Despite holding the status as the nightlife experts of the DPRK, we have yet to write a definitive guide on the best bars in North Korea. Well, have no fear thirsty travelers, as we are about to right that wrong.
Here, in order from 9 to 1, we present the best bars in North Korea, compiled through extremely extensive research, trial, and indeed error.
This is not to be confused with our list of the Best Bars in the World, which does include a few pubs from the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea. Here’s our sidebar on North Korea and the general drinking scene in the country.
Wait, what, they have bars in North Korea?
Yes, they have bars in North Korea! Despite what you might have heard, North Koreans not only like to drink, but are social when they do it (yes, we mean karaoke). And in fact, the drinking and overall Pyongyang-at-night scene has become quite eclectic over the years.
OK, so it’s not exactly Vegas, but your nights will not be wasted when you visit the DPRK, at least with Young Pioneer Tours.
9) Kaesong Folkcustoms Hotel Bar
Sadly one we are unlikely to go back to soon, but boy was it great when it was going. Why did we like it so? Well, first, the rooms here are just ace, which already puts you in a good mood. But the retro bar with its comfy food and super friendly staff was what puts this firmly on the list.
8) Youth Hotel Karaoke Room
Pyongyang’s Youth Hotel was not one of our regular joints, which was a shame, as it has one of the best bars in Pyongyang. Here, their huge karaoke room not only has a bunch of banger tunes, but is the best laid out in the capital.
7) Tumanggang Brewery
The newest entry for us on the best bars in North Korea list! This place was recently opened in Rason. when we visited in February. Not only is the beer here fabulous, but being a brewery means that the beer here is somewhat fresh!
6) Seaman’s Club
The Seaman’s Club in Chongjin was apparently not even open to foreigners, at least until I rocked up there with a slightly inebriated local guide. After this, YPT managed to open this slightly working-man’s club type establishment to the general public. After that, it became a firm favorite on our tours.
5) Yanggakdo Tea House
This place gets on the list for so many reasons, with the primary reason being nostalgia. This is the place most of us stay when we visit the DPRK, so let’s just say there are memories here. Oh, and they brew some truly great beer. All hail The Yanggakdo Hotel!
4) Taedonggang Beer Festival
This is not an actual bar, but hey — for at least one summer this was the place to be. Basically, Taedonggang make great beer, so decided to do their own take on Oktoberfest and, well, it was pretty bloody fun.
3) The Random Access Club
I have only managed to go in here a few times, as alas it is not for tourists, but rather United Nations workers and the like. But that also makes it pretty much the most exclusive bar in town. Real backpacker-type feel and just a groovy place to hang out of a Pyongyang evening.
2) Rakwon Beer Bar
Located by a department store, Rakwon is another place that holds many fond memories for us at YPT. Perhaps the most famous draft beer bar in North Korea, the job here is to work your way through and pretty much try everything they have on offer. Great place to start, or end a night and with their private rooms a firm place to party.
1) The Diplomatic Club
Another place that was supposedly “closed” until YPT came along. The “Diplo”, as it is lovingly referred to, is basically a complex fit with a pool, billiards, a games room, and of course a fine selection of karaoke. Friends and connections have definitely been made in this place.
Like what ya see? Then why not check out our North Korea Tours.
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