When it comes to paying for any services nowadays - like haircuts, taxis, restaurants - the tip option is usually embedded already. Why do Americans feel so obligated to tip? Should it remain a social norm? Restaurant servers, and services of that nature, should be tipped for their labor, and the tip can fluctuate based on the customer’s satisfaction. But, ultimately, it is a decision based on the customer’s judgment.

Kat Busch, a service industry worker, posted a TikTok video explaining how she deals with “non-tippers.” She confronts them by saying “I see you didn’t leave a tip,” and proceeds to ask what she can do to improve her service. Some viewers in the comments agreed and found the server’s feelings relatable, while others said they would get fired for such a disrespectful action.

Although service workers deserve tips for their arduous jobs, they should not pressure or coerce customers into receiving one. Yuna Shin, a senior at Yorba Linda High School, says she tips “at least a little bit” for “restaurants and food delivery,” but other places asking for tips “make [her] uncomfortable especially when the person is in front of [her].” Especially when the workers are interacting with the customers directly and providing a service, they should receive a tip based on the quality of their work. However, the workers should not pester customers for such a trivial matter. Yuna also mentions that they should give them the benefit of the doubt: “What if they can’t afford to tip?”

When the tip option is already selected, especially at a cafe where the only service is the drink ordered, it feels deceptive and sneaky. Personally, I feel burdened at times. But, I simply click ‘no tip’ and move on. Although I understand that it could be frustrating for the employees, it seems illogical that they expect and almost demand tips.

In South Korea, like much of the world, tip culture is not prevalent, with the exception of golf course caddies or servers at high-end restaurants. However, lately, there has been a surge in taxis and local restaurants. Many Koreans have expressed their dislike, with over 70% opposing tipping taxi drivers in an Opensurvey poll. Joseph Kim, a senior at Cypress High School, also mentions that excessive tipping “shifts the burden of paying employees onto the consumer.” Employees should not rely on and enforce tipping to generate a main component of their income. Tips should be socially accepted as optional!

<Kaylyn Kim Sunny Hills High School 12th Grade>