If you’re planning a trip to South Korea or thinking about living here, it’s important to understand the country’s legal age restrictions for drinking and driving. These laws might seem straightforward at first glance, but there are some cultural and legal nuances that can surprise even seasoned travelers. Whether you’re a tourist, exchange student, or expat, knowing the rules will help you stay informed and avoid trouble.
Legal Drinking Age in Korea: What You Should Know
In South Korea, the legal drinking age is 19. But there’s an important detail: this is based on the Korean age system. Until very recently, Korea used a traditional method of age calculation, where everyone gained a year on January 1 regardless of their actual birthday. However, in 2023, the country officially switched to the international age system for all legal and administrative purposes, including drinking laws.
Now, the legal drinking age aligns with the international standard: you must be 19 years old in international age, meaning you must have turned 19 based on your actual birthday.
So, what does this mean in practical terms?
If you were born in June 2006, you can legally drink starting June 2025.
It’s also worth noting that alcohol is widely available in Korea. You can buy it at convenience stores, supermarkets, and restaurants without much restriction. But don’t be fooled—Korea takes underage drinking seriously. If you’re caught drinking underage, even as a foreigner, you could be fined or even deported in serious cases.
When purchasing alcohol, ID checks are common, especially if you look under 25. Bring your passport or a valid alien registration card (ARC) if you’re a resident. Foreign driver’s licenses are not always accepted as valid ID in these situations.
Drinking Culture in Korea: Beyond the Law
Knowing the legal age is just the beginning. To truly understand drinking in Korea, you also need to understand the cultural side of it. Drinking is deeply rooted in social customs here. Work dinners, university gatherings, and even family events often involve alcohol.
Soju, a clear distilled spirit made from rice or sweet potatoes, is the most popular alcoholic beverage. Beer (called “maekju” in Korean), makgeolli (a milky rice wine), and various fruit-flavored sojus are also widely consumed.
If you’re of legal age, you’re likely to be offered a drink at some point. However, Korean drinking etiquette is different from that of many Western countries:
Don’t pour your own drink—let others pour it for you.
Always use two hands when pouring or receiving a drink, especially if the other person is older.
Turning your head away while drinking in front of elders is seen as polite.
If you’re not comfortable drinking, it’s okay to decline, but do so politely.
Understanding this etiquette helps you fit in better and shows respect for Korean culture.
Legal Age to Drive in South Korea
The minimum age to obtain a driver’s license in Korea is 18. This applies to both Korean citizens and foreigners residing in the country. You must be at least 18 years old, by international standards, to apply for a driver’s license.
There are two main ways to drive legally in Korea as a foreigner:
Using an International Driving Permit (IDP): If you’re visiting short-term (usually less than 90 days), an IDP based on the 1949 Geneva Convention is acceptable. The IDP must be accompanied by your original driver’s license from your home country.
Converting a foreign license: If you plan to stay long-term or become a resident, you can convert your foreign license to a Korean license. Some countries, including the US and Canada, have license exchange agreements with Korea. In most cases, you’ll need to pass a basic written test and present a notarized translation of your license.
Keep in mind that rental car companies usually require you to be at least 21 or even 23 years old to rent a car, regardless of the legal driving age. Requirements may also vary depending on the type of vehicle.
Driving in Korea as a Foreigner: What to Expect
South Korea’s roads are modern and well-maintained, but driving here can be intimidating for newcomers. Traffic in major cities like Seoul and Busan is often dense, and drivers can be aggressive compared to other countries. Navigation apps like Naver Map and Kakao Map are more accurate than Google Maps for directions.
Speed limits are strictly enforced through traffic cameras. Fines for speeding, illegal turns, or using a phone while driving are high and automatically mailed to your residence. There is zero tolerance for drunk driving. If your blood alcohol content is above 0.03%, you may lose your license—and even more serious consequences can follow if someone is injured.
Parking can also be a challenge in urban areas. Illegally parked cars are often towed or ticketed, and many residential areas have designated parking hours or restrictions.
If you’re planning to drive in Korea, especially outside the cities, it’s highly recommended to get familiar with local road signs and laws. Taking a defensive driving approach will make your experience safer and less stressful.
Public Transportation vs. Driving
While it is legal to drive in Korea at 18, most people don’t need to drive, especially in big cities. Korea boasts one of the best public transportation systems in the world. Subways, buses, and trains are cheap, reliable, and run frequently. Taxis are also affordable, and apps like Kakao T allow you to call a taxi without knowing much Korean.
Driving becomes more useful if you plan to explore the countryside, hike in national parks, or visit remote temples and beaches. In those cases, renting a car gives you flexibility and access to areas public transport doesn’t reach.
That said, many foreigners find they don’t need a car at all for daily life in Korea.
Special Notes for U.S. Military and Students
For U.S. military personnel stationed in Korea, there are different regulations. You must complete a specific driving safety course before being issued a U.S. Forces Korea (USFK) driver’s license. This is separate from the Korean licensing system and applies only within military jurisdiction.
Exchange students or working holiday visa holders often ask whether they can drive. As long as you’re 18 or older and hold a valid international license or Korean license, you are legally allowed to drive. Still, be cautious—insurance coverage is essential, and rental agencies may have their own age rules even if you’re legally allowed to drive.
Summary of Legal Ages in Korea for Drinking and Driving
Here’s a quick summary to help you remember the essentials:
Drinking age: 19 years old (international age, birthday-based)
Driving age: 18 years old (international age)
Rental car age: Often 21 to 23 depending on the company
ID required: Passport or Korean ARC (Alien Registration Card)
International Driving Permit: Required for short-term visitors
License exchange: Available for long-term residents from approved countries
Following the rules helps you stay safe and avoid legal trouble while enjoying everything Korea has to offer.
Resources to Help You Stay Informed While Living in Korea
If you’re planning a longer stay in Korea, consider bookmarking or registering with the following:
Korean Road Traffic Authority for license and driving tests
Korea Tourism Organization for updates on regulations
Local expat forums and Facebook groups for first-hand experiences
Local embassies often publish guides for nationals on driving, legal rights, and alcohol laws
Knowing these legal age requirements not only helps you comply with Korean law, but also makes your stay smoother and more enjoyable. Whether you’re raising a glass of soju or heading out for a road trip along the east coast, you’re better off when you’re prepared.