How to dress appropriately for South Korea's temples and restaurants
Dress conservatively for temples with covered shoulders and knees, remove shoes before entering. For restaurants, smart casual works everywhere except high-end establishments which expect business attire. Pack layers since you'll be taking shoes on and off frequently.
- Temple dress code essentials. Cover shoulders, chest, and knees completely. Avoid tight-fitting clothes, short skirts, tank tops, or low necklines. Dark or neutral colors are preferred. Remove your hat and sunglasses before entering prayer halls.
- Temple shoe protocol. Remove shoes before entering any temple building. Wear slip-on shoes or sneakers that come off easily. Bring or wear clean socks - you'll be walking on temple floors in them. Some temples provide slippers.
- Restaurant dress guidelines. Smart casual works for 90% of restaurants. Clean jeans or pants with a nice shirt. For barbecue restaurants, avoid white clothes - smoke sticks to everything. For traditional floor-seating restaurants, wear pants you can sit cross-legged in comfortably.
- High-end restaurant requirements. Michelin-starred and hotel restaurants expect business attire. Men need collared shirts and dress pants. Women should wear dresses or blouses with dress pants/skirts. No sneakers, flip-flops, or overly casual wear.
- Shoe removal restaurants. Traditional Korean restaurants often require shoe removal. Look for shoes lined up at the entrance. Wear clean socks without holes. Slip-on shoes save time and embarrassment at these places.
- Can I wear shorts to temples in summer?
- No, shorts are not allowed in temple prayer halls regardless of season. Wear long pants or a long skirt that covers your knees completely.
- Do I need special clothes for temple stays?
- Temple stays provide simple robes for meditation and ceremonies. Bring conservative regular clothes for daily activities and modest sleepwear.
- What if I forget appropriate clothes?
- Most major temples sell simple coverings near the entrance. Convenience stores carry basic long-sleeved shirts and pants. Department stores have better selections but cost more.
- Are there dress codes for street food areas?
- No dress code for street food or casual restaurants. Wear comfortable clothes you don't mind getting food smells on.
- Do tourists get exceptions to temple dress codes?
- No exceptions. Temple dress codes apply to everyone regardless of nationality. Some temples may deny entry if you're dressed inappropriately.