In it’s most bare and basic sense, the origin of chopsticks is attributed to Chinese culture, dating back to over 5,000 years ago. Initially, they were simple twigs which were restricted to meal preparation, not really making their way over the dining space. However, with evolution and recurring phases of food shortage, items being cooked began to be chopped into smaller pieces which the Chinese eventually realised, was perfect to grip with their chopsticks. This tradition caught on in China alone by 400CE. By 500AD, it managed to make its way into Korea and Japan.