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Drinking in Korea: The Ultimate Guide to Bar Etiquette

 

South Korea is a nation where drinking is just not 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 before you take that first shot of soju, it's necessary 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 Standing Matter

 

In Korean society, hierarchy is everything. Age and social status influence the way you speak, act, and even drink. If 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 palms when pouring a drink for somebody 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 need 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.

 

 

In case you’re drinking with close friends or youthful people, the rules may be relaxed, but following tradition is always appreciated.

 

 

3. Say "Geonbae!" Before You Drink

 

"Geonbae" (건배) is the Korean word for "cheers!" You’ll hear it often at the start 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. Pace Your self, However Don’t Skip Rounds

 

Koreans love their rounds—known as cha (차). The first spherical may be at a barbecue restaurant with beer and soju. The second could be at a bar or pub. The third? Perhaps a karaoke room or a pojangmacha (street food tent). It's normal 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 crucial popular combos in Korea is SoMaek—a mix of soju and beer. It’s usually created by pouring a shot or two of soju right into a half-filled glass of beer. This combine is smooth, sturdy, and a go-to drink in lots of Korean bars. You may even see artistic versions of SoMaek, where 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, 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 somewhat than your own chopsticks.

 

 

7. Don’t Overlook the Hangover Tradition

 

In Korea, hangover recovery is practically a ritual. You’ll discover hangover soups like haejangguk, convenience store drinks that promise relief, and loads 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 expertise like no other. It's 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 also earn the respect of your Korean peers. So the following time you're handed a shot of soju, increase your glass with both arms, say "geonbae!", and enjoy the moment—Korean style.

 

 

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