Lessons From Korea #1

Taking Shoes Off Prior Entering a Room

Ever wonder why Korean take their shoes off before entering a home? Entering a house with shoes on is considered disrespectful, as it is synonymous with bringing in outside dirt and grime to one's residence. Modern Korean apartments often have built-in shoe cabinets at the Hyun-gwan, which doubles down as a storage area for other objects. It is a good rule of etiquette in most homes in Korea to take off your shoes before entering. You don't wear shoes in the house, because it's not hygienic after walking down the street, and Koreans, like many other Asian people, sleep, study, eat, and spend most of their time on the floor. Keep the germs outside. Koreans and Westerners alike are expected to remove their shoes prior to entering someone's home regardless of the person's status, age, or personal relationship. Some restaurants that offer classic floor-sitting dining will also require patrons to remove their shoes before entering the establishment. Usually, if you are asked to remove your shoes, there will be a pair of slippers to put on.

In fact, a University of Arizona study showed that there are more than 421,000 bacteria on the soles of our shoes, including strains that can cause diarrhea, meningitis, and pneumonia. Some Koreans are even resistant to regular household cleaning measures like vacuuming and mopping.

Interesting, eh? And I take my shoes off when I enter my home and wondered why? Now I know! Here is a video that talks about the respect of taking one’s shoes off before entering.