Pyongyang’s Taedonggang Beer Hall is drawing steady crowds despite winter weather, with customers to the bar rising amid New Year festivities, Daily NK has learned.
“Even in the cold, people keep coming to the bar for drinks. For Pyongyang residents, beer isn’t just a beverage – it’s become a vital social activity that keeps pubs busy throughout winter,” a Pyongyang source told Daily NK on Monday.
The bar has evolved into a cultural hub where small groups gather to build friendships over beer. “It’s more than just serving drinks,” the source said. “It’s creating a space where citizens forge lasting connections.”
Access to the bar requires a “beer card.” Adult men in Pyongyang receive these cards from their neighborhood watch unit, entitling them to purchase five liters of beer monthly.
The cards are distributed to families in late December based on the number of adult men, excluding those serving in the military or stationed abroad.
Cardholders can buy beer vouchers at Taedonggang for 500 North Korean won per liter, which they then exchange for drinks.
“The bar’s popularity among Pyongyang residents comes down to its reasonable prices,” the source explained. “While many can’t afford noodles at Okryu-gwan Restaurant, Taedonggang’s beer remains within reach of ordinary citizens.”
However, not everyone uses their full monthly allocation. While some enjoy after-work drinks at the bar, others find even a single beer stretches their budget.
“Having access to Taedonggang beer is a Pyongyang privilege, but financial hardship keeps many from enjoying it,” the source said.
This has led to a black market where struggling families sell their beer vouchers for 2,500-3,000 won per liter – five to six times the official price.
“The voucher trade has been around for years, and people generally accept it,” the source said. “But they keep quiet about it since getting caught means punishment.”
January 09, 2025 at 07:04AM
by DailyNK(North Korean Media)