How To Be A Good Citizen On The Escalator

Ah the escalator. It looks like a simple enough piece of technology to use, but you'd be surprised at the sheer number of people here in Seoul (both foreign and local) that have no idea how to use an escalator without acting like a complete moron. So here as a service to everyone in Seoul I present: How To Be A Good Citizen On The Escalator.

Rule 1: Right Side Is For Standing
Here in Korea, the right side of the escalator is the side for those who wish to stand still. The left side is for normal humans who want to walk. That being said there are a lot of people who stand on the left hand side, or worse still the middle of the step. Again, the right side of the escalator is for standing, the left side is for walking. Additionally if you have luggage or a carriage and are not planning on moving, keep your belongings on the right side with you.
And a special note to couples, don't stand on the same step and talk to each other. Ladies, go up one step and turn so you can face your boyfriend, if you really can't stand to take your eyes off him for one minute. Don't block my path because you're in love.

Rule 2: You Are Not A Goalie (Or If You Are This Is Not A Goal)
This kind of ties in to Rule 1, but if you are walking on the left hand side, but doing so slowly, and someone tries to pass you on the right, let them. The escalator is not a game of Pong. You don't need to slide around on the step attempting to prevent those behind you from getting past. If someone is attempting to pass you, just let them. Just because you're not in a hurry doesn't mean others aren't. In an unrealated piece of information, this applies to driving cars as well.

Rule 3: Don't Flail Your Arms
This rule applies to any crowded area, but the escalator in particular is a place you want to avoid flailing your arms while moving. This seems logical, but I can't count the number of times I've been whacked in the midships with an umbrella or briefcase by some mook doing the mash potato while walking up the escalator.

Rule 4: When The Escalator Stops, You Don't
This seems pretty basic, but you'd be surprised by the number of people that get to the of the escalator and stop dead in their tracks. To these people let me explain something, people are attempting to get off the escalator behind you, and by you standing there you are causing a real hazardous situation.

I think if everyone can follow these simple rules everyone will have a much more enjoyable escalator experience.