Drinking in Korea: The Ultimate Guide to Bar Etiquette

South Korea is a nation where drinking just isn’t just a pastime—it’s deeply woven into the social fabric. Whether or not you are doing business, bonding with friends, or simply 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’s your final 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. 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 somebody senior with one hand. Instead, use palms when pouring a drink for someone 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 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 the event you’re drinking with close friends or younger folks, the rules could also 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 in the beginning 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 Yourself, But Don’t Skip Rounds

Koreans love their rounds—known as cha (차). The primary round is likely to be at a barbecue restaurant with beer and soju. The second might be at a bar or pub. The third? Maybe a karaoke room or a pojangmacha (road food tent). It is common to go through a number of cha, so tempo your self early on. That said, turning down a round altogether may be seen as delinquent, so try to participate even with a small drink or a soft drink.

5. The Power Duo: Soju and Beer (SoMaek)

One of the popular combos in Korea is SoMaek—a mix of soju and beer. It’s usually created by pouring a shot or of soju into a half-filled glass of beer. This mix is smooth, sturdy, and a go-to drink in many 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 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 find hangover soups like haejangguk, convenience store drinks that promise relief, 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 experience like no other. It is stuffed with tradition, camaraderie, and unspoken rules that mirror the deep respect ingrained in Korean society. By learning and following the fundamental 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, elevate your glass with both palms, say “geonbae!”, and enjoy the moment—Korean style.

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