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Somaek, Chimaek & Korean Drinking Culture Explained
Soju bombs, fried chicken with beer, and the unwritten rules of Korean drinking. A practical guide to Korea's drinking culture — what to order, where to go, and how not to embarrass yourself.
Korean drinking culturesomaek how to makechimaek KoreaKorean soju guideSeoul nightlife guidepojangmacha SeoulKorean drinking etiquettebest bars SeoulKorean fried chicken beer
Drinking Is a Social Sport in Korea
Korea's drinking culture is deeply social. After-work drinks (hoesik) are a bonding ritual. Chimaek (chicken + maekju/beer) is practically a national pastime. Somaek (soju + beer) is the signature mixed drink. You don't need to drink alcohol to participate — but understanding the customs makes the experience richer, whether you're joining a local gathering or just ordering at a pub.
Essential Korean Drinks
Soju (소주)
Korea's national spirit. Clear, ~17% ABV. Drink it straight in shots or mix with beer for somaek. Chamisul and Jinro are the most common brands.
Somaek (소맥)
Soju + maekju (beer). The golden ratio is 3:7 (soju:beer). Pour soju into beer, stir with chopsticks. Dangerously smooth.
Chimaek (치맥)
Chicken + maekju. Fried chicken with beer is Korea's ultimate comfort food combo. Order yangnyeom (sweet-spicy) and huraideu (original) for the full experience.
Makgeolli (막걸리)
Milky rice wine, ~6-8% ABV. Slightly sweet and fizzy. Best paired with pajeon (green onion pancake) on a rainy day.
Cass / Hite (맥주)
Korea's two dominant lager brands. Light, crisp, cheap. Not craft beer, but they go with everything. Served ice-cold.
Fruit Soju (과일소주)
Flavored soju in peach, grapefruit, grape, and more. ~12% ABV. Easier entry point for non-soju drinkers. Available everywhere.
What Drinks Cost
| Soju (360ml, restaurant) | 5,000-6,000 KRW |
| Soju (360ml, convenience store) | 1,800-2,000 KRW |
| Draft beer (500ml, hof) | 4,000-7,000 KRW |
| Craft beer (pint, bar) | 7,000-12,000 KRW |
| Makgeolli (750ml, restaurant) | 5,000-8,000 KRW |
| Fried chicken (whole, delivery) | 18,000-25,000 KRW |
| Chimaek set (chicken + beer, restaurant) | 25,000-35,000 KRW |
| Pojangmacha (2 people, moderate) | 25,000-40,000 KRW |
Prices as of Mar 2026. May vary by location.
Korean Drinking Etiquette
Do
- None of these are strict rules — think of them as small gestures that'll earn you a warm smile, especially from older Koreans.
- Pour drinks for others (never pour your own) — hold the bottle with two hands when pouring for elders
- Turn your head away from elders when taking a shot — this is the most important etiquette rule
- When drinking with someone older, receiving a glass with both hands is a nice touch they'll appreciate.
- Say 'gunbae' (cheers) and make eye contact before drinking
Don't
- Don't refill your own glass — wait for someone else to pour for you, and return the favor
- Don't refuse the first drink from an elder — take it gracefully even if you just sip
- Don't leave before the senior person at the table — they set the pace of the evening
- Don't pressure anyone to drink more than they want — 'one shot' culture is fading, especially among younger Koreans
Non-Drinker? No Problem
Korean drinking culture is inclusive. Order cider (Chilsung Cider, a lemon-lime soda — not alcoholic), cola, or juice. Nobody will judge you. At chimaek places, the chicken is the star anyway. At pojangmacha, the food is just as important as the drinks. If someone insists, a simple 'I can't drink for health reasons' (geongang ttaemune mothaeyo) ends the conversation respectfully.
Plan Your Visit
Seoul monthly averages to help you pack right
Jan-1°-8°18mm
Feb2°-6°25mm
Mar9°0°40mm
Apr17°6°65mm
May23°12°90mm
Jun27°18°130mm
Jul29°22°370mm
Aug30°22°290mm
Sep26°16°140mm
Oct19°8°45mm
Nov10°1°50mm
Dec2°-5°20mm
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