Beer Culture Showdown: Korea vs. Australia – How Drinking Styles and Flavors Differ
Beer is a universal language, but how people enjoy it varies dramatically across cultures.
In South Korea and Australia, beer drinking is deeply ingrained in social life, yet the styles, occasions, and preferences couldn’t be more different.
While Korea is dominated by crisp, commercial lagers often paired with social gatherings and food, Australia boasts a thriving craft beer scene with an emphasis on variety and individuality.
Let’s dive into the fascinating differences in beer culture between these 2 countries.
1. Beer Selection: Commercial vs. Craft
In Korea, beer is synonymous with mass-produced lagers such as Cass, Hite, and Terra—light, easy-drinking, and typically served ice-cold. These beers are designed to be refreshing, pairing well with classic drinking foods like fried chicken (chimaek, a combination of “chicken” and “maekju” (beer)) and spicy bar snacks. Craft beer is gaining popularity, but commercial brands still dominate the market.
Australia: A Craft Beer Paradise
Australia, on the other hand, is a haven for beer lovers who enjoy variety. While mainstream beers like Victoria Bitter (VB), Tooheys, and Carlton Draught remain popular, craft breweries have exploded across the country.
From hoppy IPAs and rich stouts to fruity sours and crisp pilsners, Australians appreciate a wide range of flavors.
Each state has its own beer culture—Melbourne is known for experimental brews, while Queensland favors easy-drinking lagers for the hot climate.
2. When and How People Drink Beer
South Korea: Social and Ritualistic Drinking
Beer drinking in Korea is highly social and often part of structured drinking rituals. It’s common to drink in rounds, with one person buying for the group and others taking turns. Drinking games, soju-beer (somaek) mixing, and beer towers at Korean BBQ restaurants or pubs (hofs) create a lively atmosphere. After work, employees frequently head to hoesik (corporate dinners) where beer and soju flow freely.
Australia: A More Casual and Independent Experience
In Australia, beer drinking is often more relaxed and independent.
While mates enjoy beers at the pub after work, there’s no strict expectation to drink in rounds. Weekend barbecues, beach outings, and sports events are classic beer-drinking occasions. Pubs and breweries offer casual settings where people savor beers at their own pace, appreciating different flavors rather than drinking purely for social bonding.
3. Beer Trends and Popular Styles
| Feature | South Korea | Australia |
|---|---|---|
| Popular Beers | Cass, Hite, Terra | VB, Tooheys, Coopers, craft beers |
| Beer Strength | Light (4-5% ABV) | Varies (4-8%+ ABV) |
| Drinking Style | Social, fast-paced, food-focused | Relaxed, independent, flavor-focused |
| Unique Trends | Somaek (Soju + Beer), Beer towers | Hazy IPAs, Fruit Sours, Craft Lagers |
4. The Future of Beer in Korea and Australia
Korea’s craft beer scene is growing, with local breweries like The Booth, Magpie Brewing, and Amazing Brewing Company bringing variety beyond light lagers.
Meanwhile, in Australia, the craft beer industry continues to evolve, with sustainability, low-alcohol beers, and new brewing techniques driving trends.
Whether you prefer Korea’s food-friendly lagers and drinking rituals or Australia’s diverse and evolving craft beer scene, both countries have something unique to offer. So next time you raise a glass, think about the culture behind the beer in your hand!
Which beer culture do you prefer? Let us know in the comments! ☺
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