Beer topped the list of per capita liquor consumption in 2013 at 148.7 bottles, followed by soju (62.5), traditional liquor (33), hard liquor (2.7) and wine (2.2), according to a report released by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs and the Korea Agricultural Marketing Corporation.

Compared to 2010, beer consumption rose by 8.9 bottles and soju consumption dropped by 3.9. bottles.

The ministry analyzed that more people now prefer to drink liquor with lower alcohol content, making beer more appealing.

The wide range of foreign beer brands imported due to the numerous free trade agreements is another reason why beer consumption has increased.


koreaherald@heraldcorp.com