회식

§ What '회식' Means

Korean Word

회식 (Hwesik)

Part of Speech

Noun

CEFR Level

A2

Definition

Company dinner; a meal or gathering with colleagues, bosses, or team members outside of regular work hours, often involving food and drinks.

When you work in Korea, or even if you're just learning about Korean culture, you'll hear the word 회식 a lot. It's a very common term, and understanding it is key to understanding a significant part of Korean work life. It's not just a dinner; it's a social event that plays a big role in team building and networking.

§ Where You Actually Hear This Word

You'll encounter 회식 most often in work-related contexts, but it can pop up in school discussions or even news reports about corporate culture. Let's break down some common situations.

At Work

This is the primary place you'll hear and experience 회식. Your boss or team leader might announce one, or colleagues might discuss past or upcoming ones. It's a regular part of many Korean companies.

It's common to talk about who attended, what was eaten, or funny stories from a 회식 the next day.

In School

While not as formal as a corporate 회식, students, especially at the university level, might use the term for group dinners or gatherings with their professors or club members. It carries a similar meaning of a group meal to foster camaraderie.

Here, it implies a more formal setting than just hanging out with friends.

In the News/Media

You might also see 회식 mentioned in news articles, especially when discussing corporate culture, employee welfare, or even political events where public figures are seen having a meal with their team. It can be used to describe formal or informal gatherings that are relevant to a professional context.

§ Important Context for '회식'

Understanding 회식 isn't just about knowing the definition; it's about understanding the cultural weight it carries. In Korea, these dinners are often seen as an extension of work, a place to build stronger relationships with colleagues and superiors. Attending them is generally expected and can influence your professional standing.

Key things to remember about 회식:

• It's usually initiated by a senior member or the company.
• Food and drinks (often alcohol like soju and beer) are central.
• It's a time for team bonding and informal communication.
• There can be multiple rounds (like going to a different bar after dinner).
• It's a significant part of Korean corporate culture.

Knowing these nuances will help you navigate conversations where 회식 comes up, whether you're hearing about it from a Korean friend or experiencing one yourself.