South Korea is a nation the place drinking is not just a pastime—it’s deeply woven into the social fabric. Whether or not you’re 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 essential 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 Status Matter

In Korean society, hierarchy is everything. Age and social standing influence how you speak, act, and even drink. Once 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 two arms when pouring a drink for someone older or more senior—it shows respect.

Likewise, when accepting a drink from a senior, it is best to hold your glass with two 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 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.

If you happen to’re drinking with shut friends or youthful people, the foundations could also be relaxed, however following tradition is always appreciated.

3. Say “Geonbae!” Before You Drink

“Geonbae” (건배) is the Korean word for “cheers!” You’ll hear it typically in the beginning of a round. It’s customary to clink glasses with everybody 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 first round could be at a barbecue restaurant with beer and soju. The second could possibly be at a bar or pub. The third? Maybe 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 spherical altogether could also 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 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 combine is smooth, robust, and a go-to drink in lots of Korean bars. You may even see artistic versions of SoMaek, where 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. For those who’re sharing food (common in Korean bars), use the communal utensils relatively 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 aid, and plenty of sympathy. Drinking is a social affair, and so is recovering. Do not be shocked if 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’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 tradition but in addition earn the respect of your Korean peers. So the subsequent time you’re handed a shot of soju, raise your glass with both fingers, say “geonbae!”, and enjoy the moment—Korean style.

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