07 Jan
I’ll admit it—I’ve recently developed a bit of an obsession with wine bars in Korea. It’s truly not my fault, there are just so many options for every palette and vibe you could want. While wine can be more expensive in Korea due to the import costs, I have found a few bars that strike the right balance of price and atmosphere. So whether it’s a cozy, chill glass of wine during a catch up with coworkers, or a deep dive into the natural wines, there is truly a spot that suits all your wine needs.
BARBOO
Located near Itaewon exit 4, BARBOO is my go-to for enjoying wine in style. Its sleek interiors and curated wine list make it perfect for a girls night or first date. What sets Bar Boo apart is its knack for offering rare and bold natural wines that are hard to find elsewhere like their White France Vermentino that I can’t get enough of. They have cute small plates to share like burrata cheese and salted truffle ice cream which complement the wine beautifully. They also have a balcony and cantilevered windows on the main floor that are open all summer long which lets you take in the view of the city. For a taste of Seoul’s effortlessly cool wine culture, Bar Boo should be at the top of your list for wine bars in Korea.
Geumnam-Vin
When I first went to Gumnam-Vin in Gangnam, I totally fell in love. The atmosphere is super moody but warm and the soft jazz they have playing was perfect. I also loved that you can order natural wine at this spot. I recommend the Contradiction Pinot Noir which has a nice note of strawberries and cherries. Geumnam-Vin is a little more on the pricey side, but for a special occasion it’s a great choice. They have an excellent food selection so this is a place where you can stay and enjoy your wine over the whole night with delicious anju (small side dishes)!
D. Other
This spot is located in the trendy Yeonam-dong neighborhood behind Hongdae, but you won’t have to pay trendy prices. Their house red and white are some of the most affordable I have found in Korea and you don’t have to sacrifice the vibe for a lower cost. They offer fun side plate snacks like buttered popcorn, chocolate cake, and frozen grapes. My friends and I love starting our night here because they place great lo fi techno music and the bartender is very friendly (and cute!) If you are in Mapo-gu, D. Other is definitely a great place to check out.
Even if you are just getting into wine, these spots are your passport to discovering all sides of Seoul’s wine culture. So, grab a glass and enjoy the journey—wine bars in Korea are waiting for you!
Michelle Duquette, Marketing Assistant
Michelle Duquette is from Toronto, Canada and moved to South Korea in 2015. She has a Bachelors in English literature and a Masters in ESL Education. Michelle has taught at Creverse campuses in Gangneung, Songpa, and Mokdong and currently works as a CDI and April Trainer. Michelle never set out to be a teacher but fell in love with Korean culture and the excitement of being in the classroom. Michelle lives in Seoul with her partner and two cats, Cherry and Frost.