Taking a seat

The following is a tip on traditional Korean language and customs in response to a query from a Mr. James, who wrote to us from New York City:

Q. Mr. James:
I visit Seoul a few times a year on business. Koreans I meet there are very friendly, and they make sure I try various traditional Korean restaurants each time. Often, they take me to Korean restaurants where diners all sit on the floor. The first couple of times were O.K., but I find sitting down on the hard floor unbearably uncomfortable because I’m not used to it and I’m quite a bit larger than most Koreans. I enjoy Korean food but don’t want to sit on the floor. Is it rude to tell Korean hosts that I prefer to sit on a chair?

A. IHT-JAD:
Most Koreans find dining at low tables comfortable, and so they often recommend a visit to such restaurants to foreigners to experience the genuine Korean lifestyle. If you say you like sitting down, your Korean friends might continue to take you to such restaurants, even if they don’t want to. However, many Korean restaurants with Western-style tables and chairs exist, and it is perfectly all right to tell your Korean hosts of your preference.