Courtesy of Romeo A

Hi, I’m Charlie. I’ll be your guide for the night. I hope you’re ready because we’re about to explore the reality of Korea. Things might get a bit messy, your make-up might start running, we might miss the last train home, and there’s a possibility you’ll end up drunk-dialing someone. But, as Koreans, we’re in it together. So, strap in. Let’s get this show on the road.

Pre-Game

You step off the train on a Friday night and emerge from the depths of Seoul’s subway system, a place we call Ji-ok-chul (literal hell). You are enveloped in a symphony of sights and sounds. Neon lights so bright you can almost hear them buzz. People push and move quickly all around you. Everyone’s got somewhere to go and here in Korea, we do things pali-pali (quickly-quickly). There’s a silence among people as they travel around the city, but it’s a silence so loud it gets you charged up for the night.

Before we order a bottle of Fresh (soju), let’s go over some basic rules: 1) When pouring a drink for someone, remember to hold the bottle with both hands: Your right hand gripping the bottle, and your left hand, supporting your wrist. 2) Never pour for yourself – Not only is it considered disrespectful, it’s also said to bring bad luck. 3) It is considered polite to turn away from your elders when drinking. 4) When drinking with friends, for the inaugural shot of the night, you can raise your glass and say ‘Jjan!’ - an informal way to say “Cheers!” This might all sound confusing and hard to remember, but don’t worry. If you are a tourist and happen to stray from these guidelines after a few too many shots, that is COMPLETELY FINE! Just focus on having fun and being with the people around you. That is what Soju is for after all. Now that we’ve covered the essentials, let’s get down to business.

Work hard, drink harder

Koreans categorize their drinking escapades into rounds, known locally as ‘cha’. So the........

© The Korea Times