Seoul: Korean Drinking Games Night & Hongdae Somaek Bar Crawl

Summary

Play real Korean drinking games in Hongdae bars with locals

You’ll jump right into Seoul’s nightlife with local drinking games in Hongdae bars, guided by someone who knows every rule and joke. Taste Somaek and Soju Bombs (or just enjoy snacks), learn to laugh at yourself, and leave feeling unexpectedly connected to strangers over shared wins and losses.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I heard was someone clapping too fast — like they were trying to outpace the music. We’d just squeezed into this tiny table in a Hongdae bar, neon signs flickering through the window, and our guide (he called himself “Hongdae Boy” — still not sure if that’s his real nickname or just for tourists) started stacking shot glasses. There was this low buzz of chatter everywhere, but it felt like we were in our own little bubble, half nervous, half excited. I could smell fried batter from the kitchen — later found out that’s the kimchi seafood pancake coming for us.

I’ll admit: I was worried about not knowing the rules or maybe embarrassing myself. But honestly? The games are so quick to pick up that you forget you’re even playing for points. Our guide kept switching between English and Korean, sometimes both at once (“Yaja time! Now you boss!”), and everyone just laughed when someone messed up. At one point I tried saying something in Korean — Li laughed so hard she nearly spilled her beer. The main keyword here is fun, but also “Korean drinking games night” because it really does feel like you’re part of some inside joke only locals know.

We learned how to make Somaek (beer plus soju — not as deadly as it sounds) and even did a Soju Bomb round like in those K-dramas. The fizzing sound when the shot drops into the glass is weirdly satisfying; it’s louder than you expect. For non-drinkers, nobody bats an eye if you skip a round or just nibble on the pancake instead (which is chewy and spicy at the same time). I still think about that moment when everyone cheered for a stranger who finally won a game after losing three times — it’s silly but kind of sweet. And yeah, by the end nobody really cared who came alone or with friends.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Experience Korean drinking games night

• Join Korean drinking games session
• Learn games from local guide
• Try making Somaek and Soju Bomb
• Enjoy Kimchi Seafood Pancake starter

Top questions

Is this Korean drinking games night suitable for non-drinkers?

Yes, non-drinkers are welcome and can join all games without alcohol.

Where does the tour take place?

The tour happens in Seoul’s Hongdae nightlife district.

What drinks are included?

The experience includes beer (for Somaek) and soju.

Is food included on this tour?

Yes, you get a kimchi seafood pancake during the night.

How do I get there? Is pickup included?

No hotel pickup; public transportation options are nearby.

Do I need to speak Korean or advanced English?

No advanced language skills needed; games are easy to follow for everyone.

Is this activity physically demanding?

No, it’s suitable for all physical fitness levels.

Can solo travelers join comfortably?

Yes, many people come alone and end up making friends during the night.

What’s included

Your night includes all Korean drinking games led by a friendly local guide known as “Hongdae Boy,” rounds of beer and soju for mixing Somaek or Soju Bombs (with non-alcoholic options if you want), plus a hot kimchi seafood pancake served right at your table while you play in lively Hongdae bars.