For my first experience, my school took me to eat authentic Korean BBQ: 삼겹살 (samgyupsal) known as Pork Belly Fat. I know it sounds a bit weird but once you see it and have a taste of it, you won’t go back.
Firstly, the youngest or new employee, is the one turning the meat at the table but I lucked out. Possibly because they knew I was a new to this thinking: 'ah, foreigner won't know how to do it'. I've been so blessed with such wonderful co-workers though.
Secondly, be prepared to consume alcohol at all dinners. Receive, Give, and Pour everything with two hands, turn to your side to drink away from the elder, and never leave your elders with an empty shot glass. Even if you don't want to drink, take it anyway because it'll be seen as disrespectful if you don't. The catch is, drinking only half of the shot glass, and then leaving it on the table. Never fill a half empty, or half filled, shot glass with more.
After you finish, it’s typical that 냉면 (naeng myeon), which is chilled buckwheat noodles, is ordered and eaten. It's usually a little sour but very refreshing.
So that's what usually happens at a company dinner. Don't be nervous though and if you make mistakes, it's okay. You'll be corrected. They won't get upset at you because you failed; they know you're foreign to these customs so they won't make a big deal out it. However, if you try and learn their ways, ask questions, and show that you're open to their customs, they'll like you even more. Just remember this, always be polite. Good luck on your next 회식 and as always, remember to drink responsibly.
