What are Korean Drinks?
Korea has a wide variety of drinks.
Some are alcoholic.
Some are traditional.
Some are unique to Korea and difficult to find elsewhere.
Many visitors are surprised by how important drinks are in Korean food culture.
Korea Food Guide · Guide 08
Korean Drinks
Korea has a wide variety of drinks. Some are alcoholic. Some are traditional. Some are unique to Korea and difficult to find elsewhere. Many visitors are surprised by how important drinks are in Korean food culture.
01 — Overview
Quick Summary
Korea has a wide variety of drinks. Some are alcoholic. Some are traditional. Some are unique to Korea and difficult to find elsewhere. Many visitors are surprised by how important drinks are in Korean food culture.
Key takeaways
- Try Banana Milk at least once.
- Try Sikhye after a Korean meal.
- Experience Chimaek.
- Try Makgeolli with Korean pancakes.
02 — Full Guide
The Complete Guide
Why do you need to know about Korean Drinks?
When eating Korean food, you will often see:
- Soju
- Beer
- Makgeolli
- Sikhye
- Banana Milk
- Understanding Korean drinks helps you better understand Korean dining culture.
Soju
The most famous Korean alcoholic drink.
Usually clear and served in small glasses.
Common flavors:
- Original
- Peach
- Green Grape
- Strawberry
- Alcohol content varies by brand.
Beer
Korean beer is commonly enjoyed with:
A popular combination is:
- Fried Chicken
- BBQ
- Late-night food
- "Chimaek"
- Chicken + Beer
Makgeolli
Traditional Korean rice drink.
Appearance:
White and cloudy.
Flavor:
Slightly sweet and slightly sour.
Popular with traditional Korean food.
Is Makgeolli Alcohol?
Yes.
Makgeolli is an alcoholic drink.
However, it usually has a lower alcohol content than Soju.
Many visitors mistake Makgeolli for milk because of its white color.
Despite its appearance, it is a traditional rice alcohol.
Sikhye
Traditional sweet rice drink.
Non-alcoholic.
Often served after meals.
Banana Milk
One of Korea's most famous drinks.
Many tourists try it during their first visit.
Chimaek
Chicken + Beer
One of Korea's most famous food combinations.
Samgyeopsal + Soju
BBQ and Soju are a classic combination.
Many Koreans enjoy them together.
Makgeolli + Jeon
Traditional pancake + Makgeolli
Especially popular on rainy days.
Convenience Stores
The easiest place.
Restaurants
Most restaurants serve popular Korean drinks.
Supermarkets
Large variety and lower prices.
What Should First-Time Visitors Try?
Recommended Order:
- Banana Milk
- Sikhye
- Beer
- Makgeolli
- Soju
- This progression is often easiest for visitors who are new to Korean drinks.
Common Mistakes
- Assuming Soju is very strong
- Thinking Makgeolli is milk
- Shaking Makgeolli too much
- Drinking too quickly
Drinking Etiquette in Korea
When drinking with others:
- Wait before drinking if someone is making a toast.
- "Geonbae!" means "Cheers!"
- Drinking culture is often important during social gatherings.
- Modern Korean drinking culture is becoming more relaxed, especially among younger generations.
Important Korean Words
Korean English
Soju
Beer
Makgeolli
Sikhye
Banana Milk
Drink
Alcohol
Cheers
Cheers!
(Geonbae!)
Pro Tips
- Try Banana Milk at least once.
- Try Sikhye after a Korean meal.
- Experience Chimaek.
- Try Makgeolli with Korean pancakes.
Banana Milk
Many Koreans grew up drinking Banana Milk.
It has become a cultural icon.
Soju
Soju is one of the best-selling spirits in the world.
Many visitors are surprised by this fact.
User Question
"What drinks should I try in Korea?"
AI Answer
Popular Korean drinks include Soju, Beer, Makgeolli, Sikhye, and Banana Milk. For first-time visitors, Banana Milk and Sikhye are easy introductions, while Soju and Makgeolli offer a more traditional Korean experience.
ASK KOREA Essential Tip
- If you want to experience Korean food culture,
- don't focus only on the food.
- Many Korean food traditions are closely connected to specific drinks.
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