Korean drinks have become part of everyday life for many people in Japan. However, finding specific Korean drinks online can still be difficult. This guide to Korean drinks in Japan explains what Omori Mart currently stocks. These options include Jeju Wit Ale from South Korea and a Japanese sudachi-flavoured spirit that offers a soju-style alternative.
We also explain what the catalogue does not currently include. For example, Omori Mart does not stock Korean-brand soju at present. This guide helps Korean residents find available products. It also introduces Japanese readers to Korean drinking traditions.
If you want a soju-style drink, consider Awa no Kaori Sudachi Chu. It offers a Japanese citrus-based alternative for casual meals and gatherings. You can also order it without a Japanese credit card.
This Korean drinks Japan 2026 guide starts with the Korean community and its growing food culture.
Key Takeaway (TL;DR): Korean drinks in Japan are available through Korean grocery stores, restaurants and online retailers. Omori Mart currently lists Jeju Wit Ale and Japanese sudachi chū. However, it does not stock Korean-brand soju. Customers can pay through convenience stores, bank transfer or card. Omori Mart delivers nationwide except Okinawa and offers free shipping on orders above ¥15,000.
Korean Drinks in Japan 2026: 408,700 Korean Residents and the Shin-Okubo Food Scene
Korean drinks have an important place in Japan’s international food culture. South Koreans also represent one of the country’s largest foreign communities.
According to the Immigration Services Agency of Japan (moj.go.jp/isa), Japan recorded 4,281,026 foreign residents at the end of June 2026. South Koreans accounted for approximately 408,700 residents. This figure placed South Korea third among foreign nationalities, after China and Vietnam.
Korean residents live throughout Japan. Major communities include Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya in Aichi Prefecture and Fukuoka.
Tokyo’s Shin-Ōkubo district, also written as Shin-Okubo, remains the best-known centre of Korean food culture in Japan. The area has Korean grocery stores, restaurants and cafés around the station. Consequently, many residents visit the neighbourhood to buy Korean food and drinks.
Korean barbecue, fried chicken, stews and street food have also gained popularity among Japanese diners. As a result, more people want to discover the drinks that accompany these meals. Searches such as “Korean community Japan drinks” and “Korean drinks near me Japan” reflect this interest.
Of course, not everyone drinks alcohol. Many Korean and Japanese households also serve barley tea, soft drinks and sparkling water. Omori Mart includes alcohol-free options in its wider catalogue. One example is Estrella Galicia alcohol-free beer.
Korean Alcohol Tokyo: What Is and Is Not Stocked
People searching for Korean alcohol in Tokyo or elsewhere in Japan should understand the current Omori Mart selection.
The catalogue lists two relevant products:
- Jeju Wit Ale, a Korean craft beer from Jeju Island.
- Awa no Kaori Sudachi Chu, a Japanese sudachi-flavoured spirit.
However, Omori Mart does not currently stock Korean-brand soju. The catalogue also does not list other Korean spirits at present [STOCK: confirm on product page].
If you need a particular Korean soju brand, visit a Korean grocery store. Shin-Ōkubo offers several places to explore. Always check individual shop availability before travelling.
Jeju Wit Ale: Jeju Beer Company’s Belgian-Style Wheat Ale and Island Ingredients
Jeju Wit Ale is a Belgian-style wheat ale from Jeju Island, South Korea. It represents the Korean craft beer selection in the Omori Mart catalogue.
The product information identifies Jeju Beer Company as the brewer. It also describes the beer as a witbier made with island ingredients. However, confirm the producer, ingredients and any citrus or spice notes on the official brand website before publication.
[BREWER: confirm Jeju Beer Company as the producer]
[INGREDIENTS: confirm island ingredients and flavour notes on the brand website]
A witbier is a Belgian-style white wheat beer. Brewers typically create a hazy appearance and a soft, refreshing character. Some versions also feature light spice notes. Serve this style chilled for the best experience.
Check the bottle or official brand website for the exact alcohol content.
For Japanese readers, a wheat ale offers a different experience from mainstream lagers. Its style may appeal to drinkers who enjoy Japanese craft breweries such as COEDO in Saitama or Echigo Beer in Niigata.
