Siksa Yejeol (Korean Table Etiquette)

My love for Korean cuisine started with my uncle, who had lived in Seoul for a couple of years. His ramen recipe was the best! This year I would love to try out some restaurants too, but it's not usually fun alone.

[Speaking of Hansik, if you are a big fan of Korean food I really recommend the drama ''Let's Eat''! It stars Yoon Dojoon (Highlight/B2ST|) and idk, I just love him as an actor! But the drama focuses a lot on food and there are so many scenes where they are just eating delicious dishes. I haven't watched Season 2 because Season 1 was just so perfect.]
 

Anyways, back on topic. This week's homework at the K-pop academy is about Hansik and table manners. If you ever dreamed to visit Korea someday, knowing the language may not be enough. Knowledge about culture and etiquette is a must if you want to make a good impression.
It's all a matter of respect for others really, and the rules are quite straightforward!


1) Wait for the elders to start eating first
Age matters a lot in Korea, and the eldest member of any group is treated with more respect. Always wait for them to be seated first and start only after they have begun eating.


2) Show your gratitude for the meal.
At the start of the meal, say ''Jalmeokgesseumnida'' (잘먹겠습니다), which means ''I will eat well''. This is to give compliments to the chef or host.


3) Eating position.
Do not lift your bowls off the table when eating. Do not reach out for dishes too far from your seat.
Hold your cup with both hands when someone is pouring you a drink.
Also, try to eat at the same pace as everyone.


4) Do not make random noises during a meal,
like playing with your chopsticks, or blowing your nose. It's a universal pet peeve and everyone will hate you. Just don't.
But on the other hand, slurping is acceptable in ramen restaurants, as long as you are not being excessively loud.


5) Which utensils? (aka choose your weapons)
Do not use your hand to pick up food.
Small dishes are used for side foods, called in Korea ''Banchan''.
And under no circumstances, never leave your chopsticks sticking on the bowl of rice. It is a practice usually done at funeral ceremonies. Instead, leave it neatly on the table to indicate that you are done eating.


6) Alcoholic drinks.
Okay, this might be some sort of culture shock to many, but alcoholic drinks are very popular in Asian countries, It's common to see the consumption of alcoholic drinks such as soju in a family meal.
If you are in charge of the bottle, pour the drinks for others first.
If an elder offers you a drink, it is polite not to refuse unless you have a strong reason to do so.

There are so many rules that it might seem overwhelming to get everything right. But honestly, just use your common sense and your best behavior, and you are sure to show everyone your charming and caring personality!




I apologize for so many gifs in this post. But watching Kim Seokjin (BTS) eat so gracefully is a blessing everyone deserves, so what I should really be saying is ''You're welcome''.

See you in next week's edition of the Kpop Academy!