Tips on Korean Table Manners

Know the Proper Table Etiquette in Korea

History of Korean Table Settings and Manners

Different cultures follow different rules for table manners. Korean families usually eat rice, soup, and three to four dishes, so a typical Korean table setting consists of a bowl of steamed rice, a soup bowl, a spoon and chopsticks, which are arranged from left to right, in that order, for each person. Korean meals are not usually served in courses. They are served at the same time, and people help themselves to the food.

Stews and side dishes are placed in the center to be shared by all members. Koreans generally believe that sharing food from one bowl makes a relationship closer, but if one feels uncomfortable with sharing the one-for-all dishes, it is okay to ask for an individual bowl or plate. Today many Korean restaurants naturally provide individual bowls and plates.

Since the ancient times, Koreans used a spoon to eat steamed rice, soup and stews while chopsticks were used to eat a variety of rather dry side dishes. Koreans are trained to use the spoon and the chopsticks correctly from childhood. Using both of these utensils at the same time is considered to display bad manners.

Meals were served on either high or low tables until the Koryo Dynasty. However, during the Choson Dynasty, the low table came to be predominantly used due to a type of underground heating system (ondol) that came into use at that time. The tables were often beautifully shaped and decorated. During the rituals and palace ceremonies, however, the high tables continued to be used, preserving the ancient tradition. Nowadays, the seated dining table with chairs are becoming popular while many families still use low tables. In addition, historically, when having a meal with the elderly, you must wait for the elders to hold their spoon first. Only then should the rest of the family eat after the oldest person has eaten a spoonful, but nowadays all family members eat together at the same time.

Quick Tips During the Meal

* In the past, talking was not allowed at the dinner table but this eating etiquette has become more liberal and talking or socializing is now acceptable.

* Koreans also do not hold their bowls or plates while eating.

* When using chopsticks, the spoon is rested on the table. Spoon and chopsticks are not rested on any bowl or dish.

* Do not put aside the rice or side dishes with the spoon, and do not pick out what you don't like or shake off seasonings as that as seen as rude.

* During a meal, uneatable parts such as bones or fish bones are quietly discarded by wrapping them in a paper. Do not put them on the table or floor.

* Try to keep pace with others by eating not too fast or too slow.

* When having a meal with the elderly, wait for them to put the spoon and chopsticks on the table at the end of the meal. It is considered rude if one leaves the table before the elder finishes. Staying put until the oldest person is finished is considered a basic concept of Korean table manners.

* Finally, when the meal is finished, the spoon and chopsticks are placed back down on the table.

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