Alcoholic drinks to try in South Korea

Note: South Korea’s legal drinking age is 19

1. Soju

I’m starting this list off with South Korea’s most famous alcoholic drink, Soju. It’s ABV ranges between 12 – 17% so it has a bit of a punch but is still smooth. If you’ve never had it, think of a slightly sweeter and weaker vodka.

Soju is a clear spirit traditionally made from distilled rice wine and is typically served in shot glasses, either neat or dropped in a glass of beer (known as poktanju, or soju bombs). We saw groups of locals tossing these back at the Korean BBQ store we ate at.

Soju is also considered the go to choice for Korean drinking games – just like the famous ‘Apt’ game that Rosé and Bruno Mars’ song is based on.

You’ll find a range of different Soju brands along with a range of fruity flavours – from grapefruit to peach (my favourite).

Where to buy soju in Seoul

You can pick up the classic green bottles of soju at any convenience store. But if you’re interested in trying craft soju, check out specialty soju bars across Seoul (search ‘soju’ on Naver Map) or the city’s high-end restaurants. There are also tasting experiences available, like those offered by The Sool Company.

2. Makgeolli

Makgeolli is Korea’s oldest alcoholic drink, made from the same ingredients as soju but left undistilled -essentially an earlier stage of the soju-making process. With a lower alcohol content (around 6-8% ABV), it’s easier to drink, more like a beer than a spirit.

Flavour-wise, I’d describe it as being creamy, yet fizzy with a touch of sweetness and acidity.

Makgeolli has a rich history and traditions – like being served in a shallow ceramic bowl instead of a glass. You’ll find some brewing and tasting classes running in Seoul where you can learn about the history and process – this is something I’d love to book on my next visit.

Where to buy Makgeolli in Seoul

Like soju, makgeolli is easy to find in convenience stores, but if you’re looking to try something more refined, high-end craft versions are available at upscale bars and restaurants.

3. Cass

If you’re into beer, Cass is one of South Korea’s most popular picks. It’s crisp, light, and easy to drink – the perfect match for heavy and spicy Korean dishes.

My partner and I usually go for hoppy and fruity beers, but we found Cass to be simple but inoffensive – I’d say it’s the kind of beer almost anyone can enjoy.

For the best introduction, try it the local way – paired with a plate of fried chicken. This classic combo, known as ‘Chimaek’ (which literally translates to chicken and beer) is a Korean favourite.

Where to buy Cass in Seoul

You can pick up a bottle or can of Cass at nearly every convenience store, restaurant and bar in Seoul.

Non-alcoholic drinks to try in South Korea

4. Sikhye

Sikhye is a traditional Korean rice punch that’s lightly sweet, refreshing, and a little unexpected. Made from malted barley and cooked rice, it has a subtle malt flavour with soft grains of rice floating in it – it might seem unusual at first, but trust me, it works.

Known for its digestive benefits, Sikhye is typically enjoyed as a dessert drink to finish off a heavy meal.

Where to buy Sikhye in Seoul

You’ll find sikhye sold in cans at convenience stores and grocery stores, but I recommend trying a fresh version if you can. You’ll find this sold at some cafes around Seoul and markets like Gwangjang or Namdaemun. We tried it at Tteuran Teahouse in Ikseon-dong Hanok Village and would recommend it (visiting the cafe itself was so lovely we ended up visiting twice on our trip).

5. Chilsung Cider

Chilsung Cider is a classic Korean soft drink that’s been around since the 1950s. Despite the name, it isn’t alcoholic – unlike cider in the UK or Australia, or the fizzy apple drinks called cider in the US. Think of it more like Sprite, but milder with a more natural lemon-lime flavour.

It’s a really refreshing drink, so much so that it’s a popular choice for Koreans to drink after exercising. It’s a bit more carbonated than the soft drinks I’m used to, but this helps make it a good choice to have with oily and spicy foods.

Where to buy Chilsung Cider in Seoul

You can pick up a can or bottle of Chilsung Cider in convenience stores, vending machines and supermarkets across Seoul. You’ll also find it on the menu at restaurants as a soft drink option.

6. Milkis

Milkis is a carbonated soft drink with milk – it sounds a little strange I know, but it’s a must-try. It’s actually been my go-to drink when visiting the Korean supermarket back home.

It has a creamy, slightly sweet taste that’s surprisingly refreshing.

For your first taste go for the original flavour (blue label) then if you like it as much as I do try their fruity variations like melon and strawberry.

Where to buy Milkis in Seoul

Look for Milkis at any convenience store, vending machine or supermarket.

7. Banana Milk

While banana milk isn’t unique, it’s packed with nostalgia for South Koreans. It was first introduced in the 1970s to encourage people to drink more milk. Since bananas were considered a luxury back then, adding the flavour made it more appealing.

Go for the Binggrae brand, it’s the original and comes in the signature jar-shaped plastic bottle. The milk has that classic, sweet artificial banana flavour – like Nesquik banana powder, (which is definitely not a bad thing!).

Where to buy Banana Milk in Seoul

If you want to try it for yourself, you’ll find banana milk in every convenience store across Seoul.

8. Drink Pouches

Drink pouches are convenience store staples in Korea – you’ll find shelves of different flavours, from juices and cordials to iced coffees. The best part is being able to enjoy these ice-cold by grabbing a matching ice cup from the freezer. Just tear open the pouch, pour it in, and it’s ready to drink.

When we visited Seoul in August, these were a lifesaver in the humid weather. Grabbing an ice-cold, sweet drink on the way back to our accommodation became a little ritual.

Note: The pouches and ice cups come in different sizes (regular, big, or venti) so be sure to grab matching ones.

Where to buy a Drink Pouch in Seoul

You’ll find a range of drink pouches available at all of the major convenience stores like CU, 7-Eleven and GS25.