Soju, Seoul, and Staying Out 'Til Sunrise

Let’s talk about something that doesn’t make it into your study abroad orientation packet: drinking culture.

Quick disclaimer: I’m not a big drinker or partier myself, so these observations are a combination what I've heard, seen and experienced a only a few times. But even as someone who prefers a quieter night, I still think it’s definitely worth experiencing at least once.

In Seoul, but especially in college towns like Anam and Hongdae, and of course, Itaewon as well, the nightlife and drinking culture is intense. 

And if you're part of an exchange student and Korean buddy club like KUBA at Korea University, buckle up. There will be bars, clubs, and so much soju. (Drinking age is about 18 there.)

Drinking is a huge part of Korean college social life.

Exchange buddy programs like KUBA love organizing pub or bar nights and late-night hangouts. Most meetups, even casual ones, involve alcohol, it’s how a lot of people bond.

Drinking games are a big deal too. Some are silly, others are strategic, but most are designed to get people drinking fast.

Mixing soju with beer (aka somaek) or soda is really popular, and you’ll usually end up somewhere with classic bar food: fried chicken, grilled seafood, ramen, fries or all of the above.

Peer pressure is definitely a thing. Most of it is lighthearted, but just know it’s okay to say no and set your own pace. For someone like me, who doesn’t usually drink a lot, it was a bit of a shock. But it’s worth trying at least once, even just for the stories.

Soju is cheap, strong, and everywhere.

People chug full bottles like it’s water (it’s not). Bright red faces? Totally normal. People getting sick or carried out? Also pretty common.

For a country rooted in respect and etiquette, there's surprisingly little shame around drinking too much. Just make sure to pace yourself, eat beforehand, and stay with people you trust.

The night does not end after one bar.

In Korea, going out usually means multiple rounds. Dinner and drinks might be just the beginning. After that comes the next bar, a club, karaoke, maybe a fried chicken or ramen place, and usually ending the night with a photobooth. It’s not uncommon to hit five spots in one night.

People stay out until the subway starts again around 5 or 6 am, especially in Hongdae, where the party never really stops.

Not really my scene, but still iconic.

I’m not the biggest partier, so I didn’t go out that often. But I did the Hongdae clubbing experience (the amateur way). Looking back, I kind of wish I gave it a better try. The truth is, nightlife was further down on my priority list while trying to make the most of my time in Korea.

Still, I rallied for one night. Threw on a cute outfit, left a little before 11 p.m., and made it to 3 a.m. before grabbing a slice of pizza and catching the late-night bus back to the dorm with one of my friends. 

I got back around 4:30 a.m. since the late-night bus takes forever and it is crowded. And, I stopped at the local convenience store for a snack (thankfully they’re open 24/7).

One thing I loved: even at that hour, I felt relatively safe. Seoul really is a city you can walk around in at night, although its always better to have a buddy with you.

Korean nightlife is chaotic, wild, and unlike anything else. Whether you go out every weekend or just once, I guarantee you’ll come back with stories.

Until the next one,

Ashley 💌