The South Korean capital of Seoul possesses all the vital components that constitute a vibrant craft beer scene. Home to more than 9 million individuals, the pool of beer lovers is considerable. Seeing as the the city consistently ranks in the top tier of the world’s largest metropolitan economies, peaking at 6th in 2022, many of these beer lovers can afford to pay a little extra for an artisanal brew. Not only that, many of them gladly do so on a regular basis!
The craft beer movement in South Korea began gaining traction in the early 2010s, when the strict brewing regulations in place at the time were loosened. Catering to a growing consumer base seeking alternatives to the mainstream lagers that dominated the market, microbreweries and taprooms started emerging around the country.
Local breweries soon started incorporating unique ingredients – such as yuja (yuzu), omija (five-flavour berry), and fermented rice – to create brews with distinct regional characteristics. Other brews that reflect the country’s culinary heritage pack a spicy kick, like those infused with Gochujang, and beers prepared with local teas or herbs, including the likes of mugwort.
A National Pastime
Drinking is considered a key component of social as well as business-oriented interactions in South Korea. Both types of relationships are solidified over drinks and it is common for work colleagues to head to a bar for hoesik (company dinners), which often involve rounds of drinks.
Alcohol is also a staple at private celebrations, such as weddings and ancestral rites, and national holidays like Chuseok and Seollal. These drinking sessions tend to last a long time so pacing oneself is essential. More casual sessions often progress in rounds, with participants moving to different locations – be it bars, restaurants, or karaoke rooms – for each cycle. Refusing a drink may require polite insistence and can be considered socially awkward in some settings.
Popular alcoholic beverages include the quintessential Korean spirit, Soju, which can be consumed neat or in combination with beer (somaek) as well as fruit juices. These cocktails are widely appreciated for their kick.
For those who prefer something with lower alcoholic content and a more rustic appeal, Makgeolli is a traditional rice wine with a creamy texture and slightly tangy flavour. And then, of course, there is beer (maekju)…
Drinking Etiquette
Korean drinking culture comes with several distinct customs rooted in a social hierarchy that demands respect for elders and superiors. For instance, it is customary to turn one’s head and slightly cover one’s mouth when drinking in front of a senior.
Furthermore, one must always pour drinks for others rather than oneself and use both hands when doing so. The two-handed rule also applies to anyone receiving a drink. It is also regarded good decorum to refill others’ glasses when they are running low.
While traditional etiquette persists, younger generations tend to be more relaxed about these rigid rules and prefer to focus on creativity and overall enjoyment. This trend has been accompanied by a shift towards low-alcohol or alcohol-free options.
On the other hand, some preferences are unlikely to ever change. A number of drinking snacks (anju) – such as Korean fried chicken, dried squid, kimchi pancakes, or stir-fried dishes – are commonly consumed alongside alcoholic beverages. A love for drinking games remains prevalent across all age groups as well.
Craft Beer Hotspots in Seoul
Seoul’s craft beer scene is largely concentrated in a handful of neighbourhoods. For starters, Itaewon – situated in the heart of the metropolis on the right bank of the Han River – is a hub for expats and foodies that boasts a large number of pubs and taprooms offering local as well as international brews.
Hongdae, located approximately 5 km to the west, offers an eclectic mix of beer bars and breweries – often featuring live music – that are especially popular with the younger crowd.
At a similar distance to the east of Itaewon lies Seongsu, also known as the “Brooklyn of Seoul”. The area’s industrial-chic aesthetic pairs perfectly with its thriving craft beer venues, including the standout Amazing Brewing Company, to which more attention will be paid below.
Finally, on the left bank of the Han River, sprawls the district of Gangnam. Translating to “South of the Han River”, this upscale area is dotted with gleaming skyscrapers, high-end restaurants, and trendy nightclubs capable of booking internationally renowned house and techno DJs. Concurrently, the area also houses an array of stylish bars that have jumped on the craft beer bandwagon.
The vast majority of the craft beer venues listed below operate out of these four neighbourhoods.
