Why Are There So Many Side Dishes (Banchan) in Korea?

“Jjan~” (jjan) is the sound Koreans make when clinking glasses.

It is commonly used when making a toast.

When is it used

• Before drinking

• While clinking glasses

• To match the group’s mood

What it means...

In Korea, people typically use both a spoon and chopsticks during meals.

Tableware in Korea

A typical Korean meal includes both tools.

• Spoon: for rice and soup

• Chopsticks: for side dishes

Each has a distinct role.

Characteristics of Korean Spoons...

In Korea, it is common to see small stacks of stones in mountains or along trails.

What it means

• Making a wish

• Hoping for good luck

• A simple, personal ritual

Why people do it

• Easy for anyone to try...

In Korea, the number 7 is often written differently.

A short line is added through the middle of the number 7.

Because of this, it can look different from the way 7 is written in other countries.

Why Is It Written This Way?

• To avoid confusion with the number 1

• To make the number easier to read

This style is commonly seen in handwriting....