South Korea is a nation where drinking just isn’t just a pastime—it’s deeply woven into the social fabric. Whether you’re doing business, bonding with friends, or just exploring the nightlife, drinking is an essential part of Korean culture. However before you take that first shot of soju, it’s important to understand the etiquette that governs drinking in Korea. This is 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 influence how you speak, act, and even drink. When 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 someone senior with one hand. Instead, use palms when pouring a drink for someone older or more senior—it shows respect.
Likewise, when accepting a drink from a senior, you must hold your glass with two hands 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 need to always keep an eye on 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.
For those who’re drinking with shut friends or youthful people, the rules may be relaxed, but following tradition is always appreciated.
3. Say “Geonbae!” Earlier than You Drink
“Geonbae” (건배) is the Korean word for “cheers!” You’ll hear it often at first of a round. It is 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 primary spherical could be at a barbecue restaurant with beer and soju. The second could possibly be at a bar or pub. The third? Possibly a karaoke room or a pojangmacha (avenue food tent). It’s common to go through multiple cha, so tempo your self early on. That said, turning down a round altogether may 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 mixture of soju and beer. It’s usually created by pouring a shot or of soju into a half-filled glass of beer. This mix is smooth, robust, and a go-to drink in many Korean bars. You would possibly even see artistic variations of SoMaek, where individuals use chopsticks to drop the soju shot into the beer glass like a mini bomb.
6. Table Manners and Bar Habits
At the bar, politeness still reigns. Don’t get too rowdy, especially 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 somebody is treating you. If you’re sharing food (common in Korean bars), use the communal utensils somewhat 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, comfort store drinks that promise aid, and plenty of sympathy. Drinking is a social affair, and so is recovering. Don’t be surprised in case your coworkers talk about hangovers with pride—it’s part of the shared experience.
Final Ideas
Drinking in Korea is an experience like no other. It’s stuffed with tradition, camaraderie, and unspoken guidelines that replicate the deep respect ingrained in Korean society. By learning and following the basic etiquette, you’ll not only enjoy the vibrant bar tradition but in addition earn the respect of your Korean peers. So the next time you’re handed a shot of soju, increase your glass with both palms, say “geonbae!”, and enjoy the moment—Korean style.
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