South Korea is a nation where drinking will not be just a pastime—it’s deeply woven into the social fabric. Whether or not you’re doing business, 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 necessary to understand the etiquette that governs drinking in Korea. This is 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 standing influence the way 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 someone senior with one hand. Instead, use two arms when pouring a drink for somebody older or more senior—it shows respect.

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

Should you’re drinking with shut friends or younger folks, the principles 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 firstly 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. Tempo Your self, However Don’t Skip Rounds

Koreans love their rounds—known as cha (차). The first round might 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 (street food tent). It’s common to go through a number of cha, so pace 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)

Probably the most popular combos in Korea is SoMaek—a mix of soju and beer. It’s often created by pouring a shot or of soju right into a half-filled glass of beer. This combine is smooth, robust, and a go-to drink in lots of Korean bars. You might 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 Behavior

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. 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 find hangover soups like haejangguk, convenience store drinks that promise reduction, and plenty of sympathy. Drinking is a social affair, and so is recovering. Do not be surprised 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 full of tradition, camaraderie, and unspoken rules that replicate the deep respect ingrained in Korean society. By learning and following the fundamental etiquette, you’ll not only enjoy the colourful bar tradition but additionally earn the respect of your Korean peers. So the subsequent 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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