Seoul Craft Beer Directory
Click on any venue listed below for more information, or scroll through the rest of this page to review Beer Asia’s directory of craft beer venues in Seoul (in no particular order):
Craft Beer Venues in Seoul
JHBrewing
First up, the only entry on this list that is located outside of Seoul proper. Founded by a young master brewer who earned his stripes in Germany, JHBrewing is quickly making a name for itself on the Seoul craft beer scene.
JHBrewing’s range of 10 beers includes novel flavours such as the Acacia Belgian IPA, Hibiscus Witbier, and Extra Sabro Stout. The entire mélange is poured fresh at the Hanam brewpub on the left bank of the Han River. A small selection of finger foods is also available.
- Address
R125 25, Hanam-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea - Open location on Google Maps
- Call +82 10 8915 7718
- Follow on Instagram
- Check-in on Untappd
- Operating hours
Wednesday – Saturday: 5PM – 11PM
Sunday – Tuesday: Closed
Magpie Brewing Co.
One of the pioneers of the Korean craft beer scene, Magpie Brewing Co. was established in Seoul by four friends in 2011. Since 2016, the brewery has been concocting its range of delicious elixirs in a repurposed tangerine warehouse on the northern shores of Jeju Island. Nationwide distribution commenced in 2017.
Located along the War Memorial of Korea’s eastern borders, the Magpie Brewshop in Itaewon is a cosy, no-frills affair with 10 craft beers on tap. This selection is made up of the brewery’s own range as well as several guest beers. During the warmer months of the year, seating is expanded to include an outdoor section; during the harsh Korean winters, patrons gladly huddle up in the upstairs tap room or downstairs basement area.
- Address
244-1 Noksapyeong-daero, Yongsan District, Seoul - Open location on Google Maps
- Call +82 2749 2703
- Visit Website
- Like on Facebook
- Operating hours
Wednesday – Sunday: 4PM – 11PM
Monday – Tuesday: Closed
The Booth Brewing Co.
Located just around the corner from Magpie Brewing Co., The Booth is a quaint craft beer bar with a history of engaging in collaborations with renowned breweries – including the likes of Mikkeller – in a bid to offer its patrons something out of the ordinary.
The Booth started off as a small pizza joint that served a limited variety of local artisanal brews but soon expanded to include brewing activities. A range of imported craft beers is also stocked. Current pours include a dry hopped sour, a robust porter, and a wheat ale.
- Address
7 Noksapyeong-daero 54-gil, Yongsan District, Seoul - Open location on Google Maps
- Call +82 70 8866 7273
- Like on Facebook
- Follow on Instagram
- Check-in on Untappd
- Operating hours
Monday – Friday: 10:30AM – 09:40PM
Saturday – Sunday: 11:30AM – 09:40PM
Amazing Brewing Company
Trendy Seongsu brewpub with close to 20 in-house beers and up to a half-dozen guest appearances on tap.
Known for its experimental range, Amazing Brewing Co. has become so popular that patrons are regularly forced to wait before they can be seated and start sampling their brew(s) of choice. Hence, if you’re planning a visit, make sure to give yourself ample time!
- Address
4 Seongsuil-ro 4-gil, Seongdong-gu, Seoul - Open location on Google Maps
- Call +82 2 465 5208
- Like on Facebook
- Follow on Instagram
- Check-in on Untappd
- Operating hours
Monday – Friday: 5PM – 12AM
Saturday: 3PM – 12AM
Sunday: 2PM – 11PM
Brew 3.14
Popular with locals and tourists alike, Brew 3.14 is a tiny craft beer bar that is also renowned for its variety of pizzas and pies. Primarily defined by an easy going vibe that is conducive to conversations with strangers, the beers on offer are all of Korean origin.
