Most Koreans now wear Western shoes, but keep them loosely laced so they're easily slipped off and on.

An increasing number of restaurants, particularly those which cater to a younger clientele, have sections with western style tables and chairs. Patrons are permitted to wear their shoes in these sections. Some have entirely eliminated the traditional low floor-sitting tables. But many still offer traditional seating areas like the tiny, completely un-westernized restaurant pictured here -- a raised floor with short tables.

The patron removes his shoes and leaves them on the lower floor inside the door, on shelves, or in small lockers. Then he sits cross-legged (women often sit on their legs) at one of the low tables. It's considered rude to extend one's legs, and it's unacceptable to wear shoes onto the sitting area.