Selling liquor by glass to be allowed from next month

Restaurants will be allowed to serve liquor by the glass starting next month in a significant shift in alcohol sales regulations.

The Ministry of Economy and Finance pre-announced legislation regarding revisions to the enforcement decree of liquor licenses on Wednesday. The revision focuses on expanding the scope of exceptions to the cancellation of liquor licenses.

Under the proposed legislation, the sale of liquor servings by the glass will be allowed. The revision allows for selling liquor such as soju, a Korean distilled alcoholic drink, in units smaller than bottles.

Previously, the selling of a single glass of liquor was permitted only through internal regulations of the National Tax Service, lacking a clear legal foundation. However, the upcoming revision will establish a legal basis for such sales.

Until 2022, selling all alcoholic beverages by the glass, except cocktails and draft beer, was considered illegal under liquor tax laws.

However, recognizing the disparity between this regulation and the prevailing lifestyle of individuals, with demands for a small amount of liquor, the National Tax Service amended the rule in January last year to permit the sale of all alcoholic beverages in individual servings.

The number of self-employed individuals selling small servings of liquor, particularly soju, is expected to rise amid increasing liquor prices.

“Sometimes, I want just a glass of a drink especially when I’m dining alone at a restaurant. Having the option to order a glass of soju would be really convenient,” an office worker in his 30s, surnamed Yoon, said.

However, concerns have also emerged among consumers regarding the revised legislation. Some express apprehension saying that increased sales of alcohol in smaller portions could lead to more frequent recycling of leftover drinks.

Moreover, there are worries about hygiene issues, as it becomes difficult to ascertain the precise source of the alcohol when sold in small servings.