Manners and etiquette are deeply rooted in Korean Culture. In any culture, there are going to be rules that embody traditions and values that you should follow. Good table manners are essential to Korean culture and bring harmony to the meal and the people you share it with. If you're visiting South Korea or dining with a Korean friend, it's essential to know the basics of Korean dining etiquette to ensure you are respectful and honoring the traditions of the Korean people. When you're ready to dig into a delicious Korean feast, here are some important rules to keep in mind.
The Oldest Eats First – Elders are highly respected in Korean culture. When eating at a dinner table with multiple people, it's common to let the oldest at the table start eating first before you are good to dig in. It might seem strange but be sure to know who is the oldest at the table.
Keep Pace – You want to do your best to eat at the same pace as everyone at the table. Eating fast can seem like you are trying to rush through dinner, and it might be interpreted as bad manners.
Sharing is Common – They say sharing is caring, and with Korean meals and dining in the Korean culture, many of the meals are served in one pot or dish to share at the table. When eating out, everyone at the dining table chooses their preferred dish, and its normal to share each dish.
Know Proper Chopstick Etiquette – It's important to understand how to use your chopsticks to avoid doing anything that might be taken as rude or offensive. With chopsticks, the biggest rule to understand is to never stick your chopsticks directly into your food and leave them there. It resembles a Korean funeral ceremony practice and is not something that is accepted at mealtime. Set your chopsticks at the top of the bowl or on the ceramic dish to avoid the chopsticks directly touching the table.
Say You Will Eat Well – Before you begin eating, it is customary for you to say "Jal-mukkes-seub-nida," which means that you will eat well. It's a way to acknowledge that you appreciate the meal you are about to eat and show respect to the person who cooked the meal.
Pass With Both Hands – If you need to pass any dish, be sure to use both hands to show respect.
Ensure Your Neighbor has a Full Glass – Pour drinks for others before your fill your glass. If you can, let someone else fill up your glass. Using both hands is a sign of respect for pouring drinks as well, whether you are the one during the pouring or holding the glass as another person pours for you.
Use Clean Spoons for Side Dishes – In Korea, when eating with others, you will be served side dishes and are more than likely going to share with the rest of the table. Use a clean spoon to serve side dishes, and avoid using a dirty spoon to avoid spreading germs.
Follow these basic rules for dining etiquette, and you'll be ready to eat out in Korea or with your Korean friends. Be sure to always not know what those are doing around you and be courteous and respectful as you eat.