Not drinking, or wanting to slow down, is completely normal and accepted in Korea — but because pouring for others is such an ingrained social habit, it helps to have the right phrase ready so your “no” is understood clearly and doesn’t come across as rude.

How the audio works: tap the speaker button on any phrase and your device’s built-in Korean voice will say it out loud — no app or download needed.

If You Don’t Drink at All

Clear and Simple

jeoneun sureul mot masyeoyo

I can’t drink alcohol

Health-Related

geongang ttaemune an masyeoyo

I don’t drink for health reasons

If You’re Just Pacing Yourself

Softer Decline

oneureun gwaenchanayo

I’m okay for today (a gentle “no, thank you” for this occasion)

Asking for Less

jogeumman juseyo

Just a little, please

A group of friends celebrating with beer mugs indoors

A confident, natural-sounding decline is respected far more than an awkward, hesitant one.

A Practical, Widely Accepted Excuse

The Universal Out

unjeonhaeya dwaeyo

I have to drive (a very commonly accepted reason to decline)

“운전해야 돼요” (I have to drive) is one of the most reliably accepted reasons to decline in Korean drinking culture — practical, undeniable, and never questioned further. It’s worth keeping in your back pocket even if you’re just looking for an easy way out.

Saying No Confidently Is Its Own Skill

A phrase said naturally, without hesitation, is far more effective than a nervous one. Here’s the step-by-step system we recommend for building that confidence.

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