Japan’s craft beer industry expanded after 1994. That year, a change to the Liquor Tax Act lowered the minimum production volume required for a brewing licence. The National Tax Agency (nta.go.jp) provides information about Japan’s alcohol regulations.
You can also read our dedicated guide to Jeju Wit Ale in Japan.
If you want to buy Korean beer in Japan beyond familiar mainstream brands, Jeju Wit Ale offers an interesting option. Searches such as “Jeju Wit Ale Japan”, “Jeju Beer Japan” and “Korean craft beer Japan” can help you discover this product.
Check the product page for the current pack size and price.
[PACK: confirm on product page]
[PRICE: confirm on product page]
Readers searching for the best Korean beer in Japan should also understand the current selection. Jeju Wit Ale is the Korean beer listed in the Omori Mart catalogue. The store does not currently list popular Korean mainstream lagers.
Soju in Korea and Japan: What It Is and Why Korean-Brand Soju Is Not Stocked
Soju is one of South Korea’s best-known alcoholic drinks. Traditionally, producers made it through distillation. Today, many brands also produce diluted versions with lower alcohol content.
People commonly enjoy soju with Korean meals, especially barbecue and shared dishes. However, different brands use different ingredients and production methods.
Omori Mart does not currently stock Korean-brand soju. We want to make this distinction clear rather than suggest that an alternative Japanese product is authentic Korean soju.
[DETAILS: confirm soju production methods and typical ABV from an official or recognised reference source]
The terminology can also cause confusion in Japan. Japanese drinkers know shōchū, a traditional distilled spirit made from ingredients such as barley, sweet potato and rice.
Although soju and shōchū share similarities, they belong to different drinking traditions. Their production methods and flavours can also differ.
The Omori Mart catalogue includes a Japanese product with the word “soju” in its name. However, Awa no Kaori Sudachi Chu is a Japanese sudachi-flavoured spirit. It is not Korean soju.
Therefore, anyone searching for “soju Japan” should check the product’s origin and description before ordering.
For authentic Korean soju, explore Korean grocery stores, particularly around Shin-Ōkubo. Some mainstream supermarkets also carry selected Korean brands. However, stock varies between shops and locations.
We prefer to explain the catalogue clearly. This way, customers can find the right product without confusing Japanese alternatives with Korean originals.
Japanese Alternatives: Sudachi Chū and Light Spirits for Soju-Style Serves
Sudachi chū is a Japanese spirit-based drink flavoured with sudachi. This small green citrus fruit comes from Tokushima Prefecture.
For customers looking for a soju-style drink, Awa no Kaori Sudachi Chu offers the closest option in the Omori Mart catalogue.
You can find the product here:
Awa no Kaori Sudachi Chu (720ml x 6 Bottles)
The product page lists six 720ml bottles per pack. That gives you 4.32 litres in total.
Check the product label and online description for its alcohol content, base spirit and recommended serving methods.
[ABV: confirm on label]
[DETAILS: confirm base spirit and flavour on the product page]
Also, verify the stated Tokushima origin of sudachi before publication.
Sudachi chū suits people who enjoy clean, citrus-led drinks. You can serve it over ice, mix it with soda or add cold water. These options create a casual drinking experience that works well with shared meals.
However, sudachi chū does not taste exactly like Korean soju. It also does not replace the traditional Korean drink. Instead, it offers a Japanese alternative for people who want a light spirit at the table.
Other light spirits in the Omori Mart catalogue, including gin and vodka, can also work in mixed drinks. Try them with soda and ice if you prefer a simple serve. Always check the alcohol content on each bottle before mixing.
How to Drink Korean Drinks in Japan
Korean drinking culture places great importance on sharing food and drinks. Friends, relatives and colleagues often gather around one table. They pour drinks for one another and enjoy the meal together.
If you choose Jeju Wit Ale, chill it in the refrigerator for several hours before serving. A glass allows you to appreciate its appearance and aroma.
For Awa no Kaori Sudachi Chu, try serving it over ice or with soda.
Korean drinking etiquette also offers interesting cultural traditions. People commonly say geonbae (건배), the Korean equivalent of the Japanese kanpai, before drinking.
