🤔 What is a “Hoesik”? Korean After-Work Dinners Explained
If you're working in Korea or doing business with Koreans, there's one cultural ritual you can't avoid: “회식 (hoesik)”. This after-work dinner with colleagues may sound casual, but it's packed with unspoken rules and cultural significance. In this post, you’ll learn what a hoesik is, what to expect, and how to survive it like a pro.
📚 Table of Contents
1. What does 'hoesik' mean?
“회식” (hoesik) literally means “company meal.” It refers to dinners (often with alcohol) that happen after work with your coworkers. Hoesik is seen as an extension of work — a chance to build team spirit, bond with your boss, and let loose after a long day.
It can happen for many reasons: welcoming a new member, celebrating a project, saying goodbye to someone, or just to boost morale.
2. What happens at a typical hoesik?
- 1st round (일차): Korean BBQ, samgyeopsal, or bulgogi with drinks
- 2nd round (이차): Bar or hof with more drinks and snacks
- 3rd round (삼차): Karaoke (노래방) or late-night ramen/beer
Not all rounds are mandatory, but juniors (especially in large companies) often feel pressured to attend.
3. Hoesik etiquette: What to do (and not to do)
✅ Hold your glass with two hands
✅ Turn slightly away when drinking in front of elders
❌ Don’t refuse the first drink — even if you sip lightly
❌ Don’t leave early without a good reason
Hoesik culture is evolving, with younger Koreans more tolerant of people who don’t drink or want to leave early — but it's still polite to show up and participate.
4. Useful Korean phrases during hoesik
- “건배!” – Cheers!
- “잘 먹겠습니다.” – Said before eating (polite)
- “부장님, 한 잔 받으세요.” – Manager, please have a drink (formal way to offer)
- “오늘 즐거웠습니다.” – I had a great time today.
5. 🤔 Did you know?
Some Korean companies now host “건강 회식” (healthy hoesik) — no alcohol, no late nights, just a lunch or bowling night! This reflects the growing work-life balance trend in younger generations.
That said, old-school companies may still value long, drink-filled dinners — so be ready for both.
6. Practice Korean for Work Culture on italki
👉 Book a workplace Korean lesson with me on italki and learn how to survive your first hoesik with confidence!
