How to Say Cheers in Korean, and Other Cultural Nuances of Korean Drinking Etiquette316

When it comes to drinking, Koreans have a rich and vibrant culture that is steeped in tradition. From the specific ways to hold a glass to the etiquette of toasting, there are many nuances to Korean drinking culture that can be unfamiliar to outsiders. One of the most important aspects of Korean drinking culture is the act of saying cheers, which is known as “geunbae” (pronounced “kun-bae”).

Geunbae: The Korean Cheers

Geunbae is a Korean word that literally means “empty glass.” It is used as a toast to wish someone good health and happiness. When saying geunbae, it is customary to clink glasses with the other person. The glasses should be clinked together at eye level, and the person who initiated the toast should say geunbae first. It is also important to make sure that your glass is full before clinking glasses, as it is considered rude to clink glasses with an empty glass.

Other Korean Drinking Etiquette

In addition to saying geunbae, there are several other important aspects of Korean drinking etiquette that should be observed. These include:
Hold your glass with two hands. This is considered to be a sign of respect for the other person.
Do not pour your own drink. It is considered to be rude to pour your own drink. Instead, wait for someone else to pour it for you.
Do not drink too much. It is considered to be impolite to get drunk in public.
Be prepared to drink a lot. Koreans typically drink a lot of alcohol, so be prepared to drink a lot if you are going out with Korean friends.
Be social. Drinking in Korea is a social activity, so be sure to be social and talk to the other people at the table.

Korean Drinking Culture: A Rich and Vibrant Tradition

Korean drinking culture is a rich and vibrant tradition that is steeped in history. By understanding the etiquette of Korean drinking culture, you can ensure that you have a positive and enjoyable experience when drinking with Korean friends.

Additional Tips for Saying Cheers in Korean

Here are a few additional tips for saying cheers in Korean:
The word “geunbae” can be used in a variety of contexts, not just when drinking alcohol. It can also be used when toasting someone on a special occasion, such as a birthday or anniversary.
There are several different ways to say “cheers” in Korean. In addition to “geunbae,” you can also say “seungbaek” (pronounced “sung-bek”), which means “victory cup.”
When saying cheers, it is important to make eye contact with the other person. This is considered to be a sign of respect.

2025-01-04

Previous：Korean Pronunciation for Non-Native Speakers

Next：Enchanting German Words that Evoke Poetic Imagery