Public Urination and Shirtless Running... Series of Inappropriate Behaviors by Foreign Tourists Around Gyeongbokgung Palace

"Respect Cultural Heritage and Observe Etiquette"
Cases of Fines Imposed for Relieving Oneself on Palace Walls

Images of a shirtless run in Gwanghwamun and a yoga pose leaning against a stone wall have spread widely on social media. Photo by Professor Seokyungduk on Facebook

Recently, concerns have been raised over the inappropriate behavior of some foreign tourists, such as a Chinese tourist relieving himself beneath the stone wall of Gyeongbokgung Palace and a Vietnamese woman practicing yoga in public.

On November 19, Seo Kyungduk, a professor at Sungshin Women's University, posted on his social media account, stating, "(I received a new report) An image has surfaced on social media showing a foreigner running shirtless in front of Gwanghwamun." He added, "Of course, anyone can go for a run, but basic etiquette in public spaces must be observed."

He further emphasized, "Particularly around cultural heritage sites that attract many tourists, people should be even more mindful. This kind of behavior is clearly inappropriate."

Incidents of inconsiderate behavior by foreign tourists have been rapidly increasing. On November 10, a man believed to be Chinese was fined for relieving himself at the north gate of Gyeongbokgung Palace. In October last year, a Vietnamese tourist posted a video on TikTok of herself doing yoga in tight leggings while leaning against the stone wall of Gwanghwamun.

Professor Seo stated, "It is positive that the Korean Wave has spread globally and more foreigners are visiting Korea, but they must know how to respect Korea's cultural heritage and observe at least the minimum standards of courtesy." He also pointed out, "In order to prevent such incidents from recurring, relevant government departments and local authorities must pay close attention and come up with effective measures."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.