Key Principles
- Respect others — show respect to elders and those around you.
- Consideration — think of others and be mindful.
- Harmony — enjoy together and create good memories.
Korea Food Guide · Guide 28
Drinking Etiquette
Respect, harmony and good manners make every drink better — the essential rules of Korean drinking etiquette.
01 — Overview
Quick Summary
Koreans value harmony and respect. Following basic drinking etiquette shows good manners and helps you enjoy the experience while building good relationships.
Key takeaways
- Pour for others first, never for yourself.
- Use both hands when pouring or receiving a drink.
- Toast with “건배!” (Geonbae!) and finish your drink.
- Turn your head slightly to the side when drinking with elders.
02 — Full Guide
The Complete Guide
Pouring & Receiving Drinks
- It is polite to pour for others first, especially for elders.
- Use both hands when pouring.
- Hold the glass with both hands when someone pours for you.
- A slight bow of the head shows extra respect.
Don't Pour for Yourself
- It's considered impolite to pour your own drink.
- Wait for someone else to pour for you.
Turn Your Head
- Turn your head slightly to the side when taking a drink with elders.
- This shows respect and modesty.
Toasting (Geonbae!)
- Say “건배!” (Geonbae!) to cheers before drinking.
- Make eye contact and smile.
Drink Up & Keep It Neat
- When toasting with someone, it's polite to finish your drink.
- Keep your glass empty before the next round.
- Don't make noise or raise your voice.
- Keep your phone on silent and stay focused on the moment.
Thank Your Host
- Thank your host after the meal or drinks.
- A simple “감사합니다” (Gamsahamnida) means a lot.
Drinking Games (For Fun)
Drinking games are common at gatherings — join if you're comfortable.
- Truth or Dare (진실 or 거짓) — answer truthfully or take a dare
- I Love You Game (사랑해 게임) — pass the drink and say “사랑해!”
- Rock, Paper, Scissors (가위바위보) — loser drinks
- APT / song games — drink when your number comes up or for each mistake
Things to Avoid
- Drinking too fast — pace yourself.
- Forgetting to greet — say hello when joining and goodbye when leaving.
- Refusing drinks rudely — politely decline with a reason.
- Getting too loud or touchy — keep it friendly and respectful.
- Taking photos too much — focus on the moment, not your camera.
Useful Korean Expressions & Saying Goodbye
It's okay to leave a little earlier than the host: thank the host, wait for the right timing, say goodbye to others, then leave quietly and politely.
- 건배! (Geonbae!) — Cheers!
- 감사합니다 (Gamsahamnida) — Thank you.
- 한 잔 더? (Han jan deo?) — One more drink?
- 괜찮아요 (Gwaenchanayo) — I'm okay.
- 미안해요 (Mianhaeyo) — I'm sorry.
- 천천히 마실게요 (Cheoncheonhi masilgeyo) — I'll drink slowly.
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