Korea vs Japan Drinking Culture: Etiquette, Soju, and Izakaya
From etiquette with seniors to somaek, nomihodai, and how it is changing
Korean drinking culture is deeply tied to Confucian traditions. It's polite to pour drinks for elders and turn away while drinking in front of seniors. Soju is the national drink, and 'bomb shots' (somaek, mixing soju and beer) are popular.
In Japan, people drink freely after 'kanpai' (cheers), with relatively less hierarchical pressure than Korea. Izakaya culture involves enjoying various drinks and snacks, and 'nomihoudai' (all-you-can-drink) is popular.
Recently, both countries are seeing changing drinking cultures among younger generations, with growing rejection of forced drinking.
Key Differences
Korea: pour with two hands for elders / Japan: ochakuri pouring culture
Korea: turn away to drink / Japan: free drinking after kanpai
Korea: soju & bomb shots / Japan: sake & highball
Korea: 2nd & 3rd round culture / Japan: finish at one izakaya