South Korea is a nation where drinking isn’t just a pastime—it’s deeply woven into the social fabric. Whether you’re doing enterprise, bonding with friends, or simply 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 Standing Matter
In Korean society, hierarchy is everything. Age and social status influence the way 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 hands 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 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 impolite or lonely. Instead, you should 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 youthful individuals, 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 initially 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 primary round is perhaps at a barbecue restaurant with beer and soju. The second might be at a bar or pub. The third? Possibly a karaoke room or a pojangmacha (avenue food tent). It’s normal to go through a number of cha, so pace 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 crucial popular combos in Korea is SoMaek—a mixture of soju and beer. It’s often 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 lots of Korean bars. You would possibly even see creative variations of SoMaek, the place individuals use chopsticks to drop the soju shot into the beer glass like a mini bomb.
6. Table Manners and Bar Conduct
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 someone is treating you. If you’re sharing food (frequent in Korean bars), use the communal utensils somewhat than your own chopsticks.
7. Don’t Forget the Hangover Culture
In Korea, hangover recovery is practically a ritual. You’ll find hangover soups like haejangguk, comfort store drinks that promise reduction, and loads of sympathy. Drinking is a social affair, and so is recovering. Do not be surprised if 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’s stuffed with tradition, camaraderie, and unspoken guidelines that mirror the deep respect ingrained in Korean society. By learning and following the essential etiquette, you’ll not only enjoy the vibrant bar culture but additionally earn the respect of your Korean peers. So the subsequent time you are handed a shot of soju, increase your glass with each arms, say “geonbae!”, and enjoy the moment—Korean style.
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