Korea's drinking culture is filled with games and activities that make special moments with friends, family, and colleagues even more enjoyable. Recently, BLACKPINK's Rose collaborated with pop star Bruno Mars on the song "APT," which was inspired by one of Korea's popular drinking games, the Apart Game(Apart means Apartment). In this game, players shout "Apart" while raising the "floor" level one by one, making it a lighthearted game perfect for drinking with friends. Rose found fun and energy in this game, which led her to create this song. In Korea, there are many drinking games designed to lighten the mood and add excitement to gatherings. Along with the Apart Game, try out some of the popular Korean drinking games and experience the unique atmosphere of Korea's drinking culture!
1. Apart Game
The Apart Game is one of the most beloved drinking games in Korea. This game requires 4 to 10 participants normally. First, players sit in a circle and stack both hands on top of each other in the center of the table. These stacked hands symbolize the "floors" of an apartment building. The game begins with everyone chanting, "Apart, Apart!" Then, the leader calls out a specific number, and the person with their hands on that floor level has to take a penalty. Although the rules are simple, each new floor level adds a layer of suspense, making the game even more exciting for the party.
[Let's listen to Rose's new song "APT"]
Rose&Bruno Mars-APT
2. Nunchi Game (Quick-Wit Game)
The Nunchi Game is a simple but concentration-heavy game that tests players' quick-wittiness. Participants must immediately copy the actions of the leader, and anyone who hesitates or does something different gets caught and faces a penalty. For example, if the leader suddenly stands up or tears a piece of tissue, the point is to see who reacts the fastest. This lighthearted, humorous game creates a fun atmosphere and is a popular choice for experiencing Korean drinking culture. It's easy to play anywhere, making it a great recommendation for parties as well.
3. Son Byung Ho Game (Finger Game)
The Son Byung Ho Game starts with each participant holding up five fingers. Players take turns stating a characteristic, and anyone who fits that description must put down one finger. For example, a player might say, "Put down a finger if you've dyed your hair!" or "Put down a finger if you wear glasses!" The first person to put down all five fingers loses and receives a penalty. This game is a fun way for friends to get to know each other better and spark conversation. It's also popular not only for drinking gatherings but for a variety of other party settings as well.
4. Baskin-Robbins 31 Game
The rule of this game is simple : the person who says the 31st number receives a penalty. Players take turns, each able to say up to three consecutive numbers. For example, the first player might say "1, 2, 3," and the next player would continue with "4, 5," and so on. The game speeds up as it goes, building tension, and the player who is left to say "31" after "29" and "30" is penalized. Thanks to its straightforward rules, this game is easy for anyone to join, making it a great choice for beginners too.
5. Strawberry Game
The Strawberry Game is a rhythm game that follows a repeating four-beat cycle. The game begins with everyone saying "Strawberry, strawberry, strawberry, strawberry." When the leader says "Strawberry," the next player responds with "Strawberry, Strawberry," and each subsequent player increases the count until reaching eight time. After reaching eight, it resets to one, and any player who fails to keep the beat receives a penalty. This rhythm game is full of tension, where a good sense of rhythm is essential, adding a lively and energetic atmosphere to the group.
The Enjoyment of Korean Drinking Games
We've introduced a few fun drinking games commonly enjoyed at Korean gatherings, including the popular "Apart Game." These Korean drinking games not only enhance the fun and atmosphere of drinking occasions, helping people bond and feel closer, but they also offer entertainment for friends, colleagues, or family members to enjoy together indoors while on trips. Through these games, foreigners can experience Korean drinking culture both directly and indirectly, providing an interesting cultural experience. These games are highly recommended not only for drinking gatherings but also as party games for a variety of events. Offering a chance to experience different aspects of Korean play culture, these Korean drinking games are a perfect way to have fun with friends over a drink tonight!
