Honsul Bars in Korea — Where Solo Travelers Can Meet Locals Over a Drink

Honsul (혼술) is Korean for "drinking alone," and a honsul bar (혼술바) is a bar built for it — usually a long counter with single seats, small plates and a bartender who likes to talk. Because everyone there came alone, it's one of the most natural places for a traveler to start a conversation with Koreans. If you want to make a Korean friend, go sit at the counter and have a drink.

Why honsul bars are good for meeting people

• Everyone is solo, so nobody minds a stranger saying hello.
• Counter seating puts you shoulder to shoulder with locals and the bartender.
• Small portions of anju (drinking snacks) are sized for one person.
• Many regulars are curious about visitors and happy to recommend food spots — sometimes better than any app.

What to order

Drink	What it is
Soju (소주)	Korea's classic clear spirit — sip, don't race
Makgeolli (막걸리)	Milky rice wine, often lightly sweet
Highball (하이볼)	Whisky with soda — very popular right now
Korean craft beer	Many bars carry local brews

Drinking etiquette in 30 seconds

• Pour for others, not yourself. If someone pours for you, hold your glass with two hands (or one hand supporting the other).
• With someone older, it's polite to turn your head slightly away when you drink.
• "Geonbae!" (건배) means cheers.

Stay safe

• Know your limit — soju is stronger than it tastes.
• Keep an eye on your drink and your belongings, as you would anywhere.
• Getting back: use the Kakao T app or an official taxi late at night, as the subway stops around midnight.

Want to try Korean nightlife with a local host, or find good counter bars near your hotel? Ask us — and for daytime eating, see our Busan Gwangalli food walk.