What is there to drink?

Ok, even though none of you have asked, Im sure there must be a few of you that are wondering what there is to drink over here. To be honest, theres not much difference except for one local specialty, but heres a run down of what Im drinking in Korea.

Up first is Korea's specialty: Soju. Some people call this the devil's nectar and it is dangerous for two reasons: first, it is extremely strong; second, it is only one dollar a bottle. This makes it both appealing and deadly but it is a must try when visiting or living in Korea. It tastes like a mix of cheap vodka and gasoline, but be forewarned, it may taste delicious, but Soju makes you do stupid stuff, like fall down your stairs.

Next, drinks in a bucket. There is a bar called Monkey Beach in Seoul that prides itself on pouring a 10 shot drink in a children's sand bucket for the low price of twelve dollars. On top of that, they also have nightly competitions to win more alcohol, including beating their mascot in rock-paper-scissors and shooting baskets for bottles of liquor. I have only been their twice, but both times a member of our group has won one of the bottles which is exciting at the time, but stupid in retrospect since you have been drinking buckets of liquor all night. Still, its a great bar and Ive had a blast both times Ive been there.

Now, for the randoms. First up is a can filled with a mixture of vodka and lemon called KGB. Ive only had one sip of this drink since Ive been here but that was plenty (too sweet), even though I work with some people that love them.
Next is a vodka from a place Im certain none of you have visited: Kazakhstan. Before this vodka, the only thing I knew from Kazakhstan was Holly's sister, but I have to say they do make a tasty beverage. I got to try this thanks to a Korean friend, but I have no idea where he found it since I havent seen it in any of the liquor stores here, but if you happen to come across it, I suggest you try it.

Finally, my bread and butter: beer. Korea brews 3 beers in mass quantity: Cass, Hite and OB. Im partial to Cass, but all three are served in sizes ranging from single cans to kegs. However, the stores sell one size unknown to all of you in the states: the 1.6 liter (thats just over 54oz to those not in the know). This is the biggest quantity sold for personal consumption and comes in bottles about as tall as your shoe.

And, thankfully, there is always the King of Beers, Budweiser. This is sold at most bars for the same price as Cass and Hite and you rest assured that I buy American when given the choice (yes, I know Anheuser Busch is owned by InBev now, but its still American to me).

Heres to having fun and drinking responsibly.