Drinking in Korea: The Ultimate Guide to Bar Etiquette

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Last Updated, Mar 30, 2025, 9:48 PM

South Korea is a nation the place drinking will not be just a pastime—it’s deeply woven into the social fabric. Whether or not you are 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. This is 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 status influence the way you speak, act, and even drink. Whenever 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 hands when pouring a drink for someone older or more senior—it shows respect.

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

If you happen to’re drinking with shut friends or youthful people, the foundations may 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 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, 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 could be at a bar or pub. The third? Possibly a karaoke room or a pojangmacha (avenue food tent). It’s common to go through multiple cha, so pace your self early on. That said, turning down a spherical altogether may 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 often created by pouring a shot or of soju right into a half-filled glass of beer. This mix is smooth, strong, 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 Conduct

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 someone is treating you. In the event you’re sharing food (widespread in Korean bars), use the communal utensils relatively 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. Don’t be shocked if 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 guidelines that reflect the deep respect ingrained in Korean society. By learning and following the fundamental etiquette, you’ll not only enjoy the vibrant bar culture but also earn the respect of your Korean peers. So the next time you are handed a shot of soju, increase your glass with both hands, say “geonbae!”, and enjoy the moment—Korean style.

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