South Korea is a nation the place drinking is not just a pastime—it’s deeply woven into the social fabric. Whether you are doing business, bonding with friends, or simply exploring the nightlife, drinking is an essential part of Korean culture. But before you take that first shot of soju, it’s vital to understand the etiquette that governs drinking in Korea. Here’s your ultimate guide to navigating the bar scene with respect and style.
1. Respect Hierarchy: Age and Status Matter
In Korean society, hierarchy is everything. Age and social status affect how you speak, act, and even drink. Whenever you’re out drinking with Koreans, always be aware of who’s older or holds a higher position. You don’t pour your own drink and definitely don’t pour for somebody senior with one hand. Instead, use two fingers when pouring a drink for somebody older or more senior—it shows respect.
Likewise, when accepting a drink from a senior, you need to hold your glass with two fingers and turn your face slightly away as you drink. This small gesture demonstrates humility and politeness.
2. Don’t Pour Your Own Drink
Self-pouring is a big no-no in Korean drinking culture. It’s seen as rude or lonely. Instead, you should always keep an eye in your companions’ glasses and pour them a drink when it’s empty. They’ll likely return the favor. This mutual pouring ritual strengthens social bonds and keeps the group dynamic going strong.
In the event you’re drinking with shut friends or youthful folks, the rules could also be relaxed, however following tradition is always appreciated.
3. Say “Geonbae!” Before You Drink
“Geonbae” (건배) is the Korean word for “cheers!” You’ll hear it usually at the start of a round. It’s customary to clink glasses with everyone at the table and take a sip—or a full shot, depending on the group’s vibe. Make eye contact when clinking glasses; it shows confidence and connection.
4. Pace Yourself, But Don’t Skip Rounds
Koreans love their rounds—known as cha (차). The first spherical is likely to be at a barbecue restaurant with beer and soju. The second could possibly be at a bar or pub. The third? Perhaps a karaoke room or a pojangmacha (road food tent). It is common to go through multiple cha, so pace yourself early on. That said, turning down a spherical altogether could also be seen as delinquent, so try to participate even with a small drink or a soft drink.
5. The Power Duo: Soju and Beer (SoMaek)
One of the vital popular combos in Korea is SoMaek—a mix of soju and beer. It’s often created by pouring a shot or of soju into a half-filled glass of beer. This mix is smooth, sturdy, and a go-to drink in lots of Korean bars. You might even see artistic versions of SoMaek, where individuals use chopsticks to drop the soju shot into the beer glass like a mini bomb.
6. Table Manners and Bar Conduct
On the bar, politeness still reigns. Don’t get too rowdy, particularly in a more traditional setting. Keep your voice to a social level, and always show gratitude—say “thank you” (감사합니다) to the server and your host if someone is treating you. In case you’re sharing food (common in Korean bars), use the communal utensils slightly than your own chopsticks.
7. Don’t Neglect the Hangover Tradition
In Korea, hangover recovery is practically a ritual. You’ll find hangover soups like haejangguk, convenience store drinks that promise relief, and plenty of sympathy. Drinking is a social affair, and so is recovering. Don’t be stunned if your coworkers talk about hangovers with pride—it’s part of the shared experience.
Final Thoughts
Drinking in Korea is an experience like no other. It’s stuffed with tradition, camaraderie, and unspoken rules that reflect the deep respect ingrained in Korean society. By learning and following the fundamental etiquette, you’ll not only enjoy the vibrant bar culture but also earn the respect of your Korean peers. So the subsequent time you are handed a shot of soju, raise your glass with both palms, say “geonbae!”, and enjoy the moment—Korean style.
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