🥂 How to Drink in Korea – Part 1: Etiquette You Need to Know

If you’ve ever been invited to a Korean dinner party, company gathering (hoesik), or even a casual night out with Korean friends, you’ll soon realize that drinking in Korea follows its own set of rules. It’s not just about getting tipsy—it’s a way of showing respect, building relationships, and sharing unspoken moments.

Here’s your go-to guide for surviving (and impressing in) your first Korean drinking experience.

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1. 🍻 Always Refill Others' Glasses First

In Korean drinking culture, it’s considered impolite to let someone else’s glass stay empty. If you see your friend’s or colleague’s glass is low, offer to refill it—especially if they’re older or in a higher position than you.

✅ Tip: Never refill your own glass. That’s someone else’s job.

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2. 🥂 Keep Your Glass Lower When Toasting with Elders

Hierarchy plays a big role in Korean social interactions, and drinking is no exception. When toasting with someone older or of higher status, hold your glass slightly lower than theirs as a sign of respect.

It’s a small gesture that says a lot.

 

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3. 🙈 Turn Your Head When Drinking in Front of Elders

Koreans are taught to show modesty when drinking in front of seniors. That’s why you’ll often see people turn their heads slightly to the side when taking a sip, especially in formal settings or with older relatives or bosses.

Covering your mouth with one hand while drinking is also a polite touch.

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Soju Party

 

 

 

4. 🙅 Don’t Pour with One Hand

Pouring drinks in Korea is almost ceremonial. Use your right hand to hold the bottle, and support it with your left hand—either underneath your arm or gently touching your right forearm or chest. This two-handed pour shows intention and courtesy.

One-handed pours are a no-go, especially with elders.

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5. 🤚 Pour with Your Inner Wrist Facing Down

Here’s a detail most foreigners miss: when you tilt the bottle to pour, your inner wrist should face downward. Tilting with your inner wrist facing up (like flipping your palm) can come across as casual or even rude.

It’s subtle, but seasoned Koreans notice—and appreciate—this gesture.

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6. 🍶 Fill Glasses About 70% Full

Koreans rarely fill a glass to the top. Whether it’s soju, beer, or makgeolli, aim for about 70% full. A full glass can seem overwhelming and may pressure the other person to drink immediately.

Leave some space—it shows thoughtfulness.

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7. 🚫 It's Okay to Say “No” to Alcohol

In the past, refusing a drink in Korea was frowned upon. Today, especially among younger Koreans and in international circles, it’s totally acceptable to politely decline.

Try saying:
“Thanks, but I’ll skip this round.”
or
“I’m taking it easy tonight.”

Respecting personal limits is now seen as part of good drinking culture—not against it.

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🍸 Final Thoughts: Korean Drinking Is About Respect, Not Just Alcohol

If there’s one thing to remember: drinking in Korea is more about people than it is about booze. The customs may seem complex at first, but they’re really just ways of saying “I see you, I respect you, and I want to share this moment with you.”

Master these simple etiquette tips, and you’ll not only fit in—you’ll stand out.

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📘 Up Next in This Series:

Part 2 – What to Drink in Korea: From Soju to Makgeolli (and How to Enjoy Them Like a Local)

 

 

 

 

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