Can The “Maknae” Eat First? Debunking Korean Cultural Etiquette

A recent TikTok featuring aespa has started a debate about Korean cultural etiquette, specifically while eating a meal together.

aespa’s Giselle, Karina, NingNing, and Winter | @aespa_official/Twitter

In a viral clip, the members take a moment before eating cake. NingNing, the youngest member, is the first one to take a bite.

NINGNING PLS 😭😭😭 pic.twitter.com/gj6z2C7jgt

— ningning pics (@ningningpics) November 17, 2024

A popular TikTok brings up the topic: Is it against cultural etiquette for the youngest person to eat first? Or is this the norm?

i am MY dont come for me #aespa

♬ original sound – um. no.

It is true that this idea does exist in Korean culture, but only under certain circumstances. The unwritten table manner rule enforces that younger people at the table must wait until the elders/oldest eat first or give a signal to eat.

However, unless the age gap is large (think grandparents eating with their grandchildren), then this rule isn’t necessarily applied.

Additionally, with such little age differences between members of a K-Pop group, the rule wouldn’t typically apply in these situations.

It is important to remember that each unique situation depends on various factors like the occasion and group dynamic, so there is no blanket answer. A formal setting and group dynamic will enforce these rules more than a casual meeting between friends.

So, next time you’re having a meal with your friends or family, feel free to flex your Korean cultural knowledge!