Soju 한잔할래요? Welcome to Korea's most iconic social ritual!
Explore Korean drinking culture from soju to somaek, and learn unspoken social rules to survive (and enjoy!) your next 회식 or 술자리 in Korea.
What’s the big deal with Soju?
If you’ve ever walked through a 편의점 (convenience store) in Korea, you definitely noticed those green bottles. Yep, that’s soju (소주)—the undisputed king of Korean alcohol.
It’s cheap, it’s everywhere, and it’s a cultural symbol as much as it is a drink.
Taste-wise? It’s kinda like watered-down vodka, but smoother and a little sweet.
Koreans drink it straight, usually chilled, and it’s often paired with grilled meats like samgyeopsal (삼겹살). Yum.
The Legendary Somaek (소맥)
Okay, so somaek = 소주 + 맥주 (beer). Simple math, but maximum chaos (in the best way).
Somaek is like the K-pop remix of drinks—it hits harder, tastes smoother, and gets the party started fast.
👯♀️ Pro tip: There's even a ritual to mixing it. People get creative with chopsticks, layered pours, or flicking the beer glass for some flair.
It’s lowkey like a bar magic show.
Must-Know Social Rules (술자리 예절)
Here’s where it gets super K-culture—drinking in Korea isn’t just about the booze, it’s about bonding.
There are rules, and ignoring them might earn you some side-eyes. 👀
🥂 1. Always pour for others first
In Korea, pouring your own drink is a big no-no, especially if you’re with elders or coworkers.
Use two hands to pour, and the person receiving it should hold their glass with two hands too.
🙇♀️ 2. Turn your head when drinking with elders
Respect is everything. If you’re drinking with someone older, turn your head slightly away and cover your mouth as you sip.
It’s a small gesture but it says a lot.
🕺 3. Rounds. Are. Endless.
Koreans usually drink in rounds (1차, 2차, 3차...), and each round might be a different place:
first dinner, then bar, then karaoke, and maybe even a late-night soup place.
So pace yourself—you’re not in a sprint, this is a cultural marathon.
Why It’s More Than Just Drinking
Korean drinking culture is about connection. Whether it’s bonding with your 팀장님 (team leader) at 회식, or opening up with new friends, 술자리 is where people let their guard down.
Even if you don’t drink much (or at all), just joining is part of the experience.
And yep—non-drinkers are respected too. Just say politely:
“저는 술을 잘 못해요.” (I’m not good with alcohol.)
Nobody’s gonna force you—especially these days. Korea’s getting more chill.
Final Tips Before Your First Korean 술자리
- Eat before drinking. Or at least munch on 안주 (drinking snacks).
- Learn the classic “짠!” toast.
- Don’t challenge a Korean ajusshi to a drinking contest. Trust me.
- Keep it respectful but have fun. This is your ticket to real Korean connection.
✨ Your Turn!
Have you ever tried soju or joined a Korean 술자리? Share your story in the comments!
Or tag a friend who needs to read this before visiting Korea 🇰🇷💚