Is it rude to not drink in Korea?

Declining food or drink, especially when offered by an elder, is a social faux pas in Korea. The thing is, Koreans know not everyone drinks, but they’re still going to offer you a glass of beer, soju, makgeolli, or whatever they’re drinking, to be polite. Ultimately, if you don’t want to drink it, you don’t have to.

Why can some Koreans not drink alcohol?

In Asian populations, it is due to an inherited deficiency in one of the enzymes involved in the breakdown of alcohol: aldehyde dehydrogenase. This type of reaction is very rare, but not unknown, in other ethnic groups. But there is more to this deficiency than just an embarrassing reddening of the face.

Is the drinking age in Korea in Korean age?

The legal drinking age in South Korea is 20 years old in Korean age. This is also the age that you have to be to enter most night clubs in Korea. What does this mean for you? The legal drinking age in Korea for foreigners is 19 years of age for most people.

Should soju be cold?

Soju is best served ice-cold, neat, as a small pour in a chilled traditional cup, over and over again, until the Samsung executive hosting you pulls out his corporate credit card. Soju is usually best when slammed briskly, especially if it’s Jinro Chamisul Classic, a brand distinguished by its oily burn.

What is drinking like in Korea?

Drinking in Korea is seen as a social activity where people bond over drinks. It’s a custom to down your first glass, be it a shot of soju or a glass of beer. But after that first drink, it’s ok to pace yourself after by taking small sips.

Why is drinking etiquette important in Korea?

Koreans believed drinking etiquette is important. When people become of age to drink alcohol, they are taught how to drink with other people by elders, because Korean ancestors thought that pouring and receiving drinks was important over the bowl.

Are there any unspoken Korean drinking rules for Pojangmacha?

While tourists may want to try the pojangmacha experience for themselves, there are unspoken Korean drinking rules that you should take note of, just so you don’t get disapproving glances from the ahjussi sitting at the next table.

Why do Koreans shake soju before drinking?

There’s a ritual that Koreans do prior to drinking soju – swirl and shake the bottle in a circular motion before opening it. This creates what they call a “tornado” inside the bottle. Some Koreans believe it helps soften the taste while others claim it helps distribute the sediment that has settled at the bottom.