It is polite to pour drinks for others rather than filling your own glass. When receiving a drink, many people hold the glass with both hands.
Korean drinking etiquette also encourages respect for older people. For example, younger drinkers may turn their heads slightly away when drinking in front of an elder.
[CUSTOM: have a Korean reader check this etiquette wording before publication]
Japanese diners may recognise some of these customs. At an izakaya, colleagues and friends also pour drinks for one another and observe shared drinking traditions.
Food pairings make these occasions even better. Korean barbecue, including grilled pork belly and marinated beef, works well with a refreshing wheat ale.
You can also enjoy Korean fried chicken, tteokbokki and kimchi stew with a cold drink.
Fortunately, Japanese supermarkets make it easy to prepare these meals at home. Aeon and Ito-Yokado sell ingredients such as pork belly, kimchi, lettuce, sesame oil and rice in many locations.
For a quicker meal, visit 7-Eleven, FamilyMart or Lawson. These convenience stores often offer karaage fried chicken and kimchi side dishes.
Japanese yakiniku restaurants also provide a familiar dining experience for people who enjoy Korean barbecue.
Several occasions offer opportunities to share Korean drinks. These include:
- Seollal: Korean Lunar New Year celebrations.
- Chuseok: The Korean harvest festival.
- Birthdays: Family meals and gatherings with friends.
- Farewell parties: Occasions to celebrate colleagues and friendships.
- Bōnenkai: Japanese year-end gatherings with friends or coworkers.
Remember to include guests who do not drink alcohol. Barley tea, sparkling water and alcohol-free beer make thoughtful alternatives.
Drinking Responsibly in Japan
Japan has strict laws against drinking and driving. According to the National Police Agency (npa.go.jp), driving with a breath-alcohol concentration of 0.15 mg per litre or more constitutes an offence.
Passengers, vehicle owners and people who provide alcohol to drivers can also face legal consequences. Japanese law also prohibits cycling under the influence of alcohol.
Therefore, plan your transport before drinking. Eat alongside your drinks, take your time and keep water on the table.
You should also follow your local recycling rules when disposing of empty bottles. Tokyo’s wards, Osaka and Nagoya may have different collection systems. Check your city or ward website for the correct instructions.
Somaek and Mixed Serves: How Korean Beer-and-Spirit Drinks Translate to Japanese Ingredients
Somaek is a popular Korean mixed drink that combines soju and beer. Its name joins the Korean words for soju and beer.
People often enjoy somaek at Korean restaurants, social gatherings and barbecue meals. The combination creates a fizzy drink with a stronger alcoholic content than beer alone.
Since Omori Mart does not stock Korean-brand soju, we cannot recommend a recipe that requires authentic Korean soju.
However, you can explore a similar idea with Japanese ingredients. For example, pair a light lager with a small measure of a neutral spirit. Keep the proportions moderate and check the alcohol content before mixing.
[RECIPE: confirm whether the editor wishes to include a serving suggestion]
The main appeal of somaek comes from its combination of fizz and spirit. Japanese drinking culture offers another familiar option: the highball.
A Japanese highball usually combines whisky and soda. It remains a popular choice at izakayas throughout the country.
Similarly, you can enjoy sudachi chū with soda and ice. Its citrus character makes it suitable for a light mixed drink.
People searching for “somaek Japan” often want to recreate this casual Korean drinking experience with ingredients available locally.
However, mixed drinks can make it difficult to track alcohol consumption. Use small measures, eat alongside your drink and stop when you have had enough. Never pressure anyone to drink quickly or compete with others.
Ordering from Omori Mart: Konbini Payment, Bank Transfer or Card
Omori Mart makes online alcohol shopping convenient for customers across Japan. You can order Korean-origin drinks and Japanese alternatives through its online store.
The payment options include:
- Convenience store payment.
- Bank transfer.
- Credit or debit card, subject to checkout availability.
For convenience store payments, customers can use FamilyMart, 7-Eleven or Lawson.
You do not need a Japanese credit card to use the konbini payment option. This can help international residents who have recently moved to Japan and do not yet have a Japanese bank card.
