'Soju artist' publishes illustrated guide to Korean drinking culture in English

Kim Wan-jun, a "soju artist" who goes by the name Funnyjun, holds up a copy of the English version of his book, "How to Drink Soju," March 13. Courtesy of Bereket Alemayehu

Kim Wan-jun, who calls himself a “soju artist,” published the English translation of his book, “How to Drink Soju: A Guide to K-Drinking Culture & Games,” last month. The 300-page book, with more than 200 illustrations, provides an in-depth look at the history of soju, a Korean alcoholic beverage that is traditionally distilled, as well as exploring its cultural significance and customs surrounding it.

Kim, a self-proclaimed upcycling artist widely known as “Funnyjun,” has been documenting Korea’s drinking culture since 2014 and sharing his insights with audiences in Korea and abroad.

The Korean version of the book sold out quickly upon its 2021 release. Now the first English print run of 1,000 copies can be purchased at bookstores in Korea as well as distributed directly from him to readers, as he wants to continue promoting it independently. The translation has been reviewed by Jean-Pierre Polonovski, You Yeji and Evan Barringer.

Kim did almost all the work in creating the book himself. He wrote the text, illustrated more than 200 drawings, designed the layout and edited the book using digital tools. The result is a visually rich guide to Korean drinking culture, offering simple illustrations and detailed instructions. One section outlines 10 steps on how to drink soju properly and socialize with others, highlighting traditional etiquette such as pouring drinks with two hands and showing respect to elders at the table.

How did the project start? Kim claims that soju has become a recognizable symbol of Korean culture worldwide through films, dramas and global dining trends. Yet, despite its popularity, there was almost no comprehensive book explaining soju and the cultural etiquette surrounding it. “Soju is the most popular alcohol in Korea and one of the best-selling liquors in the world,” he said. “You can see it everywhere, at every restaurant, every pub, but surprisingly, there were no books about it.”

With the catchy motto “A Glass of Soju, Bridging the World,” his book emphasizes the importance of understanding Korea’s unique drinking culture.

“Korean drinking culture is not just about how to drink, but about a process of joyful consideration practiced through mutual respect, so that everyone can enjoy the final glass together. In Korea, drinking soju is not simply about consuming alcohol. Every gesture of pouring and receiving a drink carries consideration and respect. This etiquette extends naturally into Korean table manners and daily social behavior. Through sharing a drink, we learn how to respect one another — and sometimes we even see a glimpse of someone’s personality or social attitude,” he said.

“What feels completely normal to Koreans may appear unfamiliar to foreigners: how to pour, how to receive a drink, how to subtly check whether someone’s drink is empty. These small actions reflect a deeper philosophy behind Korean social life. This is why understanding K-drinking culture is essential for understanding Korea.”

Kim’s interest in soju began more than a decade ago. Around 2014, he found himself drinking the beverage frequently and began wondering about its deeper cultural meaning. After seven years of research, he published the original Korean version of the book.

To promote his work, Kim began organizing exhibitions showcasing the illustrations from his book. So far, he has held more than 20 exhibitions across Korea and internationally, including in Japan, Europe and Southeast Asia.

Interestingly, the book received very different reactions from Korean and international readers.

He said that many Koreans are more hesitant to embrace his work, as the soju drinking customs described in the book are already part of their everyday life. On the other hand, foreign readers are more open to learning about Korean society through its culture.

Kim believes sharing meals and drinks is one of the most important ways to understand Korean culture. “Koreans know how to do these things, but they often don’t know why they do them. However, foreign readers responded eagerly. Many said the book answered questions they had long wondered about but felt hesitant to ask. They know Koreans have many manners when drinking, but they didn’t know the details, so my book with many illustrations makes it easy to understand,” he said.

“When people want to build relationships in Korea, whether friendship, business or diplomacy, they often share a meal. Through eating and drinking, you understand people’s manners, their respect and somehow their character.”

Kim’s professional background is in media and communication. He was a former reporter and broadcasting professional, and later worked for a decade at Sungkyunkwan University, where he managed public relations.

He later appeared on the KBS show “Soju Rhapsody,” which later became available worldwide on Netflix, where he can be seen discussing the social rituals surrounding soju and the inspiration behind his illustrated guide.

There will be a release party for the English version of the book on Sunday. The event, which will include an immersive K-drinking session as well as art, music and soju tastings, will take place at Hanstyle Studio in central Seoul’s Itaewon neighborhood. Kim will give a book talk at 5 p.m. Several musicians, including Xen Sapphire, the Lavelies, Rob Nichols and Jazzphai, will perform live music during the event.

Kim will also show his work in collaboration with HBC Art Club, in an exhibition that will run from March 19 to April 11.

Follow @funnyjun_on Instagram for more information.

Bereket Alemayehu is an Ethiopian photo artist, social activist and writer based in Seoul. He’s also the co-founder of Hanokers, a refugee-led social initiative, and a freelance contributor for Pressenza Press Agency.