Going Dutch: Splitting Bills Around the World
What Is “Going Dutch”?
Going Dutch means splitting the cost of a shared meal or activity so that each person pays their own share. The phrase is interesting in itself: it traces back to 17th-century rivalry between England and the Netherlands, when the English used “Dutch” as a pejorative for stinginess. The irony is that the Netherlands is actually one of the most financially straightforward cultures in the world.
1. Bill-splitting Culture Around the World
2. How Korea’s Bill-splitting Culture Is Changing
The Generational Shift
Korean payment culture is transforming rapidly. Based on 2023 survey data:
- 73% of people in their 20s say going Dutch feels natural among friends
- 62% of people in their 30s support going Dutch at work dinners too
- 45% of couples prefer going Dutch or taking turns
3. Fair Methods for Splitting the Bill
Method 1: Even Split
Total bill ÷ number of people = each person’s share
Pros: Simple
Cons: Unfair to light eaters
Method 2: By Individual Order
Each person pays for their own items + (shared dishes/drinks divided equally)
Pros: Most equitable
Cons: Requires more calculation
Method 3: Taking Turns (Alternating)
“I’ll get this one, you get the next one”
Pros: No need to calculate every time
Cons: Possible imbalance in amounts
Method 4: Proportional Split
Agree on a ratio based on income or circumstances (e.g., 70/30)
Pros: Accounts for financial inequality
Cons: Requires agreement on the ratio
4. Bill-splitting Calculator
5. Splitting Dating Costs — A Practical Guide
| 구분 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Exactly half for every outing | Each person covers the full bill on alternating occasions | |
| Even small meals require calculation → fatigue over time | No calculation stress; naturally balances out over time | |
| Can cause friction if one person orders more expensive items | Any imbalance smooths out naturally over the next turn | |
| Clear and feels fair in the moment | Builds flexibility and trust in the relationship |
6. Resolving Group Dinner Disputes
Common Problem Scenarios
| Situation | Solution |
|---|---|
| Someone doesn’t drink alcohol | Calculate drinks separately, then split the rest evenly |
| One person orders a much more expensive dish | Calculate by individual order, or have that person cover the difference |
| Someone leaves early | They pay only for what they ordered |
| Someone has no cash | Instant digital transfer (PayPal, Venmo, Splitwise, etc.) |
| A senior person is present | Clarify beforehand whether it’s going Dutch or covered by one person |
7. Bill-splitting Apps
| App | Features |
|---|---|
| Splitwise | Global bill-splitting app; excellent for complex travel or group expenses |
| PayPal / Venmo | Request money from individuals, instant transfer |
| Zelle | Instant bank transfers for US users |
| Revolut | Works internationally; group split feature available |
8. The Psychology of Money in Relationships
Why Talking About Money Feels Uncomfortable
Psychology research suggests several reasons why it’s hard to bring up money:
- Reciprocity norms: The psychological pressure to give back what you’ve received
- Face-saving: The sense that calculating money makes a relationship feel transactional
- Conflict avoidance: Fear of seeming cheap or petty by asking for a split
Yet researchers consistently find that clear, honest communication about money actually strengthens relationships. Specific agreements, rather than vague expectations, lead to healthier long-term dynamics.
References
- Wikipedia — Going Dutch: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Going_Dutch
- Splitwise usage statistics: https://blog.splitwise.com
OIYO Editorial
Editorial DeskThe OIYO editorial desk researches money, law, lifestyle, and self-understanding topics against primary sources and public statistics. Every piece carries source notes and is reviewed on a regular cycle for accuracy and usefulness.