South Korea’s capital serves up some of the best food-and-drink experiences in Asia. The standout drinking tours combine culture with local flavors, and I’ve found the guided options particularly worthwhile.
Korean BBQ tours are excellent value, pairing smoky grilled meats with unlimited drinks. For sports enthusiasts, the baseball game packages – complete with dinner and local beer – capture Seoul’s energetic atmosphere perfectly. The Hongdae district pub crawls showcase the city’s modern drinking culture, while traditional makgeolli brewery tours connect visitors with centuries-old brewing methods.
Based on decades of exploring Seoul, these are our favorite drinking tours that deliver authentic experiences without tourist traps.
Key Points
- Seoul offers a variety of guided drinking tours, including a pub crawl through Hongdae or Itaewon with free shots and drink discounts.
- The Chunpoong Makgeolli Brewery tour allows visitors to self-guide through the facility and taste two fresh varieties of the traditional Korean rice wine.
- The Authentic Chicken & Beer Tour focuses on Korean fried chicken and beer culture, with a menu featuring 90s-style and smoky country-style barbecue.
- The KoreaByLocal Night Walk is an evening tour with a local guide that includes a traditional meal of 치맥 (fried chicken and beer).
- Many of the drinking tours in Seoul accommodate small groups of up to 11 travelers for a more personalized experience.
Immersive Korean BBQ, Market, and Secret Pub Experience in Seoul
For those seeking an immersive culinary experience in Seoul, the Immersive Korean BBQ, Market, and Secret Pub Experience offers a tantalizing adventure.
Spread over 3 hours in Seoul’s Mapo district, this highly-rated tour (98% traveler recommendation) invites guests to savor the authentic flavors of traditional Korean BBQ, including charcoal-grilled pork, savory pancakes, and Korean tempura.
Highlights include the prized pork galmegisal delicacy and unlimited drinks like beer, makgeolli, and soju.
With a maximum of 11 travelers, the tour provides a personalized and welcoming atmosphere, enhanced by knowledgeable guides who share cultural insights.
Not wheelchair accessible, this experience caters to adventurous eaters and is highly recommended for solo travelers and groups alike.
Read our full review: Immersive Korean BBQ, Market, and Secret Pub Experience in Seoul Review
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Seoul: Jasmil Baseball Stadium Game Ticket With Dinner/Beer
Travelers seeking an immersive cultural experience in Seoul can enjoy a 4.5-hour baseball game at the Jamsil Baseball Stadium. Priced from $84.20 per person, the package includes entry tickets, Korean barbecue or fried chicken for dinner, and a complimentary beer.
A live tour guide provides English and Korean commentary, allowing guests to fully engage with the electric atmosphere and enthusiastic cheering culture. Participants can also meet international travelers and join in the crowd’s chanting and dance moves.
After the game, an included post-game party offers further opportunities to socialize and experience Korean sports culture. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this baseball adventure is a must-do for sports and culture enthusiasts visiting Seoul.
Read our full review: Seoul: Jasmil Baseball Stadium Game Ticket With Dinner/Beer Review
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Seoul Pub Crawl by Absolute
Those seeking to experience Seoul’s vibrant nightlife can embark on the Seoul Pub Crawl by Absolute. This guided tour takes participants to 4 bars and clubs in the Hongdae or Itaewon areas, providing free shots and drink discounts.
With a 97% recommendation rate from 136 reviews, the tour offers a safe, supervised experience, especially for solo female travelers. Participants can enjoy party photos and the variety of music and venues.
While some feedback mentioned crowd size and organization, the overall sentiment is highly positive, with travelers praising the fun, well-organized events and friendly hosts.
Priced from $20 per person, the tour allows for free cancellation and flexible booking.
Read our full review: Seoul Pub Crawl by Absolute Review
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The Seoul Pub Crawl [official]
The Seoul Pub Crawl is an official guided tour that takes participants on a memorable journey through Seoul’s vibrant nightlife. Priced at €23.23 per person, the 4-hour experience explores the famous districts of Hongdae and Itaewon.
Travelers can expect to meet 40-60 other party-goers and enjoy skip-the-line access and free entrance to bars and clubs. Four shots are provided throughout the night, and discounted access is available while bar hopping.
The tour is open to those 19 and older, though some clubs may limit entry to those under 35. With an overall rating of 4.6/5 and excellent value for money, this tour is an ideal way to experience Seoul’s reputation as the party capital of Asia.
