Recent data reveals a significant shift in adult alcohol consumption patterns in South Korea. Men’s monthly drinking rates—defined as consuming alcohol once a month or more—have fallen sharply over the past decade, marking the largest decline in 10 years. Meanwhile, women’s rates have steadily climbed, with 40-something men recording the highest levels in 2024.
Overall Trends from 2015 to 2024
Statistics Korea’s analysis of annual surveys shows men’s monthly drinking rate dropped from 61.8% in 2015 to 56.7% in 2024. In contrast, women’s rate rose from 31.2% to 33.4%. Despite the gap narrowing, men maintain higher consumption across all age groups.
Sharp Declines Among Younger Men
Men in their 20s saw the steepest fall, with rates plunging from 62.2% to 51.6%. Those in their 30s experienced a similar trend, decreasing from 69.6% to 57.2%. Men in their 40s bucked the overall downward trajectory, reaching a peak of 65.3% in 2024—barely changed from 64.7% in 2015 and the highest across demographics.
Women’s Consumption Peaks in 30s
Women’s drinking rates increased notably in their 30s, surging from 33.8% to 42.1%. For women in their 20s, rates hit a high of 44.0% in 2024, closely matching 44.3% in 2014.
Frequency Insights
Among men, 31.0% report drinking once a week, the most common frequency. Women most frequently cite once a month at 14.8%.
A Statistics Korea official noted, “Over the past decade, men’s monthly drinking rates have declined overall, while women’s have increased, particularly among those in their 30s. Even so, men’s rates remain the highest across sectors, with 40s men leading at 65.3% in 2024.”
