Drinking Culture — Soju, Beer & the Rules
South Korea has one of the most intense drinking cultures in the world — alcohol is a social lubricant, stress vent, and ritual all at once. The average Korean drinks more spirits than anyone else on earth (Soju makes the difference).
The Drinks
- Soju (소주): Korea's national drink — a clear spirit (16–20% ABV) from the green bottle, mild and slightly sweet. Drunk neat from small glasses. The most famous brand: Chamisul. ₩1,500–4,000 per bottle. Caution: Soju tastes harmless but packs a punch.
- Maekju (맥주, Beer): Korean beer (Cass, Hite, Kloud) is light and drinkable. The revolution: Craft Beer is booming — Seoul and Busan have excellent craft beer scenes.
- Somaek (소맥): The Korean bomb — Soju mixed into beer. Prepared ritually (the perfect Somaek pour is an art).
- Makgeolli (막걸리): Traditional rice wine, milky-cloudy, slightly sparkling, sweet-sour. Best enjoyed in Jeonju or when it rains (there's a Korean saying: "Makgeolli and Pajeon when it rains").
The Drinking Rules
- Never pour for yourself: Always pour for others — never for yourself. When your glass is empty, someone will pour for you.
- Two-handed: When pouring, hold the bottle with both hands or one hand on the neck and the other on the elbow (gesture of respect).
- Turn away from elders: When an elder pours for you, turn slightly away and cover the glass with your hand while drinking — a sign of respect.
- Don't refuse the first glass: Refusing the first glass of Soju is impolite. After that, you can set your own pace.
💡 Tipp
Soju from the convenience store costs ₩1,500 (1 €) — the cheapest alcoholic drink you will find in Korea. The drinking culture is sociable and fun, but be careful: Soju tastes harmless but has 16–20% alcohol and leads to legendary hangovers. Always eat Anju (snacks) while drinking!