- Address
39 Donhwamun-ro 11na-gil, Jongno District, Seoul - Open location on Google Maps
- Call +82 70 4178 3014
- Like on Facebook
- Follow on Instagram
- Operating hours
Monday – Saturday: 5PM – 12AM
Sunday: Closed
Euljiro Brewing
Sporting the most recognisable logo – featuring a man falling backwards into a glass of beer; or on all fours, vomiting unashamedly – on the Seoul craft beer scene, Euljiro Brewing operates two taprooms along a neon-soaked alley in the Euljiro neighbourhood.
Both venues are equipped with outlandish interiors and neat design features. As they are located across the way from one another, patrons need not be disheartened if one or the other happen to be full upon arrival.
Euljiro Brewing currently offers a selection of five home brews on tap, including an amber lager, an American hefeweizen, and a robust porter.
- Address
48-16 Supyo-ro, Euljiro 3(sam)-ga, Jung District, Seoul - Open location on Google Maps
- Call +82 2 2272 1825
- Like on Facebook
- Follow on Instagram
- Check-in on Untappd
- Operating hours
3:30PM – 2AM daily
Artmonster
One of the first Korean craft beer producers to embrace self-pour technology at all its venues, Artmonster has been described as “the Bladerunner of breweries in Seoul”.
As patrons are seated, they are provided an electronic wristband which can be used to pour their own beers by tapping it against one of the circa 16 valves in operation. This system allows one to sample the treasure trove of styles on offer in small quantities before pouring a full glass of their educated choice. Available brews include Artmonster’s core range as well as a number of seasonal offerings and collaborations.
The Gangnam venue is particularly popular, having featured in multiple music videos, dramas, and TV chat shows.
Euljiro
- Address
349-1 Euljiro 3(sam)-ga, Jung District, Seoul - Open location on Google Maps
- Call +82 2 2272 6110
- Visit Website
- Like on Facebook
- Follow on Instagram
- Check-in on Untappd
- Operating hours
Monday – Saturday: 5PM – 1AM
Sunday: 3PM – 11PM
Gangnam
- Address
28-3 Teheran-ro 1-gil, Gangnam District, Seoul - Open location on Google Maps
- Call +82 2 6448 6110
- Operating hours
Monday – Friday: 4PM – 1AM
Saturday: 3PM – 1AM
Sunday: 3PM – 11PM
Hongdae
- Address
2nd floor, 131 Eoulmadang-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul - Open location on Google Maps
- Call +82 50 71306 6110
- Operating hours
Monday – Friday: 5PM – 1AM
Saturday: 3PM – 1AM
Sunday: 3PM – 11PM
Ikseon
- Address
30 Donhwamun-ro 11da-gil, Jongno District, Seoul - Open location on Google Maps
- Call +82 2 745 0721
- Operating hours
Monday: 3PM – 11:30PM
Tuesday – Friday: 3PM – 12AM
Saturday: 2PM – 12AM
Sunday: 2PM – 11PM
Goose Island Brewhouse
A slice of Chicago beer culture in the heart of Gangnam.
Established in 1988, Goose Island is a first-generation American craft beer brand that has gained international acclaim for the creative originality of its brews. From beers brewed with hops grown on the company farm to vintage lines aged in bourbon and wine barrels, this Windy City exponent feels no way about charting its own course and sticking to it.
Goose Island’s impressive selection of signature brews – including the Big Juicy Bear Hug IPA, Full Pocket Pilsner, and award-winning Mango Pang Pang – are prepared on-site. In other words, freshness is guaranteed!
- Address
118 Yeoksam-ro, Gangnam District, Seoul - Open location on Google Maps
- Call +82 2 6205 1785
- Visit Website
- Operating hours
Monday – Saturday: 11:30AM – 12AM
Sunday: 11:30AM – 11PM
The Ranch Brewing Company
Quite possibly the most quirky pub in Seoul, a visit to The Ranch Brewing Co. starts by entering through a huge red metallic fridge door. Once inside, patrons can admire the massive murals and colourful illustrations that cover the venue’s walls.
The Ranch’s full range – which is brewed in Daejeon, approximately 150 km south of Seoul – pours from a total of 14 taps. Furthermore, a selection of some of the best pizzas in the metropolis can be found here. Patrons can order from a tablet on their table so service tends to be swift.
