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.<\/p>\n
“Even in the cold, people keep coming to the bar for drinks. For Pyongyang residents, beer isn’t just a beverage \u2013 it’s become a vital social activity that keeps pubs busy throughout winter,” a Pyongyang source told Daily NK on Monday.<\/p>\n
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.”<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
Cardholders can buy beer vouchers at Taedonggang for 500 North Korean won per liter, which they then exchange for drinks.<\/p>\n
“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.”<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
“Having access to Taedonggang beer is a Pyongyang privilege, but financial hardship keeps many from enjoying it,” the source said.<\/p>\n
This has led to a black market where struggling families sell their beer vouchers for 2,500-3,000 won per liter \u2013 five to six times the official price.<\/p>\n
“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.”<\/p>\n