Public Transport Etiquette in Korea: Understanding Yellow and Pink Seats

4월 24, 2026

South Korea’s subways and buses are world-renowned for being clean and safe. However, there is an "unwritten rule" that Koreans strictly follow: specific seating etiquette for the "transportation vulnerable" (the elderly, pregnant women, and the disabled).

To ensure you don't face an awkward situation by accidentally sitting in a restricted seat, here is a detailed guide to South Korea's public transport seating system.

Seats on Korean public transport are clearly color-coded based on who should use them. Knowing this beforehand will help you respect local culture and have a much smoother journey.

1. Yellow Seats (Priority Seats): Reserved for Seniors and the Vulnerable

At both ends of every subway car and at the front of most buses, you will see a row of Yellow Seats. These are dedicated specifically for the elderly, people with disabilities, the injured, and those with limited mobility.

The "Always Empty" Culture: This is the most important point. In Korea, it is standard practice to keep these seats empty even if the train is crowded and no one is currently using them.
Why stay empty?: You might think, "I'll just sit here and move if an elderly person comes." However, Koreans believe the highest form of respect is to keep the seat open at all times so that a vulnerable person can sit down immediately without feeling like they are "taking" a seat from someone else.
A Word of Caution: If you sit here because you are exhausted, be prepared to stand up immediately the moment an elderly person enters the area.

2. Pink Seats (Pregnant Women Only): For Moms-to-Be

In the center of subway cars, you will see a seat with a Pink cover and a matching pink sticker on the floor. This seat is reserved exclusively for pregnant women.

Supporting Early Pregnancy: The early stages of pregnancy are often the most difficult and physically demanding, even though it may not be visible. To support them, Koreans have a 24-hour "Keep the Seat Empty" campaign.
Pregnancy Badges: Many pregnant women in Korea carry a pink circular badge on their bags that says "Pregnant Woman First." If you see someone with this badge, please kindly offer them your seat, even if you are in a general seating area.

3. Tips for Seating on Buses

Buses tend to be bumpier than subways, increasing the risk of accidents.

Give up front seats: Seats near the front of the bus often have yellow or pink seat covers. It is best to leave these for the elderly or pregnant women, as those with limited mobility prefer seats near the door for an easier exit.
Safety First: Korean buses can move quite fast and stop suddenly. If no seats are available, make sure to hold onto the handrails tightly.

💡 Essential Pro-Tips for Public Transport

The Backpack Etiquette: On crowded subways or buses, wear your backpack on your front or place it between your feet. A bag worn on your back can unintentionally hit or push people sitting in the priority seats.
Keep Calls Short or Use Texting: Koreans consider it rude to talk loudly on the phone in public spaces. If you receive a call, it is polite to say, "I'm on the subway, I'll call you back," and hang up quickly.
How to Offer a Seat: If you want to offer your seat, make a slight nod and say, "Yeogi an-jeuseyo" (Please sit here).
It’s Okay if They Refuse: Sometimes an elderly person might decline, saying, "I'm getting off soon, so I'm fine." If that happens, don't be embarrassed! Just smile and sit back down; your kindness was still appreciated.

Korean public transport culture is about more than just rules; it’s about "Jeong" (connection and affection) and putting those who are more vulnerable first. That pink seat you leave empty might be the biggest relief of someone’s day.

Tags: #KoreaTravel #SubwayEtiquette #PrioritySeating #PinkSeat #KoreanCulture #PublicTransport #TravelTips #VisitKorea2026 #SeoulSubway #KoreaTravelTips #PublicTransportEtiquette

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