Please note that, being one of the better value-for-money craft beer venues in Seoul, a one drink minimum per customer is enforced.
- Address
11 Eulji-ro 12-gil, Jung District, Seoul - Open location on Google Maps
- Call +82 2 2272 2060
- Visit Website
- Like on Facebook
- Follow on Instagram
- Check-in on Untappd
- Operating hours
Monday – Friday: 5PM – 12AM
Saturday: 12PM – 12AM
Sunday: 12PM – 10PM
White Rabbit Tap House
Another Itaewon gem, White Rabbit Tap House is located next door to the previously mentioned Magpie Brewing Co. Apart from a solid selection of local and imported craft beers, this chilled out, homey bar also stocks an impressive range of soju and whisky.
- Address
242 Noksapyeong-daero, Itaewon-dong, Yongsan District, Seoul - Open location on Google Maps
- Call +82 10 3583 8526
- Like on Facebook
- Operating hours
6PM – 12AM daily
Seoul Gypsy
Operating out of a traditional Korean house located a stone’s throw away from the Jongmyo Shrine, Seoul Gypsy is an independent brewery that serves up to a dozen local craft brews on tap.
Staples include the likes of a yogurt IPA and a barrel-aged imperial stout. While the brews on offer are somewhat pricey compared to those poured at other venues on this list, the helpful staff, atmospheric decor, and overall ambiance at Seoul Gypsy render it a desirable stop on your craft beer tour of the city.
Apart from the aforementioned brewpub cum beer hall, Seoul Gypsy also operate the Hannam Taproom in Itaewon.
- Address
107 Seosulla-gil, Jongno District, Seoul - Open location on Google Maps
- Call +82 2 743 1212
- Like on Facebook
- Follow on Instagram
- Operating hours
Tuesday – Friday: 4PM – 11PM
Saturday – Sunday: 3PM – 11PM
Monday: Closed
Beerpost Bar
A chilled out bar situated off the beaten path in the up and coming neighbourhood of Mullae, this venue stocks an impressive range of bottled beers in its vast walk-in cooler. Containing a wide array of styles, you will find everything from traditional to experimental, American to Belgian, and anything in between.
Furthermore, Beerpost Bar also offers a small selection of cider, mead, wine, and makgeolli.
The bar is affiliated with South Korea’s largest beer-orientated publication, The Beer Post. Editions of this bilingual (Korean and English) magazine are displayed on shelves stretching across an entire wall. Big white neon letters above these shelves encourage patrons to “Read Beer, Drink Book.” Challenge accepted!
- Address
15 Dorim-ro 131-gil, Yeongdeungpo District, Seoul - Open location on Google Maps
- Call +82 2 2068 6277
- Like on Facebook
- Follow on Instagram
- Operating hours
Monday – Thursday: 5PM – 12AM
Friday: 5PM – 1AM
Saturday: 4PM – 1AM
Sunday: 4PM – 12AM
Seoul Brewery
Founded in 2018, Seoul Brewery is dedicated to producing high-quality beers that celebrate the unique flavours and traditions of Korea. The brewery has concocted over 50 unique seasonal brews and close to 40 collaborative efforts to complement its core range. Hence, a visit to either of its brewpubs is a guaranteed feast for the palate!
The brewpub in Seongsu deserves a special mention due to the fact that it encompasses a beer lounge, cafe, restaurant, music venue, and rooftop area, spread out over multiple floors. Be sure to check it out!
Hapjeong
- Address
10 Tojeong-ro 3an-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul - Open location on Google Maps
- Call +82 70 7756 0915
- Like on Facebook
- Follow on Instagram
- Check-in on Untappd
- Operating hours
Monday – Friday: 5PM – 12AM
Saturday – Sunday: 1PM – 12AM
Seongsu
- Address
310-53 성수2가제1동 Seongdong-gu, Seoul - Open location on Google Maps
- Call +82 2 3409 7910
- Operating hours
11AM – 12AM daily
