Korean Dictionary
How to say "Solo Drinking" in Korean
“Solo Drinking” in Korean is 혼술 (pronounced "honsul").
혼술
honsul
Usage & Context
Drinking alcohol alone without company. Part of the trend of solo activities becoming more socially acceptable in Korea.
Example Sentence
나 혼술 좋아해.
I like drinking alone.
How to use 혼술 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Solo Drinking” is 혼술, romanized as honsul.
Usage tip
Use slang only with friends or people who already speak casually with you. It can sound rude in formal Korean.
Common mistake
Do not rely only on the English meaning. Read the Korean example sentence and notice the particles, word order, and politeness level around 혼술.
Pronunciation Guide
혼 (hon) sounds like 'hone' as in 'honeymoon'. 술 (sul) rhymes with 'pool' but with an 's' sound, like 'sool'. The two syllables are pronounced distinctly and evenly.
More Example Sentences
Deciding on evening plans after a long day.
오늘 너무 피곤해서 집에서 혼술이나 할까 봐.
I'm so tired today, I might just drink alone at home.
Describing a favorite pastime for relaxation.
드라마 보면서 혼술하는 게 요즘 내 낙이야.
Drinking alone while watching dramas is my joy these days.
Seeking recommendations for a quiet place to drink alone.
혼술하기 좋은 바를 찾고 있어.
I'm looking for a good bar for solo drinking.
Cultural Context
Similar to '혼밥' (honbap), '혼술' (honsul) is a compound of '혼자' (honja, alone) and '술' (sul, alcohol). Drinking culture in Korea is traditionally very communal, often involving group outings, pouring drinks for others, and rounds of soju or beer. Therefore, '혼술' was once viewed as unusual or even a sign of loneliness. However, with the rise of individualism and a desire for personal space, '혼술' has become a popular and accepted activity, especially among younger generations. Many convenience stores and even some bars now cater to solo drinkers, reflecting this shift. K-dramas often depict characters enjoying '혼술' as a way to unwind or reflect.
Editorial note
We flag slang like 혼술 for register and audience, since Korean slang can shift quickly and may sound rude outside close friendships.
Reviewed by Min-jung Park, Korean Language Teacher. Updated May 31, 2026. See our editorial standards.
Common Phrases
혼술하기 딱 좋은 날씨네.
Perfect weather for solo drinking.
혼술할 때 뭐 마셔?
What do you drink when you drink alone?
나 오늘 혼술할 거야.
I'm going to drink alone today.
Related Expressions
혼밥
honbap
Solo eating
혼영
honyeong
Solo movie watching
혼자 마시다
honja masida
To drink alone (more literal)
술 한잔하다
sul hanjan hada
To have a drink (general)
More Slang Words
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