South Korea is a nation where drinking is not just a pastime—it’s deeply woven into the social fabric. Whether you’re doing enterprise, bonding with friends, or just exploring the nightlife, drinking is an essential part of Korean culture. But earlier than you take that first shot of soju, it’s essential to understand the etiquette that governs drinking in Korea. Here 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 standing 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 someone senior with one hand. Instead, use arms when pouring a drink for somebody older or more senior—it shows respect.
Likewise, when accepting a drink from a senior, it is best to hold your glass with 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 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 case you’re drinking with close friends or younger folks, the foundations 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 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, However Don’t Skip Rounds
Koreans love their rounds—known as cha (차). The first spherical could be at a barbecue restaurant with beer and soju. The second could be at a bar or pub. The third? Perhaps a karaoke room or a pojangmacha (street food tent). It’s normal to go through multiple cha, so tempo your self early on. That said, turning down a round altogether may be seen as delinquent, so attempt 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 right into a half-filled glass of beer. This combine is smooth, strong, and a go-to drink in lots of Korean bars. You may even see artistic versions of SoMaek, the place folks 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 somebody is treating you. When you’re sharing food (common in Korean bars), use the communal utensils rather than your own chopsticks.
7. Don’t Neglect the Hangover Culture
In Korea, hangover recovery is practically a ritual. You’ll find hangover soups like haejangguk, comfort store drinks that promise aid, and loads of sympathy. Drinking is a social affair, and so is recovering. Do not be stunned in case 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 full of tradition, camaraderie, and unspoken rules that mirror the deep respect ingrained in Korean society. By learning and following the basic etiquette, you’ll not only enjoy the colourful bar tradition but in addition earn the respect of your Korean peers. So the following time you’re handed a shot of soju, increase your glass with both fingers, say “geonbae!”, and enjoy the moment—Korean style.
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