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Master the Meal: 10 Korean Dining Rules You Must Know

· 3 min read
Elena Vance
Elena Vance
Editor-in-Chief & Logistics Expert

You know how to use chopsticks. Great. But did you just stick them vertically into your rice? Stop. In Korea, that looks like you are offering food to the dead at a funeral.

Korean dining culture is strictly governed by Confucian principles of respect and hierarchy. But don't punish yourself—Koreans are very forgiving to foreigners. However, if you want to impress your local friends, here are the 10 rules to follow.

Master the Meal: 10 Korean Dining Rules You Must Know

1. The "Eldest First" Rule​

This is the golden rule. Do not pick up your spoon until the oldest person at the table picks up theirs. Even if you are starving, wait. It is a sign of respect.

2. Don't Lift Your Bowl​

In Japan or China, lifting the rice bowl to your mouth is common. In Korea, it is considered rude. Leave the bowl on the table. Use your spoon to scoop rice and soup. Use chopsticks only for side dishes.

3. The Chopstick Taboos​

  • Vertical Stick: As mentioned, never stick them vertically in rice.
  • Hovering: Don't hover over dishes deciding what to eat. Target one and go for it.
  • Spearing: Don't stab food with a chopstick like a spear.

4. The Drinking "Two-Hand" Pour​

When pouring a drink for someone (especially an elder), use two hands.

  • Pouring: Right hand holds the bottle, left hand supports your right elbow/wrist.
  • Receiving: Hold your glass with both hands.

5. The "Head Turn"​

When drinking alcohol with an elder, turn your head slightly away from them. Covering your mouth with your hand is also polite. It is considered disrespectful to face them directly while downing a shot.

6. Scissors are for Food​

Don't be shocked when the server brings giant scissors. They are not for arts and crafts. Use them to cut long noodles (Naengmyeon), big pieces of Kimchi, or BBQ meat.

7. The Magic "Call Button"​

Korean servers will leave you alone until you need them. Look for a button on the table (often near the napkin drawer). Press it, and a "Ding-dong" sound will summon the staff. If there is no button, confidently shout "Yogi-yo!" (Over here!).

8. "Mul-eun Self" (Water is Self-Service)​

If you sit there waiting for water, you will die of thirst. Look for a sign saying "Water is Self". Go to the purifier and fill your own cup.

9. Sharing is Caring​

Korean meals are communal. Stews and side dishes (Banchan) are meant to be shared. Don't hog the Kimchi. But for hygiene, use a clean spoon if the pot is big.

10. NO TIPPING​

I repeat: Do NOT tip. It is not part of the culture. Good service is standard. Leaving money on the table might confuse the server, who might run after you thinking you forgot your change.

Eating in Korea is more than just nutrition; it is a social ritual of 'Jeong' (connection).