A coworker said as they parted, "Let's grab a meal sometime!" and smiled, apparently. The international student waited to hear back, but even after a month there was no word. That student asked me. "Was that person lying?" ## It's a greeting, not a promise It's natural to hear "let's eat" as an invitation. After all, taken literally, it really is a promise. But in Korea, this phrase is asking, "We're good, right?" It's closer to a greeting. It's similar to saying "take care" when you part ways. ## Why do people say this? Koreans worry that parting without a word will come across as cold. So they add a warm word or two. They don't mean to deceive anyone. Both the speaker and the listener know it's just a greeting, so no one feels hurt. Among Koreans, people can tell right away from the smiling face, the tone of voice, and whether it's the moment of parting or not. It's just that someone from outside can't see those signals. ## A Real Plan Comes with a Date A real plan comes with a date and a time. "How about Friday evening?" If someone says that, they mean it. If it's just "Let's grab a meal sometime," it's most likely just a greeting. If you really want to eat together, smile and be the first to ask. "Sounds good! When works for you?" If the other person names a date, it's a real plan. If they say, "Yeah, see you sometime," it was just a greeting. Still, you don't have to feel bad about it. That person was only showing that they like you.