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Drinking in Korea: The Ultimate Guide to Bar Etiquette

 

South Korea is a nation the place drinking is just not 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 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 Standing Matter

 

In Korean society, hierarchy is everything. Age and social standing affect 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 fingers when pouring a drink for someone older or more senior—it shows respect.

 

 

Likewise, when accepting a drink from a senior, you should hold your glass with arms 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.

 

 

If you happen to’re drinking with close friends or younger individuals, 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 typically initially 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. Tempo Your self, However Don’t Skip Rounds

 

Koreans love their rounds—known as cha (차). The primary spherical is perhaps 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 pace yourself early on. That said, turning down a spherical altogether could also 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 most popular combos in Korea is SoMaek—a mix of soju and beer. It’s often created by pouring a shot or two of soju right into a half-filled glass of beer. This combine is smooth, strong, and a go-to drink in many Korean bars. You might 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

 

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. In case you’re sharing food (widespread in Korean bars), use the communal utensils rather than your own chopsticks.

 

 

7. Don’t Overlook the Hangover Culture

 

In Korea, hangover recovery is practically a ritual. You’ll discover hangover soups like haejangguk, convenience store drinks that promise reduction, and loads of sympathy. Drinking is a social affair, and so is recovering. Don't 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 expertise like no other. It is stuffed with tradition, camaraderie, and unspoken guidelines that mirror the deep respect ingrained in Korean society. By learning and following the fundamental etiquette, you’ll not only enjoy the colourful bar tradition but also earn the respect of your Korean peers. So the following time you are handed a shot of soju, elevate your glass with both palms, say "geonbae!", and enjoy the moment—Korean style.

 

 

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