Korean Work Dinners (회식): What They Are and How to Politely Say No
A Cultural Guide for International Students and Workers in Korea
Introduction
If you plan to work in Korea, you’ll likely be invited to a 회식 (hoesik)—a work dinner, usually involving food, drinks, and socializing after hours.
It’s a big part of Korean workplace culture. But what if you don’t drink? What if you’re introverted? What if you’re tired?
Let’s talk about:
- What 회식 really means in Korea
- How to navigate it politely
- How to decline with manners, without harming relationships
What Is a 회식?
회식 literally means “gathering for a meal,” but it often includes:
- Grilled meat (삼겹살), Korean dishes, and lots of soju or beer
- A chance to bond with coworkers or managers outside of formal work
- Multiple “rounds” (1차, 2차, sometimes 3차): dinner → bar → karaoke
It’s often unofficially expected, especially in traditional companies or hierarchical teams.
Tip: Attendance may not be mandatory on paper—but skipping regularly can affect team dynamics.
Why It’s Important (But Optional)
 Pros |
 Cons |
|---|---|
| Build rapport with your team | Can feel tiring or awkward |
| Show cultural understanding | Pressure to drink or stay late |
| Opportunity to network or bond | Less time for rest or hobbies |
The key is balance: join when you can, but don’t feel forced every time.
When You Want to Say No…
You don’t need a dramatic excuse. What matters is tone and delivery—be respectful and clear.
Here are some polite Korean expressions to decline a 회식 invitation:
5 Polite Ways to Say “No, Thank You” in Korean
| 상황 | 정중한 표현 | 영어 번역 |
|---|---|---|
| 체력이 안 될 때 | 오늘은 컨디션이 좋지 않아서 쉬어야 할 것 같습니다. | I’m not feeling well today, so I need to rest. |
| 개인 일정이 있을 때 | 오늘은 개인적인 일정이 있어서 다음에 꼭 참석하겠습니다. | I have a personal plan today, but I’ll join next time. |
| 종교/문화적 이유로 술을 피할 때 | 술은 못 마시지만 식사만 함께해도 괜찮을까요? | I don’t drink, but may I join for the meal only? |
| 과음 분위기를 피하고 싶을 때 | 내일 중요한 일이 있어서 일찍 들어가야 할 것 같습니다. | I have something important tomorrow, so I’ll head home early. |
| 너무 자주 회식이 있을 때 | 이번에는 양해 부탁드립니다. 다음엔 꼭 함께하겠습니다. | I hope you understand if I skip this one—I’ll definitely join next time. |
Alternatives: Participate Without Pressure
- Join only for the first round (1차) and leave politely
- Help with ordering food or cleaning up to show effort
- Bring a non-alcoholic drink (many places offer 막걸리 without alcohol or sparkling water)
- If you’re new, attending at least once is a good gesture
How to Handle Drinking Pressure
| Situation | What to Say Politely in Korean |
|---|---|
| Someone offers you a shot | “죄송합니다, 술을 잘 못해요.” (Sorry, I can’t handle alcohol well.) |
| You’re asked to bottoms-up | “한 잔만 천천히 마시겠습니다.” (I’ll drink just one, slowly.) |
| You already declined once | “정말 죄송해요. 건강 때문에 자제하고 있어요.” (I’m really sorry—I’m being careful for health reasons.) |
Cultural Tip: It’s Not Just About Drinking
In modern workplaces—especially tech startups or global teams—회식 is evolving:
- More tea, brunch, or board game gatherings
- Managers who respect work-life boundaries
- Increasing awareness of cultural diversity and non-drinkers
If you explain kindly, most people will understand.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to drink or attend every 회식 to succeed in Korean work life.
But understanding the culture, showing effort, and declining with grace will help you build respectful relationships.
Remember: in Korea, how you say something matters just as much as what you say.
Next Post:
Korean vs. English Resumes: What’s the Difference?
Would you like a printable list of polite 회식 expressions? Let us know in the comments or send a message!