SDLC Cultural Post #5

[June Choi]

Based on my cultural presentation and also my personal experience in Korea, Koreans have a contrasting and strict dining etiquette compared to the US. For drinking etiquette, one must always pour their neighbor’s or elder’s glass while supporting his or her elbow. Additionally, it is considered disrespectful if one starts eating before the elder does. Table manners include avoiding using chopsticks to point at someone, not picking up one’s rice bowl, never using one’s fingers to eat, and not lifting the bowl from the table. When eating, common sayings include “잘 먹겠습니다,” which means “I will eat well” or “thank you for the food.” At the end of the meal, Koreans typically say, “잘 먹었습니다,” which means “I ate well” or “the food was delicious.” My personal experience with Korean dining etiquette started when I ate with my grandparents in Korea, for they are more traditional and expect strict adherence to cultural formality at the dining table. I would have to wait for my grandfather to eat first, and also ask to leave the table. I would also set his rice bowl and utensils before setting anyone else’s up. Therefore, I find the Korean dining etiquette intriguing compared to the very relaxed American dining setting.