The exact payment steps depend on the current checkout process.
[KONBINI PAYMENT STEPS: confirm current flow with editor]
Here is a quick guide to choosing from the current catalogue:
- For Korean craft beer: Choose Jeju Wit Ale. Check the product page for its current pack size.
- For a soju-style drink: Consider Awa no Kaori Sudachi Chu (720ml x 6 bottles). Remember that it is Japanese, not Korean soju.
- For authentic Korean soju: Visit Korean grocery stores because Omori Mart does not currently stock it.
- For mixed groups: Add an alcohol-free drink for guests who prefer not to consume alcohol.
- For free shipping: Combine products to reach the ¥15,000 order threshold.
You can also browse the wider selection of imported beer delivered in Japan. This makes it easier to combine Korean products with beers from other countries.
Omori Mart delivers across Japan except Okinawa Prefecture. Check the checkout information for the current delivery estimate.
[DELIVERY TIME: confirm current lead time]
According to the National Tax Agency (nta.go.jp), Japan applies a standard consumption tax rate of 10%. Alcoholic beverages do not qualify for the reduced 8% consumption tax rate.
Japanese retailers generally display tax-inclusive prices. Therefore, check the product page for the final amount before completing your order.
Bottles can make a delivery heavy. Choose a delivery date when someone can receive the package. If you miss the delivery, follow the carrier’s redelivery instructions.
Finally, remember that Japanese law sets the legal drinking age at 20. Omori Mart sells alcoholic beverages only to customers aged 20 and over.
More Korean and East Asian Drinks: Jeju Wit Ale and Related Guides
Omori Mart currently offers a small Korean drinks selection. We describe that selection clearly so customers can understand which products they can order.
Our dedicated Jeju Wit Ale guide provides more information about this Korean wheat beer. Readers interested in other East Asian drinks can also explore our guides to Chinese beer, Taiwanese beer and Hong Kong beer.
The wider imported beer collection brings together products from different countries. It also helps customers discover new drinks while shopping online in Japan.
Whether you are planning a Seollal gathering in Tokyo, a barbecue evening in Osaka or a quiet dinner in Nagoya, you can explore Korean drinks through local retailers and online stores.
Omori Mart offers convenient payment options at FamilyMart, 7-Eleven and Lawson. You can also choose bank transfer or card payment. Orders above ¥15,000 qualify for free shipping across Japan, except Okinawa.
Omori Mart sells alcoholic drinks only to customers aged 20 and over. Please drink responsibly and never drink and drive.
Related Reading
FAQ: Korean Drinks in Japan
Is Korean soju sold at Omori Mart?
No. Omori Mart does not currently stock Korean-brand soju. The catalogue includes a Japanese sudachi-flavoured spirit with the word “soju” in its name. However, this is a Japanese product, not authentic Korean soju. For Korean brands, check grocery stores in areas such as Shin-Ōkubo.
What Korean beer can I buy in Japan from Omori Mart?
Omori Mart currently lists Jeju Wit Ale, a Belgian-style wheat ale from Jeju Island in South Korea. It represents the Korean craft beer selection in the catalogue. Check the product page for the latest pack size and price. Also, confirm the alcohol content on the bottle before ordering.
Can I order Korean drinks in Japan without a Japanese credit card?
Yes. Omori Mart offers convenience store payments at FamilyMart, 7-Eleven and Lawson. You can also use bank transfer or card payment. Therefore, you do not need a Japanese credit card to place an order through the konbini option. Customers must be at least 20 years old.
What can I drink instead of soju in Japan?
You can try a Japanese sudachi chū such as Awa no Kaori. This spirit-based drink offers a citrus flavour and works well over ice or with soda. However, it does not taste exactly like Korean soju. Always check the alcohol content and enjoy it responsibly.
Does Omori Mart deliver Korean drinks to Tokyo, Osaka and Nagoya?
Yes. Omori Mart delivers across Japan except Okinawa Prefecture. Customers in Tokyo, Osaka and Nagoya can place orders online. Orders above ¥15,000 qualify for free shipping. Since bottles can make packages heavy, choose a delivery date when someone can receive your order.
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