What's brewing: How to make and drink your own beer in N.Korea | NK News
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September 28, 2026Sep 28, 2026

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Ask A North Korean

What’s brewing: How to make and drink your own beer in N.Korea

Drinking is very popular in the North, so much so that strong alcohol is treated like a 'soft drink'

Every week we ask a North Korean your questions, giving you the chance to learn more about the country we know so little about.

This week’s question comes from Jason in Arlington, Virginia:

How do North Koreans get alcoholic beverages? Are there bars or pubs? Can you get alcohol for consumption at home? Also, how old is the minimum drinking age?

There are various ways to purchase liquor in North Korea. You can buy them at the market, at the factory where the liquor is produced or even from a home brewer.

People go straight to the factory and pay