Rare Alcohols in Korea

South Korea has a thriving drinking culture, with soju, makgeolli, and Korean beer being the go-to choices for most. However, if you're coming from the US or Europe, you might notice that some of your favorite drinks are surprisingly hard to find or overpriced in Korea. Here’s a look at alcohols that are popular in Western countries but uncommon in Korea.

Craft Beer (Beyond the Basics)

Korea has plenty of mass-produced lagers like Cass, Terra, and Hite, but true craft beer is still developing. While IPAs and stouts are easy to find in the US and Europe, Korea’s craft beer market is relatively young, and selection can be limited. Some foreign craft beers are imported, but they come with a hefty price tag.

Where to Find It in Korea?

• Magpie Brewing Co. (Itaewon/Hongdae)
• The Booth (Multiple Locations)
• Craftworks Taphouse (Seoul)

Absinthe

The strong, anise-flavored "Green Fairy" is a European favorite but remains rare in Korea. Its high alcohol content (often 50-70%) and historical myths surrounding hallucinations have made it a niche product. Some bars might stock imported absinthe, but expect to pay a premium.

Where to Find It in Korea?

• Absinthe Bar (Itaewon) – One of the only spots specializing in absinthe

Real Cider (Not Just Apple-Flavored Beer)

In the US and UK, hard cider is a go-to alternative to beer, but in Korea, true cider is scarce. Instead, you’ll find "apple-flavored beer" that lacks the crisp, dry taste of a traditional cider. Imports like Strongbow or Magners pop up occasionally, but they’re not widely available.

Where to Find It in Korea?

• High-end grocery stores like E-Mart or Costco sometimes stock imported brands

Mezcal

Tequila’s smokier cousin has become hugely popular in the US and parts of Europe, but in Korea, mezcal is still a mystery to most drinkers. Even finding quality tequila can be a challenge outside of select bars, let alone mezcal.

Where to Find It in Korea?

• Tequila bars in Itaewon or Gangnam, such as Southside Parlor

Mead

This one is a personal favorite. Mead, or honey wine, has seen a revival in the US and Europe, especially among craft beverage enthusiasts. However, in Korea, it’s almost nonexistent outside of niche import shops. Despite Korea’s love for sweet alcoholic drinks like makgeolli, mead hasn’t caught on—perhaps because honey is already a premium product here.

Where to Find It in Korea?

• Specialty import liquor shops (though selection is limited)
• Occasionally available in high-end wine stores

Rye Whiskey

Korea has no shortage of whiskey, but rye whiskey is much harder to come by than bourbon or Scotch. Rye’s spicy, dry profile is beloved in the US, but in Korea, whiskey drinkers tend to prefer smoother, sweeter varieties like single malts.

Where to Find It in Korea?

• Specialty bars like Le Chamber (Gangnam) or Alice Cheongdam

Final Thoughts

Korea’s drinking scene is constantly evolving, and while some Western alcohols remain hard to find, imports are slowly increasing. If you’re craving something specific, try checking specialty bars, international liquor stores, or even duty-free shops at the airport.

What’s your go-to drink that you can’t find in Korea? Let us know at the next Enkoplay event!