If you've ever worked in Korea or even visited for business, you might have heard of Hoesik (ํ์) . It's a company dinner (or sometimes lunch) where coworkers get together to eat, drink, and bond. Sounds fun, right? Well… it depends on who you ask! Some people love it, others dread it . Let’s dive into what makes Hoesik both a blessing and a curse, and how it has changed after COVID-19. The Good Side of Hoesik One of the best things about Hoesik is that it helps break the ice between coworkers . In Korean work culture, hierarchy can be pretty strict, so these gatherings provide a rare chance to talk casually with your boss or colleagues. People share personal stories, joke around, and build stronger relationships outside of the office setting. It can also be a great way to de-stress after work. With delicious food (think Korean BBQ, fried chicken, or seafood) and drinks flowing, it’s a moment to enjoy and relax with your team. Some even say Hoesik is where real teamwork s...
Hey there, future Korea traveler! ๐ฐ๐ท You’ve probably heard about Korean BBQ & Soju and Chicken & Beer (a.k.a. Chimaek)—two legendary food combos that every Korean swears by. But do you know why these pairings are so special? And have you ever heard about Hoesik (ํ์), the Korean work dinner culture?
Well, sit back, grab a drink (preferably soju ๐), and let me introduce you to the delicious world of Korean food culture!
๐ Korean BBQ & Soju: The Classic Power Duo
Picture this: You walk into a Korean BBQ joint, and the smell of sizzling pork belly (์ผ๊ฒน์ด, samgyeopsal) fills the air. Your friend hands you a small green bottle of soju, and someone starts grilling the meat right in front of you. Congratulations! You’re experiencing peak Korean culture.
๐น Why is BBQ always paired with soju?
The smoky, juicy pork belly and the clean, sharp taste of soju are a match made in heaven. Trust me, it just works.
Soju is also perfect for Korean-style toasts (“์ง ! - Chan!"), where you clink glasses and down a shot together. It’s all about bonding! ๐ฅ
๐น Korean BBQ Rules You Should Know
Never pour your own soju—someone else has to do it for you!
When drinking with elders, turn your head slightly away when taking a sip (it’s a sign of respect!).
The best way to eat samgyeopsal? Wrap it in lettuce with garlic, ssamjang (spicy paste), and a slice of kimchi. Absolute perfection. ๐
Oh... Just looking at this picture is making me crave Samgyeopsal right now!
๐ Chicken & Beer ("Chimaek"): The Perfect Late-Night Snack
Besides BBQ, what else? Chimaek (์น๋งฅ)! This legendary combo—fried chicken (์นํจ) and maekju (๋งฅ์ฃผ, beer)—is a must-try, especially while chilling by the Han River or watching a Korean drama.
๐น Why is chimaek so famous?
Korean fried chicken is extra crispy (thanks to double frying!) and comes in a variety of flavors: original, spicy, soy garlic, honey butter… you name it!
Beer just makes everything better. A cold pint + crispy chicken = heaven.
๐น Pro tip: In Korea, you’ll find chicken restaurants everywhere—even ones open till 3 AM. If you’re having a lazy night in, just get it delivered to your hotel (yes, they deliver until late at night!).
๐ป By the way... Have You Heard of Hoesik? (ํ์)
Now, let’s talk about something truly Korean: Hoesik (ํ์)—a company dinner where co-workers eat, drink, and bond. If you ever work in Korea, you will experience this.
๐น How often do Koreans have Hoesik?
At least once a month, sometimes more if there’s something to celebrate (or if the boss is in a good mood ๐).
After finishing a big project? Hoesik.
A new employee joins? Hoesik.
Just a random Friday? Why not? Hoesik!
๐น What happens at Hoesik?
Round 1: Korean BBQ & Soju ๐๐ถ – The official “team bonding” meal.
Round 2: Karaoke (๋ ธ๋๋ฐฉ) or Chicken & Beer ๐ค๐ – Things get louder, people start singing.
Round 3: More drinking at a pub (ํฌ์ฅ๋ง์ฐจ) ๐ถ – If you’ve made it this far, you’re now family.
Round 4? Go home before your boss orders more shots. ๐
๐น Hoesik Survival Tips:
✅ If someone pours you a drink, hold your glass with both hands (it’s polite!).
✅ Want to skip drinking? Just say “I have an early meeting tomorrow” (a classic excuse that usually works!).
✅ Expect some fun games—like “Baskin Robbins 31” (a number game where the loser drinks) or the soju cap flick game.
✈️ Your Mission in Korea: Try These Combos!
If you’re visiting Korea, your to-do list just got easier:
✅ Eat Korean BBQ and take a shot of soju.
✅ Try Chimaek by the Han River (or at least in a cool restaurant!).
✅ Experience Hoesik culture (or at least watch one happen from a safe distance ๐).
Trust me, once you’ve had BBQ & Soju or Chimaek, you’ll understand why Koreans love them so much. Ready to eat like a local? Let’s go! ๐๐ฅ