Drinking Culture

Last night went out for a couple of drinks with some new interesting friends. I like to hang out with fun-loving uncles, you get to learn so much from them.

Met his guy - Ryo-san, and his SIL's (son in law) brother Gyong through a friend. Ryo-san is a very fun to be with biz man who is operating some backpackers like resorts around the world. Ryo-san is a Japanese in his fifties and Gyong is in his mid 20s, taking English course in Singapore.

Besides the enjoyable drinking and lots of funny stories, Ryo-san taught me some Japanese and Korean drinking culture. Some sort like how to drink with the elders without being obnoxious.

The Japanese...
1. Japanese always serve their tea 70% full. Many restaurants are not doing this right.
2. Japanese guys never serve drinks to the ladies. The trend is changing though...
3. No matter how hot the sake bottle is, get rid of the tissue paper or towel wrapped around the bottle. Train up the heat resistance and hold the neck of the bottle with your fingers only.
4. Do not put the sake cup down after cheers. Finish what's in the cup then only put the cup down.
5. If it's a good sake, give compliments by saying "awwwwwww" from your throat then give your forehead a good "slap". A bit like you need to make noise while eating the noodles to show that it's really yummy!

The Koreans...
1. When cheers to the elders, the younger person's glass has to be lower than the older person.
2. When drinking, the younger person has to use one hand to cover the glass/ cup, turn to the side and drink.
3. It is very rude to look into the eyes or face the elders while drinking. This is so different from the German's - bad sex for 7 years rule for missing eye contact.

I wonder what are the Chinese rules... Nobody really taught me how it should be done.

yummmmmm seng!