How To....
Drinking Etiquette In Korea
by Deirdre Madden
The drinking rules are almost as complicated as the eating rules in Korea:
1. If offered an empty glass, take it in both hands, let them pour your rink,
then drain the glass and return it. You should then fill the glass for the person who filled your glass. Use two hands when pouring. Like eating from the
same dish, sharing a glass is a symbol of close relationships.
2. The juniors must keep the seniors glass filled.
3. Accept from a senior with both hands on your glass, and consume the drink
with your face turned away from them.
4. Don’t pour your own drink! And don’t let anyone else pour for themselves,
either.
5. When pouring for someone else, use two hands on the bottle, or have your
left hand touching your right arm or elbow. You should also cup the bottle’s label in your palm.
6. A traditional toast is gom bae, which means cheers. Raise your glass in your right hand with your left hand touching your right arm or elbow, clink
glasses and drink.
7. Draining your glass is a cue to your host to refill your drink.
So, now you won’t embarrass yourself, accept those dinner offers and experience
the warmth of Korean hospitality. Just watch out for the soju.