The Changing Culture of Company Dinners (Hoesik) From “mandatory” gatherings to personal choice—and modern etiquette

Introduction Company dinners, known as hoesik in Korea, have traditionally been viewed as indispensable rituals for reinforcing hierarchy, building team cohesion, and demonstrating loyalty. Attendance was often nonnegotiable, with employees expected to join their supervisors after hours to share drinks and meals. Over time, however,…