Should I use both hands when receiving dishes at a formal dinner in Seoul?

[Addison36]

I’ve been invited to a formal dinner in Seoul and I’m unsure about the etiquette around receiving dishes with both hands. Should I use both hands every time something is passed to me, or is it only for specific items like a drink from an elder?

[Emily_G]

In a formal Seoul dinner I watched the host hand items to guests and people paused with both hands cupping the dish or the glass, followed by a small bow. It felt like the signal of respect. If it’s just a waiter sliding a plate along the table, I still cradle it with both hands when possible, but I don’t hyperfocus on it every time.

[FrankMD]

I’ve tried this myself and I think using both hands for hot dishes or a drink from an elder helps, but I don’t stress it if I’m not holding something heavy. One hand seems acceptable when you’re just passing something small.

[Joseph.M]

Should I always use two hands, or does it depend on the item like a drink vs a plate?

[OliviaYM]

Once I overthought it and missed a moment to thank the host; now I just try to pace with the table and keep both hands ready when I can. It’s not a rule anyone quotes aloud, it’s a vibe you pick up.