Why Koreans turn away and cover their mouth when drinking alcohol

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In Korean culture, hierarchy and respect for elders or those in senior positions is a big deal. The gesture of turning away and covering the mouth while drinking is basically a Korean drinking etiquette, which emphasizes humility and social order.

This simply implies that when drinking in front of someone older or of higher status you have to do so with some form of etiquette or you could be seen as rude or arrogant.

The drinking etiquette in Korea does not just end with turning your head and covering your mouth.

There are also other aspects to it such as, when receiving a glass from an elder, you must hold the glass with two hands (left palm at the bottom and hold the glass with the right hand) and bow your head slightly.

Also, the first drink must be finished in one shot. When the glass is empty, the drinker hands it back to the person who poured the drink for them and the drinker then pours them a shot.

For the Koreans, this practice while drinking alcohol isn’t just something people do only at family dinners. You’ll see it at office gatherings, formal events, or even casual outings if there are elders or bosses around.

It’s especially common during “hoesik” — those after-work dinners where colleagues bond over food and drinks.

What makes this custom so interesting is how subtle it is. No one announces it; they just do it. It’s a quiet nod to Korea’s long-standing cultural values where they blend tradition with modern social life.

And even among friends, it’s not uncommon to see people adopt this habit out of respect or just because it’s become second nature.

So, if you’re ever in Korea and find yourself in a drinking situation with locals, especially someone older, try turning slightly and covering your mouth as you sip. It might feel a bit awkward at first, but your effort to respect the culture won’t go unnoticed.