South Korea is a nation the place drinking isn’t just a pastime—it’s deeply woven into the social fabric. Whether or not you are doing enterprise, bonding with friends, or just exploring the nightlife, drinking is an essential part of Korean culture. However earlier than you take that first shot of soju, it’s necessary 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 influence how you speak, act, and even drink. While 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 fingers when pouring a drink for somebody older or more senior—it shows respect.
Likewise, when accepting a drink from a senior, you must hold your glass with palms 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 impolite or lonely. Instead, you must 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.
When you’re drinking with shut friends or younger people, the foundations may be relaxed, however 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 first of a round. It’s customary to clink glasses with everybody on 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 Your self, But Don’t Skip Rounds
Koreans love their rounds—known as cha (차). The first round could be at a barbecue restaurant with beer and soju. The second may very well be at a bar or pub. The third? Possibly a karaoke room or a pojangmacha (street food tent). It’s normal to go through a number of cha, so tempo yourself early on. That said, turning down a spherical altogether may be seen as antisocial, so try to participate even with a small drink or a soft drink.
5. The Power Duo: Soju and Beer (SoMaek)
One of the most popular combos in Korea is SoMaek—a mixture of soju and beer. It’s usually created by pouring a shot or two of soju into a half-filled glass of beer. This combine is smooth, robust, and a go-to drink in many Korean bars. You would possibly 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 Habits
At 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. In the event you’re sharing food (widespread 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 relief, and loads of sympathy. Drinking is a social affair, and so is recovering. Do not be shocked in case your coworkers talk about hangovers with pride—it’s part of the shared experience.
Final Ideas
Drinking in Korea is an expertise like no other. It is full of tradition, camaraderie, and unspoken guidelines that reflect the deep respect ingrained in Korean society. By learning and following the basic etiquette, you’ll not only enjoy the colourful bar culture but additionally earn the respect of your Korean peers. So the next time you’re handed a shot of soju, raise your glass with both hands, say “geonbae!”, and enjoy the moment—Korean style.
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