If you work or participate in an internship in Korea, you’ll most likely be invited to a 회식 (hoesik)! Hoesik is a company dinner that at first glance, it might just seem like a meal with colleagues, but for many Koreans, it plays an important role in building trust and team spirit beyond the office walls.
Typically held after working hours, hoesik often includes going out for Korean barbecue, seafood, or spicy hotpot. Due to how drinking culture is strongly tied to these gatherings, it's common to see coworkers pouring soju for each other as a sign of respect. For new employees or interns, this can be both exciting and nerve-wrecking.
Compared to Indonesia, this kind of after-hours company meal is more frequent in Korea. In Indonesian offices, occasional group lunches or birthday celebrations are common, but they’re usually more relaxed and voluntary. People tend to head home after work, unless it’s a special occasion. However, in Korea, these social dinners are considered part of "company life" and some may feel pressured to attend.
That said, the culture is evolving. Younger workers increasingly value work-life balance, and some companies now hold non-drinking hoesik, such as bowling nights, cafés, or even lunch outings. While still a big part of professional life, the format of hoesik is becoming more diverse and mindful.
Whether you’re expected to join for one round (il-cha) or multiple (i-cha, sam-cha…), hoesik is more than just dinner! It’s a cultural experience that reflects Korea’s collective work spirit. And while it may feel intense compared to Indonesian office gatherings, it offers a unique window into how professional bonds are strengthened in Korean society.
Image by Yonhap
If you work or participate in an internship in Korea, you’ll most likely be invited to a 회식 (hoesik)! Hoesik is a company dinner that at first glance, it might just seem like a meal with colleagues, but for many Koreans, it plays an important role in building trust and team spirit beyond the office walls.
Typically held after working hours, hoesik often includes going out for Korean barbecue, seafood, or spicy hotpot. Due to how drinking culture is strongly tied to these gatherings, it's common to see coworkers pouring soju for each other as a sign of respect. For new employees or interns, this can be both exciting and nerve-wrecking.
Compared to Indonesia, this kind of after-hours company meal is more frequent in Korea. In Indonesian offices, occasional group lunches or birthday celebrations are common, but they’re usually more relaxed and voluntary. People tend to head home after work, unless it’s a special occasion. However, in Korea, these social dinners are considered part of "company life" and some may feel pressured to attend.
That said, the culture is evolving. Younger workers increasingly value work-life balance, and some companies now hold non-drinking hoesik, such as bowling nights, cafés, or even lunch outings. While still a big part of professional life, the format of hoesik is becoming more diverse and mindful.
Whether you’re expected to join for one round (il-cha) or multiple (i-cha, sam-cha…), hoesik is more than just dinner! It’s a cultural experience that reflects Korea’s collective work spirit. And while it may feel intense compared to Indonesian office gatherings, it offers a unique window into how professional bonds are strengthened in Korean society.
Image by Yonhap