Read our full review: The Seoul Pub Crawl [official] Review
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Chunpoong Makgeolli Brewery Visitor Ticket
For those seeking an intimate and educational experience with Seoul’s renowned Makgeolli, the Chunpoong Makgeolli Brewery Visitor Ticket offers a self-guided tour through this historic brewery.
With a rating of 5.0 stars and recommended by 96% of travelers, this experience includes a tasting of two fresh Makgeolli varieties.
The self-guided tour uses a mobile information booklet to guide visitors, allowing a maximum of 10 travelers per tour.
While the minimal employee interaction and self-guided nature may not meet everyone’s expectations, the positive reviews highlight the high-quality Makgeolli and appealing brewery design.
Located near public transportation, this tour is suitable for most travelers, excluding pregnant women and those requiring wheelchair access.
Read our full review: Chunpoong Makgeolli Brewery Visitor Ticket Review
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Seoul: Pub Crawl
Partygoers seeking a lively night out in Seoul’s vibrant nightlife scene can embark on the Seoul: Pub Crawl, a guided tour that promises an unforgettable evening of bar-hopping and socializing.
For $25 per person, the 4.5-hour experience takes participants to 4 bars and clubs, with the opportunity to meet over 50 fellow revelers. Included are free entry, 4+ welcome shots, and party photos, ensuring a safe and supervised environment.
Participants must be between 18-45 years old and adhere to a casual dress code. With an overall rating of 4.7/5, the Seoul: Pub Crawl offers excellent value and a memorable way to explore Seoul’s nightlife.
Read our full review: Seoul: Pub Crawl Review
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Drinking and Eating Through the Alleys of Seoul
Seeking a more immersive cultural experience, visitors can explore the hidden alleys of Seoul on the “Drinking and Eating Through the Alleys of Seoul” tour.
This 5-hour excursion offers a 5.0-rated experience with 96% of travelers recommending it. For $85 per person, guests can sample local delicacies, learn about Korean food culture, and visit authentic restaurants and markets.
The tour includes alcoholic beverages and dinner, though other food and drinks are paid separately. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guide, Mike, for his passion and the tour’s ability to provide an authentic Seoul experience.
While some find the separate costs less transparent, the overall sentiment is highly positive for adventurous eaters seeking to enjoy Korean cuisine and culture.
Read our full review: Drinking and Eating Through the Alleys of Seoul Review
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Authentic Chicken & Beer Experience
Visitors exploring Seoul’s vibrant food scene can enjoy the “Authentic Chicken & Beer Experience.” This 94% recommended tour provides a deep dive into the country’s beloved fried chicken and beer culture.
From the 90s-style Korean fried chicken to the smoky country-style barbecue, the menu highlights unique flavors not found outside Korea. The tour takes place in a variety of themed venues, including a WWII-inspired setting for the sizzling boneless thigh meat.
With a maximum of 11 travelers per group, this 2-hour experience offers an intimate and engaging look at Seoul’s food and drink traditions.
Read our full review: Authentic Chicken & Beer Experience Review
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KoreaByLocal] Authentic Seoul Night Walk and Chicken & Beer
Embark on an authentic exploration of Seoul’s vibrant nightlife with the KoreaByLocal Authentic Seoul Night Walk and Chicken & Beer tour.
This evening experience promises an immersive cultural journey led by a local guide, Jessica. Enjoy a walking tour of prominent landmarks while gaining insights into Seoul’s history.
The highlight is a traditional Korean meal of fried chicken and beer, known as “치맥.” With a maximum of 8 travelers, this intimate tour offers a personalized experience.
Priced at €46.22 per person, the tour includes snacks, alcoholic beverages, and one coffee or tea.
Positive reviews praise the knowledgeable guide and the enjoyable food experience. Don’t miss this opportunity to savor the flavors and ambiance of Seoul’s nightlife.
Read our full review: [KoreaByLocal] Authentic Seoul Night Walk and Chicken & Beer Review
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Recap
Seoul offers a wide range of drinking tours, from immersive Korean BBQ and market experiences to pub crawls and visits to a traditional makgeolli brewery. Whether you’re interested in trying authentic Korean cuisine and drinks or exploring the city’s lively nightlife, there’s a tour to suit your preferences. These tours provide a great way to discover Seoul’s vibrant drinking culture and enjoy the company of fellow travelers.