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PhotoHunt - Funky

Do you know what is this? It is actually an alcoholic beverage native to Korean, known as Soju. The drinks really fit with the theme, Funky, as this alcoholic beverage has an offensive smell. Unlike beer or other wine, Soju taste like some chemical substance for me. It is clear in color but not easy to drink. In fact, it contains about 20% to 45% alcohol by volume. Although it is hard to drink for me, but just give a try when you visit to Korea.

Customs:

While most Koreans will understand foreigners are unaccustomed to their drinking traditions, they will generally follow these norms themselves and notice favorably when foreigners comply. Most, if not all, of these customs are applicable in Korea regardless of the drink.

• Soju is usually drunk in group gatherings.
• It is against traditional mannerisms in Korea to fill one’s own glass. They wait for someone else to fill their empty glass. Others are expected to fill the glass, and are eager to do so as soon as they spot an empty glass.
• A glass should not be filled unless completely empty.
• If one’s glass is going to be filled by a superior, one should hold the glass using two hands. Similarly, when pouring soju for an elder, one holds the bottle with two hands.
• If a senior gives an empty soju shotglass (usually his/hers) to you, it means that the person is going to fill the glass and wants you to drink it. You do not have to drink it bottoms up, but at least you have to act like you are drinking it (sipping is okay). And if you drink “the glass” and make it empty, then turn the glass back to the senior who gave it to you. You are not supposed to turn it back soon, but holding it for a long time is considered rude.
• Koreans say “one shot”, a challenge to down your glass in one gulp.
• When drinking in front of elders (people older than you), you should always turn away from the elder and then consume. Drinking the shot while facing the elder is disrespectful.
• When drinking among friends of equal social stature, it is often considered overly formal to use two hands when pouring or receiving a drink.

(Adapted from Wikipedia)