K-ocktail Culture – How South Korea is Shaking Up the Bar Scene

Over the past years, South Korea’s bar scene has been growing at an incredible pace, blending creativity, tradition, and innovation. While drinking has always been an essential part of Korean culture, the modern cocktail movement is still young. What makes it so exciting is how quickly bartenders and bar owners are learning, experimenting, and refining their craft to keep up with global trends.

Seoul, in particular, has become a hotspot for both high-end mixology and underground speakeasies. The city’s bars are no longer just following international trends—they’re setting them.

With venues like Zest climbing the ranks in Asia’s 50 Best Bars – jumping 45 spots to No. 5 in just three years – it’s clear that Korea’s bar scene isn’t just growing—it’s improving at an impressive speed.

Among the most renowned names in the industry is Charles H., the exclusive speakeasy hidden within the Four Seasons Hotel Seoul. Another standout is Bar Cham, an intimate bar in Seoul’s Jongno district that has gained international acclaim for its innovative use of traditional Korean spirits, like soju and makgeolli, in modern cocktails. These bars exemplify how Korea is not just keeping up with the world’s best bar scenes but actively redefining its own unique identity.

What’s even more striking is just how young this industry is. Many of Korea’s leading bartenders are still in their early thirties, making it one of the youngest high-level bar scenes in the world. Unlike older, more established cocktail cultures in cities like Tokyo or London, Korea’s bartenders are still shaping their identity—but they’re doing it at an incredible pace. They actively study international techniques, collaborate with global industry leaders, and constantly push each other forward in a highly competitive drive for excellence. This rapid learning and improvement are fueled by a strong sense of community. Bartenders frequently share techniques, support sustainability initiatives, and work closely with local distilleries.

Bars like Zest emphasize collaboration with local artisans and continuous staff development, ensuring that their teams stay ahead of the curve. This interconnectedness is what’s driving the scene forward, pushing it to new levels year after year. With so many incredible bars to choose from, narrowing down a list is nearly impossible – and honestly, unnecessary.

Seoul’s cocktail scene is so diverse and fast-growing that no matter where you go, you’re bound to find something special.

There’s no need for fear of missing out here; the sheer number of top-tier bars far exceeds what any one liver can handle.

Beyond Seoul, places like Gyeongju are shaping their own unique bar culture, blending Korea’s traditional drinking customs with modern influences. While Korea’s cocktail scene may still be young, its ambition and adaptability are proving that it’s a serious player in the global bar industry—and it’s only getting better.

As part of my exploration of Seoul’s vibrant bar scene, I’m launching a series of articles showcasing the standout spots I visited—each offering a unique take on the city’s dynamic cocktail culture. To begin, let’s step into another award-winning hotel bar, part of a group renowned for consistently setting the standard: the Four Seasons. Having already experienced their exceptional bar concepts in Madrid, Budapest, and most recently Kuala Lumpur, I was eager to see how their Seoul outpost would measure up.

Charles H. –  A Timeless Cocktail Experience in Seoul

My first destination was Charles H., an intimate cocktail haven discreetly nestled on the lower level of the Four Seasons Hotel Seoul. I was eager to visit the Bar Manager Odd Strandbakken, whose hospitality and mixology skills have impressed me across various countries. Upon arrival, Odd and his exceptional team welcomed me warmly and crafted a memorable cocktail that set the tone for the evening.

Inspired by the legendary bon vivant and writer Charles H. Baker Jr., the bar exudes an exotic and glamorous ambiance reminiscent of a 1920s speakeasy. The interior features rich mahogany, plush velvet furnishings, and dim lighting, creating an atmosphere of timeless elegance. The menu is a testament to Baker’s global adventures, offering a curated selection of classic and signature cocktails that transport their guests to different eras and locales.

I had some fantastic classic drinks, each with the bar’s unique twist. The Yellow Taxi was a bold take on a Penicillin, featuring a Derrumbes Durango Mezcal, balanced with ginger-honey mustard, lemon, and turmeric, then finished with a float of smoky whisky. The Kowloon Old Fashioned offered an extra umami kick, infused with mushroom butter, sesame, Chinese five-spice Demerara, and aromatic bitters. And then there was the Velvet Martini, a must-try for its incredibly smooth and luxurious texture.

The bar’s commitment to excellence has not gone unnoticed. Charles H. was ranked #7 in Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2022 and proudly holds the title of #1 in Korea. This recognition is a testament to the team’s dedication to the art of fine drinking and their continuous pursuit of innovation.

For those seeking a sophisticated and immersive cocktail experience in Seoul, Charles H. offers an unparalleled journey through history, taste, and elegance.

A heartfelt thank you to Odd Strandbakken and the incredible team at Charles H. for their exceptional hospitality and unwavering commitment to elevating Seoul’s cocktail culture.