"Already Expensive in Korea, Hope It Doesn't Spread..." Americans React to Tipping Culture Controversy

As the number of businesses demanding 'tips (service charges)' is gradually increasing in South Korea, sparking ongoing debates, even the United States, the origin country of tipping culture, is paying attention.

On the 7th (local time), the US Wall Street Journal (WSJ) published an online article titled "Tipping Culture Faces Strong Backlash in South Korea."

The media reported, "South Korea loves American-style cheeseburgers and bridal showers, but seems unwilling to accept tipping culture," adding, "When the Korean version of Uber, 'Kakao Mobility,' recently added a tip option, immediate backlash occurred."

Restaurants that accept tips are becoming more common in Korea as well. [Image source=Online Community]

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Earlier, Kakao Mobility had piloted a 'Thank You Tip' option on KakaoT Blue in July. KakaoT Blue is a franchise taxi service operated without ride refusals by drivers who have received separate training. Users can give an additional tip if they are satisfied with the service (i.e., by rating the driver 5 stars).

Kakao Mobility plans to maintain this option to promote coexistence with taxi drivers, but there was significant opposition among some consumers when it was introduced.

Meanwhile, around the same time, controversy arose over a 'tip box.' When a tip box was installed at a bakery in South Korea, netizens complained, saying, "What’s a tip box in a country where orders are made through kiosks?", "I hope this American culture doesn’t come in," and "They should rather put out a donation box." As the controversy grew, the restaurant eventually removed the tip box.

WSJ reported that the backlash against tipping culture exists not only among customers but also among self-employed business owners. One restaurant owner told the media, "If you order a lot of food, you end up paying more tips," expressing concern that "tips could actually reduce sales volume."

Among American readers who saw the article, there were also reactions hoping that tipping culture would not spread in South Korea.

One local netizen said, "For the past 3 to 5 years, I have thought that tipping might emerge in South Korea. Customers strongly oppose it, but companies seem to be gradually paving the way," adding, "If tipping appears in Korea’s unique street food stalls, convenience stores, hotels, and taxis, it will become much more inconvenient than now. Especially since daily necessities are already expensive in Korea."

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