South Korea is a nation where drinking shouldn’t be just a pastime—it’s deeply woven into the social fabric. Whether you’re 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 important to understand the etiquette that governs drinking in Korea. Here is your final 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. 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 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, it is best to 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 rude or lonely. Instead, it’s best to 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 close friends or younger individuals, the principles 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 firstly of a round. It’s customary to clink glasses with everybody on 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, But 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? Maybe a karaoke room or a pojangmacha (street food tent). It is common to go through a number of cha, so pace your self early on. That said, turning down a round altogether may be seen as antisocial, so attempt 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 mixture of soju and beer. It’s often 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 might even see creative versions of SoMaek, the place people use chopsticks to drop the soju shot into the beer glass like a mini bomb.

6. Table Manners and Bar Habits

At the bar, politeness still reigns. Don’t get too rowdy, especially 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 (widespread in Korean bars), use the communal utensils somewhat than your own chopsticks.

7. Don’t Neglect the Hangover Tradition

In Korea, hangover recovery is practically a ritual. You’ll discover hangover soups like haejangguk, comfort store drinks that promise aid, and plenty 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 Thoughts

Drinking in Korea is an expertise like no other. It is filled with tradition, camaraderie, and unspoken guidelines that replicate the deep respect ingrained in Korean society. By learning and following the essential etiquette, you’ll not only enjoy the vibrant bar culture but also earn the respect of your Korean peers. So the subsequent time you’re handed a shot of soju, raise your glass with each fingers, say “geonbae!”, and enjoy the moment—Korean style.

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