a tip is typically not required even if your service is exceptional.
Tipping in Specific Situations in Taiwan
Like in Korea, tipping is not usually done in Taiwan; this is especially true of specific situations at Taiwan’s restaurants and cafés. Should a service charge be included to your account, there is no tipping required. If you do, however, get first-rate service in a restaurant, you can leave a little amount of change—usually between 10 and 20 TWD.
Tipping cab drivers is not expected in Taiwan. Considered the ultimate fare is the price shown on the meter. Rounding up to the closest dollar is a good way to thank the driver, though, if he has been especially helpful or polite.
Tipping is not traditional at Taiwanese hotels. Though it is not obligatory, if you stay at a premium hotel or get first-rate treatment you can leave a little tip for the housekeeping crew (between 50 and 100 TWD).
Although it is not a regular habit for Taiwanese tour guides, tips are valued particularly on private tours. For first-rate service, consider a gratuity between 200 and 500 TWD (about $7 to $15).
When Not to Tip in Taiwan
Like in Korea, without tipping public sector workers—such as staff members of government-run services or public transportation operators—is unacceptable in Taiwan.
Unless you felt the service was first-rate, there is no need to offer an extra tip like in hotels or restaurants including a service charge on the bill.
Do’s and Don’ts of Tipping in Korea and Taiwan
Do’s
Respect Local Customs. Understanding and respecting this custom is crucial as tipping is not a prominent aspect of the culture in either Korea or Taiwan. Use local customs to help you prevent embarrassing yourself or others in this regard.
Although tipping is not usually requested, leaving small change in times of exceptional service will be a thoughtful gesture appreciated in both nations.
Carry Small dollars or Change. Make sure you have small dollars or change ready in case you wish to give a tip for first-rate service; big notes can complicate matters.
Don’ts
Don’t Tip Excessively: In both Taiwan and Korea, extremely generous tips could cause the receiver discomfort. Recall, too much tipping is not a usual habit and may even be considered as unacceptable.
Don’t Tip in Government-Run Locations: In neither nation is it appropriate to provide advice to public servants such as airport personnel or transportation officials.
Don’t Tip If a Service Charge Is Included: Should a service charge show up on your hotel or restaurant bill, there is no need to give a separate tip.
Conclusion
While it’s not necessary, little gestures of thanks for first-rate service might be a nice approach to show appreciation in Korea and Taiwan, where tipping is not a major part of the customs. Remember, even if you are visiting either nation, you should be aware of local norms since tipping could occasionally be viewed as awkward or improper.
Using an eSIM will enable you to remain connected in both countries, so guaranteeing that you have all the information you need, including on tipping policies, and so ensure a simpler experience while traveling. Having a connected mobile device and some understanding of the local norms can help you to enjoy your trip free from concern about making incorrect tips.
